Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Sher Afzal Marwat has expressed concern over the recent statement by the army’s media wing, which shows that issues related to Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hamid have become a challenge for the party. have been
His remarks came hours after the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced that the former spy chief had been formally charged with various charges including indulging in political activities and violating the Official Secrets Act. .
The media affairs wing of the army said that on August 12, a Field General Court Martial (FGCM) process was initiated against the retired general under the provisions of the Pakistan Army Act.
The 53-year-old politician from Lucky Marwat compared General Faiz to General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa, saying: “General Faiz has been equally harmful to us. His close relationship with PTI made us pay the price during the regime change operation.
Marwat while talking to Geo News program “Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Saath” said that he believes that Faiz has not benefited the party because of him the party is embroiled in the current crisis.
On August 15, the PTI founder – three days after it was announced that the ex-serviceman had been arrested – distanced himself and his party from the ex-army officer, saying, “My Faiz There is no connection.”
If the army wants accountability of General Faiz. [then] He should go ahead and do it,” Khan said while talking to reporters at Adiala Jail, adding that it was an internal army matter.
While welcoming Faiz’s case, he said it is good that the army has started the process of internal accountability. He, however, urged the military to ensure that the accountability process should be across the board.
General Faiz’s role in May 9 riots under investigation: ISPR
The army’s media wing said the former spy master’s role in creating agitation and unrest, including the May 9 riots, is also being investigated.
The events of May 9 refer to the violent protests that erupted in the country last year following the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan in a corruption case.
During the riots, alleged supporters of the PTI founder vandalized and attacked public property, including military installations, prompting the country’s civil-military leadership to prosecute the rioters under the Army Act.
Apart from PTI founder Imran, dozens of other party leaders are involved in cases related to the May 9 tragedy.
In a statement today, the ISPR said: “During the process, Lt Gen Faiz Hamid (retd)’s involvement in incidents related to inciting and creating unrest, including to foment instability on 9 May 2023. Several incidents, including but not limited to, are being investigated separately at the behest and collusion of political interests.
“Lt Gen Faiz Hamid (R) is being tolerated. […] All legal rights as per law,” he added.