Faiz Hamid Set to Testify Against Imran Khan: Vawda

News Desk

Islamabad: Senator Faisal Vawda on Thursday alleged that court-martialled former ISI chief Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hamid is set to testify against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, potentially escalating legal challenges for the former premier.

Speaking on Geo News’ program Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath, Vawda claimed that Hamid would provide evidence implicating the incarcerated ex-prime minister in ongoing cases.

Earlier in the day, the Field General Court Martial (FGCM) sentenced Hamid to 14 years of rigorous imprisonment on four charges, including involvement in political activities and violations of the Official Secrets Act, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

Vawda asserted that Imran Khan now appears firmly “caught in the legal squeeze” linked to the May 9 cases, warning that scrutiny and legal proceedings against him are likely to intensify.

The May 9 events in 2023 were triggered by Khan’s arrest at the Islamabad High Court in a graft case, which sparked violent protests across the country. During these riots, several civil and military installations, including the Corps Commander’s House in Lahore and the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, were targeted.

“The grip of the law will not stop here,” Vawda said, emphasizing that Hamid’s 14-year sentence “will not be reduced.” He also alleged that Hamid was responsible for providing sensitive details of military installations ahead of the May 9 unrest.

Vawda suggested that once the matter is clarified, accountability would first fall on PTI and its founder.

On the program, Vawda also discussed the role of former army chief Gen (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa, claiming that Bajwa initially demonstrated “negligence and incompetence” but later sought to remove Hamid after recognizing the potential consequences. He noted that Bajwa had been officially “exonerated,” meaning no action would be taken against him.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif echoed Vawda’s claims, asserting that the May 9 events were a “joint plan” involving both the former ISI chief and Imran Khan. He alleged that the unrest aimed to block the appointment of Field Marshal Asim Munir as army chief.

Asif maintained that Khan could not have orchestrated the May 9 riots alone, emphasizing that Hamid retained influence even after retirement. He added that further cases could still be initiated against the former premier.

The minister also criticized Bajwa, claiming that he exerted pressure and issued threats to prevent Munir’s appointment, initially supported Hamid for the army chief role, and later proposed other names to influence the process. In put from Geo News website.