Ex-ISI Chief Faiz Hamid Arrested; Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Links Him to Political Events Post-Retirement
Former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Lieutenant General (retd) Faiz Hamid has been arrested by the military over allegations of land grabbing and other violations of the Pakistan Army Act. The arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing scrutiny of former military officials.
Key Points:
- Arrest and Charges: The military took Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hamid into custody following accusations of land grabbing and other infractions related to his post-retirement activities. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed that disciplinary action, including a Field General Court Martial, has been initiated against the former general.
- Defence Minister’s Remarks: Speaking on a Geo News program, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif claimed that Faiz Hamid had a hand in political developments following his retirement in November 2022. He suggested that Hamid, who once wielded considerable power, may have continued to influence political events, particularly in relation to the controversial incidents of May 9.
- Involvement in May 9 Events: Asif hinted that Faiz Hamid might have played a strategic advisory role in the unrest on May 9, though he admitted that this could not be confirmed with certainty. The events and circumstances, however, seem to point towards his involvement.
- Relationship with Former Army Chief: The Defence Minister also highlighted the close personal ties between Faiz Hamid and former army chief General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa, suggesting that their bond was strengthened by the close relationship between their fathers-in-law.
- Background: The arrest and subsequent charges stem from a petition filed in the Supreme Court by a private housing society’s CEO, who accused Faiz Hamid of misusing his authority. The ISPR stated that multiple violations of the Pakistan Army Act post-retirement have been established against Hamid, who also served as the Peshawar corps commander.
This development adds a new dimension to the ongoing legal and political dynamics in Pakistan, with the military’s actions against a high-profile former official drawing widespread attention.