In an unprecedented move in Pakistan’s history, the military has initiated court martial proceedings against former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief, Lt Gen (Retd) Faiz Hameed, in connection with the Top City housing scheme scandal. The announcement was made on Monday by the army’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The ISPR confirmed that following a Supreme Court directive, a comprehensive inquiry was conducted by the Pakistan Army to investigate the allegations brought against Lt Gen Hameed. The inquiry revealed multiple violations of the Pakistan Army Act, both during and after his retirement. Consequently, the army has taken Lt Gen Hameed into custody as the Field General Court Martial process begins.
This marks the first time in the nation’s history that a former spymaster faces court martial, underscoring the severity of the charges. The inquiry committee, reportedly formed in April, was tasked with examining accusations of misuse of authority during Hameed’s tenure. The committee, led by a serving major general, was established as part of the military’s commitment to self-accountability.
The scandal, which first came to light in 2023, centers around allegations made by the management of Top City, a private housing scheme. They accused Gen Hameed of orchestrating an illegal raid on the property of the scheme’s owner, Moeez Khan. The Supreme Court had previously emphasized the gravity of these allegations, stating they could undermine the reputation of key state institutions if proven true.
Former Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah reacted to the development, describing it as a significant and unexpected event. He noted that this move would enhance the military’s reputation for accountability, regardless of the individual’s rank.
Gen Hameed, who had sought early retirement in November 2022, had been a controversial figure throughout his career, particularly during his tenure as ISI chief from 2019 to 2021. He was involved in several high-profile incidents, including the 2017 Faizabad dharna and alleged interference in judicial proceedings.
As the court martial proceedings move forward, the nation awaits further details on this historic case, which could have far-reaching implications for Pakistan’s civil-military relations and the integrity of its institutions.
