Asad Qaiser Criticizes Supreme Court's Decision on Military Trials for May 9 Riots
Asad Qaiser Criticizes Supreme Court's Decision on Military Trials for May 9 Riots
In Islamabad, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leader Asad Qaiser expressed his concerns over the Supreme Court's decision to allow civilian cases related to the May 9, 2023 riots to be tried in military courts. Speaking at the High Court, Qaiser emphasized PTI's commitment to an independent judiciary and the rule of law. He stated, "We want an independent judiciary, we want the rule of law in this country. It is regrettable that the Supreme Court has allowed cases of civilians to be tried in military courts."
Qaiser also addressed the cases registered against PTI members, describing them as concerning. He mentioned discussions within PTI, highlighting three key points: the treatment of PTI workers, the release of arrested individuals, and a demand for a judicial inquiry into the incidents of May 9 and November 24. He stressed the importance of free court decisions, saying, "We are against pressure on the courts, we want decisions to be made freely in the court."
Criticizing the numerous cases against PTI founder Imran Khan, Qaiser called them revengeful and noted that the significance of serious charges had been diluted. He reaffirmed PTI's commitment to peaceful protests, stating, "Peaceful protest is the right of every citizen," and emphasized that no PTI worker had engaged in violence.
On December 13, a seven-member constitutional bench allowed military courts to announce decisions for civilians involved in the May 9 incidents. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that the sentences were given after a full investigation and legal procedures. The ISPR described the May 9 events as politically provoked violence and emphasized the need to address such political terrorism.
Doubts Revealed
Asad Qaiser
Asad Qaiser is a politician from Pakistan and a senior leader of the political party called Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). He has held important positions in the government, like being the Speaker of the National Assembly.
Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is the highest court in a country. It makes important decisions about laws and justice. In this context, it is the Supreme Court of Pakistan.
Military Trials
Military trials are special court proceedings where military officers judge cases, usually involving military personnel. In this case, civilians involved in riots are being tried in military courts, which is unusual.
May 9 Riots
The May 9 riots refer to violent protests that happened in Pakistan on May 9. People were upset about political issues, and some protests turned violent.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is a political party in Pakistan. It was founded by Imran Khan, who is a famous cricketer turned politician.
Independent Judiciary
An independent judiciary means that the courts and judges are free from outside influences, like politics, so they can make fair decisions based on the law.
Imran Khan
Imran Khan is a well-known former cricketer and the founder of the political party PTI in Pakistan. He has also served as the Prime Minister of Pakistan.
Judicial Inquiry
A judicial inquiry is an investigation conducted by a judge or a court to find out the truth about a particular event or issue, like the May 9 riots.
Political Violence
Political violence refers to violent acts that are carried out to achieve political goals. It can include protests, riots, or attacks related to political issues.
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