Pakistan: Terrorism conviction of human rights lawyers an indictment of justice system
According to Amnesty International, Yasmine Ahmed, Senior Director for Regional Human Rights Impact, described the ten-year prison sentences for Imaan Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha as an indictment of Pakistan’s justice system. She stated that the judiciary failed a critical test of its independence. The lawyers, known for defending victims of enforced disappearances and Baloch and Pashtun activists, were convicted on charges including blocking roads and chanting anti-government slogans during March 2025 protests. Amnesty International highlighted the weaponization of anti-terror laws to target dissent and urged their immediate release. The report also notes growing concerns from civil society regarding judicial independence in Pakistan following recent constitutional amendments and the resignation of judges citing executive interference.