In Pakistan, thousands of protesters will face trial in military courts following the temporary arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
In a statement late Tuesday night (local time), the government and military said they are not looking back. Riots broke out in the South Asian country last week after the opposition leader was removed from a court in Islamabad. Demonstrators stormed several military buildings. According to the police, more than 4,000 people have been arrested. Most are still in prison. Khan is now free again.
Human rights organizations criticized the announcement. “Triing civilians in a military court is not compatible with international law,” said Amnesty International. This is “pure intimidation tactics” against the opposition. The organization Human Rights Commission of Pakistan also spoke of arbitrary arrests of politicians belonging to Khan’s PTI party. During Khan’s nearly four-year tenure until April last year, civilians had to answer to military tribunals.
The former head of government has since been released by order of the Supreme Court. However, a renewed arrest of the former cricket star is possible. Since Khan was overthrown by a no-confidence vote, the judiciary has repeatedly issued fresh accusations. Observers see political reasons for this. Khan himself has repeatedly accused the powerful military of being involved in a conspiracy against him. The 70-year-old hopes for a political comeback.
(yam/sda/dpa)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
