A Pakistani court sentenced human rights lawyers Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha to 10 years in prison over a 2024 security incident.
A Pakistani anti-terrorism court sentenced lawyers Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha to 10 years in prison. The court convicted the couple for a security breach during a 2024 cricket tour.
Meanwhile, prosecutors accused the pair of moving road barriers. These barriers protected the England cricket team's security convoy in Islamabad. The couple also faced charges for obstructing police officers.
Furthermore, the judge ordered the lawyers to pay a fine of 200,000 Pakistani Rupees each. The court ruled that all prison sentences will run at the same time.
Also, the couple faced previous legal trouble for social media posts. They criticized the military in those online messages. The Supreme Court suspended those earlier sentences in August.
However, police arrested the couple again before they could leave jail. They have remained in Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail for several months. The lawyers call themselves prisoners of conscience facing state persecution.
Next, the pair argued that authorities want to set an example. They believe the government wants to stop people from opposing injustice. The couple remains committed to their path of human rights advocacy.
Additionally, Amnesty International criticized the court proceedings. The group stated that the lawyers did not receive a fair trial. They believe the state targets them for their peaceful activism.
Finally, the organization expressed concern over the trial location. Officials held the hearings inside the prison walls. The lawyers sat behind a cage during these sessions.
In conclusion, the couple is well-known for defending activists and journalists. They often represent marginalized groups in Pakistan. International human rights groups continue to watch the situation closely.