The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party's recent objections to military trials for those involved in the 9 May attacks are being met with criticism, as political observers highlight the party's historical stance on similar judicial processes.
Former Prime Minister Imran Khan and other PTI leaders, including Murad Saeed, have previously supported the use of military courts for the trial of civilians, particularly political leaders, media figures, and other civilians. As such, critics argue that PTI's current opposition to these trials lacks a moral basis, given the party's past endorsement of military tribunals.
Following the 9 May attacks, which saw violent protests and assaults on state institutions, the perpetrators were designated for trial in military courts. However, PTI distanced itself from the proceedings, opting not to participate in advocating for a fair trial or transparency in the process. This decision has led to questions about the party's commitment to its workers, with detractors pointing out that PTI's leadership failed to support their activists during these legal proceedings.
Defence experts have also weighed in, asserting that PTI's leadership should have refrained from labeling security forces as "traitors" during the unrest, particularly when the military courts are now holding those responsible accountable for the attacks.
With the military courts now delivering sentences, critics assert that PTI has no legitimate ground to question the legal processes or jurisdiction of these tribunals.
