Imaan Mazari and Hadi Chattha Appeal Security Breach Convictions
Human rights lawyers challenge ten-year sentences in Islamabad High Court amid international outcry.
1Formal Appeal Filed
Human rights lawyer Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and her spouse Hadi Ali Chattha have officially filed appeals in the Islamabad High Court. They are challenging their recent convictions by an anti-terrorism court regarding a security breach case. The couple also submitted applications seeking the immediate suspension of their sentences and release on bail.
2Contested Trial Proceedings
The appellants argue that the trial court failed to meet essential fair trial requirements. Their counsel claims that copies of charges were not provided, and pleas were recorded without their consent. Furthermore, they allege that prosecution evidence was recorded in their absence, violating both the Code of Criminal Procedure and the Constitution.
3Procedural Irregularities Cited
The defense highlights that the trial was conducted at Adiala jail in a manner resembling a secret proceeding. They contend that the court proceeded despite a pending transfer application in the high court. Additionally, the appellants were reportedly denied confidential consultations with their legal team and had state counsel imposed against them.
4Anti-Terrorism Act Challenges
The appeal asserts that the conviction under Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act is legally unsustainable. The defense argues that the prosecution failed to prove the necessary design or purpose required by law. The trial court itself reportedly described the incident as an ordinary, common occurrence rather than an act of terror.
5International Human Rights Pressure
Over 20 international organizations, including Amnesty International and the New York City Bar Association, have condemned the sentencing. They issued a joint statement calling for the immediate and unconditional release of the couple. These groups expressed deep concern regarding the misuse of anti-terrorism legislation to intimidate lawyers performing human rights work.
6Concerns Over Due Process
Human rights monitors noted that the couple was kept in a cage-like structure during the trial, hindering effective communication with their lawyers. The organizations emphasized that the prosecution relied primarily on police testimony. They argue that these proceedings undermine the independence of the legal profession and access to justice in Pakistan.
7Broader Chilling Effect
The joint statement warns that these successive criminal proceedings create a chilling effect on legal professionals. By targeting lawyers for their advocacy, authorities risk discouraging the defense of politically sensitive cases. The organizations cited Pakistan's obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights to ensure fair judicial treatment.
8Call for Judicial Review
The international coalition urged the Pakistani government to quash the convictions and end the misuse of the criminal justice system. They requested a review of how anti-terrorism and electronic crime laws are applied against critics. The case remains a critical test for the independence of the judiciary and due process protections.
Original article: Dawn — Imaan Mazari and Hadi Chattha Appeal Security Breach Convictions