A Pakistan court sentenced several journalists to life imprisonment. The verdict, delivered Friday in Islamabad, stems from 2023 protests linked to the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. An anti-terrorism court convicted them of inciting violence.
The trials were held in absentia. Those sentenced include journalists Wajahat Saeed Khan, Sabir Shakir, and Shaheen Sehbai. Former army officers turned YouTubers Adil Raja and Syed Akbar Hussain also received life sentences. Commentator Haider Raza Mehdi and analyst Moeed Pirzada were also convicted.
The ruling is likely to further inflame tensions between the government and the media. It raises serious concerns about freedom of speech in Pakistan. Immediate reactions from international press organizations are expected.
The 2023 protests erupted after Khan's arrest on corruption charges. Supporters clashed with police in major cities. The government responded with a crackdown, arresting thousands.
Appeals are expected to be filed. The international community will likely monitor the situation closely. The sentences could further destabilize Pakistan's already fragile political landscape.
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