`Army officers should depose before Faizabad sit-in panel`, says senior analyst

A 3-member inquiry commission has been formed to investigate the 2017 Faizabad sit-in, following demands for accountability and transparency surrounding the event. The attorney general informed the Supreme Court of Pakistan about the commission’s formation on Wednesday, highlighting its wide-ranging authority to summon key figures like former ISI chief Lt. Gen. (retd.) Faiz Hameed, former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, and the then Chief Justice Saqib Nisar.

The commission’s mandate, outlined in its Terms of Reference, empowers it to even arrest individuals who refuse to cooperate with the investigation. This development has ignited a crucial conversation about accountability within Pakistan’s political and military spheres.

Senior analyst Sajjad Anwar, during Naya Daur TV’s show “Khabar Say Aagay”, emphasized the importance of military officials appearing before the commission. He argued that if these individuals could influence the Supreme Court’s Chief Justice on political cases, they should also be open to scrutiny for their role in destabilizing the country.

Anwar further highlighted the detrimental impact of the deep state’s alleged involvement in cultivating extremist groups. He lamented the irreparable damage caused to Pakistan’s political landscape, economy, and social fabric, while pointing out the lack of accountability for such actions.

Nadia Naqi, a senior journalist, expressed optimism regarding the commission’s potential due to Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa’s commitment to the constitution’s supremacy. She emphasized the need for the government and courts to uphold their responsibilities and ensure a conclusive resolution of the Faizabad dharna case.

Journalist Aijaz Ahmed cautioned against solely blaming Lt. Gen. (retd.) Faiz Hameed, suggesting he likely acted under orders from superiors. He called for a nuanced approach to assigning responsibility, avoiding placing undue blame on a single individual.

Host Raza Rumi concluded by highlighting the futility of army officials hiding behind “national security” to avoid accountability for their actions. He emphasized the critical need for transparency and responsibility in addressing the issue of state-sponsored extremism.

Overall, the formation of the inquiry commission represents a significant step towards addressing the lingering questions surrounding the 2017 Faizabad sit-in. However, the process is likely to be complex and contentious, with debates about accountability and the role of different actors taking center stage.

December 1, 2023

Source: Naya Daur TV News

By Editor

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