‘No mercy for those involved in May 9 incidents’

ISLAMABAD: The establishment is not ready to offer any mercy to people involved in the May 9 incidents, and it will make sure that each accused found guilty of crimes against state installations and symbols is punished.

This was disclosed in a background briefing to a group of around 40 YouTubers and journalists on Monday.

The participants of the briefing asked about the delayed court proceedings and acquittal of some individuals upon which they were told that technicalities cannot hinder the determination of the institution to bring to justice the perpetrators of May 9.

During the briefing, social media experts were told about the establishment’s position on various issues, including the trial of former ISI chief Lt General (retd) Faiz Hameed, possibility of PTI founder Imran Khan’s military trial, security situation and army’s role in strengthening the country’s economy through Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).

The official said the trial of Lt General (retd) Faiz Hameed is taking time because he is being given a fair trial that includes the right to have a lawyer and produce both the evidence and witnesses in his defence.

When asked about the recent outburst by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur against the army, the official questioned the KP CM’s performance during the last six months. “When they fail to perform, they target army as it is the easiest escape route.”

When asked why retired army officers are appointed in various government departments, participants were told that thousands of army officers retire at the age of 40 every year. “These officers are young and qualified and they are hired by both private and government sectors on the basis of merit as they possess a unique skillset owing to their service in the army.” The participants were told that the same is practiced all over the world and in Germany more than 50 percent army officers join private and government jobs after their retirement.