Pakistani Court Sentences Journalists to Life Over Online Activity

Pakistani Court Sentences Journalists to Life Over Online Activity
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A Pakistani anti-terrorism court has sentenced eight journalists and social media commentators to life imprisonment in absentia over terrorism-related charges linked to online content supportive of former prime minister Imran Khan, Reuters reported. The verdict was delivered on Friday, with the court ruling that the defendants’ digital activity amounted to acts that spread fear and unrest under Pakistan’s anti-terrorism laws.

The cases stem from unrest on May 9, 2023, when Khan’s brief arrest triggered violent protests, including attacks on military facilities. In the aftermath, authorities launched a broad crackdown on Khan’s party and its perceived supporters. Hundreds have since faced prosecution through anti-terrorism statutes and military courts for alleged incitement and attacks on state institutions, according to officials and rights groups.

Court documents show most of those convicted are believed to be outside Pakistan and did not attend proceedings. The court imposed life sentences along with additional prison terms and financial penalties, warning of further jail time if fines remain unpaid. Media watchdogs have criticized the investigations as retaliatory and harmful to press freedom. All sentences remain subject to confirmation by the Islamabad High Court.