Gen Faiz Hameed's FGCM in offing .. A Positive Stance by Pakistan Army

Insight Post

In an unprecedented yet welcome move, the Pakistan Army has initiated a Field General Court Martial for one of its most talked-about general officers, Retd Lt Gen Faiz Hameed. Gen Faiz has been accused of corruption, misuse of authority, and other charges. According to credible sources, a thorough inquiry was conducted before taking Retd Lt Gen Faiz into custody. Gen Faiz is now the third general officer in the Pakistan Army and the first-ever former DG ISI to face court martial.

This scenario should be welcomed by the citizens of Pakistan, as there has long been a perception both domestically and internationally that the Pakistan Military and its associated officers are above the law. The Pakistan Army is now challenging this perception, demonstrating that no one is beyond accountability.

Regardless of his professional prowess and abilities, if found guilty, Retd Gen Faiz Hameed should face the full extent of the law. This move towards accountability should not end with his court martial; the Pakistan Army, under the command of Gen Asim Muneer, appears to be on the right path—a path that should not be abandoned.

According to reliable sources and the ISPR (Inter-Services Public Relations, the military's official media/communication organization), the ongoing inquiry into Retd Gen Faiz is related to Top City, a private housing society near Islamabad International Airport.

"Complying with the orders of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, a detailed court of inquiry was undertaken by the Pakistan Army to ascertain the correctness of complaints in the Top City Case made against Lt Gen Faiz Hameed (Retd). Consequently, appropriate disciplinary action has been initiated against Lt Gen Faiz Hameed (Retd), under the provisions of the Pakistan Army Act."

Courtesy of ISPR: ISPR Press Release

Regarding the Top City housing society case, various factors, shortcomings, and mistakes led to the incident that occurred on 12-13 May 2017, allegedly on the orders of Gen Faiz, who was then DG-C ISI. We will strive to uncover the full story behind the Top City housing society in the near future.

The unprecedented custody of Gen Faiz is likely to open a Pandora's box of controversies, conspiracies, and perhaps some positive developments, including naming and shaming other culprits within Pakistan's power corridors, both political and military.

The Pakistani nation should welcome this positive move towards justice and support the wise decision made by the Pakistan Army. One can hope that the punishment of Gen Faiz will set an example for all ranks and files serving in authoritative positions within the Pakistan Army. This should also change the common perception that the Pakistan Army covers up the wrongdoings of its officers.

While expressing the above, I must emphasize the importance of national security and the continuity of the state through its consolidated arms, with the Pakistan Army being one of the strongest pillars of the state. As a nation, we should not be swayed by personal emotions and inclinations. Instead, we should strengthen our country by showing support and affection towards its defenders. This is not about bias or favoritism but rather a sensible approach given the current economic and political challenges we face in Pakistan.

We may not always agree with certain stances, decisions, or policies followed by the state, particularly by the Pakistan Army. However, this does not mean that the entire institution or state is on the wrong side of history. Rest assured, it is not.

In conclusion, as a nation, we should encourage the accountability of senior officials like Gen Faiz (who cannot be called guilty until proven so by the law). This better sense should prevail in the future as well, as such decisions will help regain public trust and affection for the Pakistan Army, one of the most professional and respected institutions in the world.