Islamabad( The COW News Digital)The Pakistani government has welcomed the recent court rulings in the May 9 cases, declaring them a victory for law and justice. The remarks came shortly after a special Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Faisalabad sentenced 196 individuals, including several senior leaders of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in three separate cases related to the May 9, 2023 riots.
On Thursday, the ATC handed 10-year prison sentences to prominent PTI leaders Omar Ayub, Shibli Faraz, and Zartaj Gul. Member of National Assembly Sahibzada Hamid Raza also received a 10-year sentence. Another PTI figure, Junaid Afzal Sahi, received the shortest term of 3 years.
Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, addressing the media, hailed the court’s decision, stating it represents the triumph of the justice system over lawlessness. “What happened on May 9 was not protest, it was an assault on the state itself,” Tarar said. “From desecrating the martyrs’ monuments to attacking defense institutions, these actions crossed every red line.”
He added that the attacks on military offices in Faisalabad, and elsewhere, were well-documented, with clear video evidence identifying the individuals involved. “The masterminds behind this violence, including Imran Khan, are now facing the consequences. No one in the future will dare repeat such a heinous act,” he asserted.
Tarar emphasized that May 9 will be remembered as a dark chapter in Pakistan’s political history, where violence was used as a tool for political gain. “Even our enemies have not dared attack our military installations like this,” he added.
The government’s stance, however, has drawn strong opposition from the PTI, which has announced its intention to challenge the convictions in higher courts. A PTI spokesperson said the party views the sentences as politically motivated, calling the trials unfair and vowing to continue the legal battle until justice is served.
The May 9 incidents had erupted following Imran Khan’s arrest, triggering nationwide protests. Multiple PTI leaders and supporters were later detained and charged under terrorism laws for attacking government and military properties.
As the legal and political fallout continues, this landmark ruling marks a significant moment in Pakistan’s ongoing struggle between political accountability and civil liberties.
