Pakistan Court Jails Journalists Over Online Support After May 9 Protests

A Pakistani court has sentenced eight journalists and commentators to life imprisonment in absentia.
The case relates to online content shared after the May 9 protests. Those protests followed the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan.
The ruling has sparked concern among press freedom groups. It also highlights growing pressure on dissenting voices. Authorities linked digital activity to terrorism-related charges.

Court Links Online Content to Violence

An anti-terrorism court issued the verdict in Karachi on Friday. Judges said the accused promoted fear and unrest through online platforms. Therefore, the court ruled their actions met the legal definition of terrorism. The cases stem from unrest on May 9, 2023. That day, Khan’s supporters attacked military sites nationwide. The violence followed his brief detention by authorities.
Since then, the state has launched a wide crackdown. Officials have used anti-terror laws against political workers and critics. In addition, military courts have tried hundreds of suspects. Most convicted individuals live outside Pakistan. As a result, they did not attend court hearings. Court documents confirmed the proceedings took place in their absence.

Journalists Named, Rights Groups React

Those convicted include well-known journalists and analysts. They include Adil Raja, Syed Akbar Hussain, and Moeed Pirzada. Other names include Wajahat Saeed Khan, Sabir Shakir, and Shaheen Sehbai. The court also imposed fines and extra jail terms. If unpaid, additional prison time will apply.
However, the Islamabad High Court must confirm all sentences. Reuters could not reach the journalists or their lawyers. Meanwhile, media watchdogs voiced strong criticism. The Committee to Protect Journalists called the cases retaliatory. CPJ urged authorities to end intimidation of the media. It warned that such actions damage press freedom. The verdict now fuels debate over free expression after the May 9 protests.