Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has made strong allegations against former ISI chief Faiz Hameed, holding him responsible for the ouster of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif in 2017 and for shaping what he described as a controversial political project that altered Pakistan’s democratic course. Speaking at a press conference in Sialkot on Saturday, the defence minister said more legal action against the former spymaster is expected in the coming days, signalling an expansion of accountability proceedings.
Khawaja Asif’s remarks come shortly after Faiz Hameed was sentenced to 14 years in prison following a 15-month trial. The conviction, described as unprecedented in Pakistan’s history, was based on four counts including violations of secrecy laws, misuse of authority, engaging in political activities, and causing harm to others. According to the defence minister, this sentence is only the beginning, as additional charges are likely to be pursued through legal channels.
Addressing journalists, Asif alleged that Nawaz Sharif’s removal from office, the cases registered against him, and the rise of Imran Khan to power were part of a larger plan supervised by Faiz Hameed. He described the period surrounding the 2018 general elections as a carefully managed political project, claiming that Hameed played a central role in shaping the government that followed. Asif said Faiz Hameed was effectively in charge of what he referred to as “Project Imran,” and that the former intelligence chief remained one of the most influential figures during PTI’s tenure.
The defence minister further alleged that political opponents were targeted during this period, with arrests and intimidation used as tools to silence dissent. He claimed that Imran Khan was the main beneficiary of these actions, while democratic institutions were weakened. According to Asif, legislation was dictated to parliament, and key decisions affecting the country’s future were made outside formal constitutional forums.
Khawaja Asif also linked Faiz Hameed to the violent events of May 9, 2023, alleging that the unrest was planned with support from PTI workers and individuals within state institutions. He described the riots as a serious attack on the sanctity of the armed forces, contrasting them with what he called moments of national pride, such as the recent military operation “Bunyan ul Marsoos,” which he said earned Pakistan international recognition.
In his concluding remarks, the defence minister stressed that accountability would continue without discrimination. He warned that individuals who jeopardised Pakistan’s future for political power would be held responsible, regardless of whether they wore a uniform or civilian attire. Asif maintained that separating Imran Khan and Faiz Hameed from each other was impossible, adding that the consequences of their alleged actions are still being felt today.
The statements have reignited political debate across the country, with analysts closely watching how upcoming legal proceedings against Faiz Hameed may further impact Pakistan’s political landscape.
