These 8 journalists and YouTubers were sentenced to life imprisonment in Pakistan, why did the court take this decision?

News Topical, Digital Desk : An anti-terrorism court in Pakistan on Friday sentenced eight journalists and social media commentators to life imprisonment after finding them guilty of terrorism-related offences linked to online activity supporting jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The sentences relate to cases filed after violent protests on May 9, 2023, when Khan's supporters attacked military bases following his brief arrest. Since then, the government and military have launched a massive crackdown on Khan's party and dissent, using anti-terrorism laws and military courts to prosecute hundreds accused of attacking state institutions and inciting violence.

What did the court say in its decision?

In its verdict, the court stated that the accused's actions constitute terrorism under Pakistani law and that their online content spread fear and unrest in society. Court documents show that most of those convicted are outside Pakistan and did not appear during the proceedings.

Who were held guilty?

According to the court's verdict, those convicted include former army officers-turned-YouTubers Adil Raja and Syed Akbar Hussain, journalists Wajahat Saeed Khan, Sabir Shakir and Shaheen Sehbai, commentator Haider Raza Mehdi and analyst Moeed Pirzada.

The court imposed life sentences, as well as additional jail terms and fines, and ordered that if the fines are not paid, the sentence will be further jail time. All sentences will be confirmed by the Islamabad High Court.

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