Military Trial of Ex-ISI Chief Faiz Hamid Paused for Three Weeks, May Resume Soon

Ex-ISI Chief Faces Charges Under Secrets Act, Misuse of Authority

By DTD- On Jun 19, 2025

ISLAMABAD— The military trial of former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hamid has been on hold for the past three weeks, his lead counsel Barrister Mian Ali Ashfaq revealed on Wednesday, expressing hope that the proceedings may resume any day now.

Speaking to The News, Barrister Ashfaq confirmed that the trial, which is being conducted under the Official Secrets Act, had reached nearly 65% to 70% completion before coming to a halt. “We expect them to resume soon, possibly any day,” he stated.

Ashfaq, who is heading Gen (R) Faiz’s legal defense team along with two associates, noted that they have formally requested early completion of the proceedings due to his scheduled travel abroad next month. “Given my family vacation abroad after about a month, we have requested early conclusion of proceedings,” he added.

While specific reasons for the trial’s pause remain undisclosed, the case has drawn significant public attention due to the high-profile nature of the accused and the serious charges involved.

The former ISI chief is facing multiple charges, including violations of the Official Secrets Act, misuse of authority and government resources, engaging in political activities, and causing wrongful loss to individuals. The military’s public relations wing, ISPR, had earlier stated that Gen (R) Faiz’s actions compromised state security and national interests.

Furthermore, his alleged involvement in the events of May 9, 2023 — in coordination with what the military described as “vested political interests” — is under separate investigation. The incidents led to widespread unrest and were seen as an attempt to destabilize the state.

Gen (R) Faiz has denied any wrongdoing, asserting through his legal team that any political contacts made post-retirement were purely social and not in violation of any law.

While no specific timeline has been provided, Ashfaq’s remarks indicate that the confidential trial may move forward soon, subject to internal scheduling decisions by the military court.