PML-N Senator Talal Chaudhry on Sunday praised the Pakistan Army’s internal accountability process and suggested that other institutions may soon follow suit. He pointed to recent arrests and investigations involving former spymaster Lieutenant General (retd) Faiz Hamid and other ex-servicemen as evidence of a new era of accountability in Pakistan.
Chaudhry emphasized that the accountability process is a significant development after 75 years, noting that political parties also need to adopt similar measures. He criticized Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Information Secretary Raoof Hasan, alleging that he provided material to anti-Pakistan journalists and suggesting that there was a broader, organized effort behind these actions.
The senator also challenged the judiciary, accusing former Chief Justice Mian Saqib Nisar of having questionable contacts with the ex-ISI chief and claiming that decisions made under Nisar’s leadership had contributed to Pakistan’s current challenges.
Chaudhry, who served as a federal parliamentary secretary from 2013 to 2017, asserted that the economy is improving and reiterated the government’s commitment to Pakistan’s integrity. He criticized the former ruling party, led by Imran Khan, for isolating the country diplomatically and creating discord with global allies.
In a separate interview, Chaudhry stated that the federal government is committed to maintaining the accountability process and addressing any reluctance from institutions to tackle those destabilizing the country. He described the May 9 riots, which followed Khan’s arrest, as a “failed rebellion” and vowed that the government would not tolerate such disturbances.
His comments came after the military’s announcement on August 12 regarding the arrest of Lt Gen Faiz Hamid over allegations of land grabbing and misconduct. Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar indicated that the investigation would expand, potentially implicating other high-profile figures.
The army confirmed that Gen Faiz was arrested for violating the Army Act after his retirement and that the Field General Court Martial process had been initiated against him. The Supreme Court had ordered the investigation following allegations by a land development company.