ISLAMABAD: The Senate of Pakistan has passed the Pakistan Army Act (Amendment) Bill 2023 bill proposing amendments to the Army Act to address the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information. A person who discloses such information can be jailed for up to five years. Only the Army Chief or an authorized officer can publicly disclose such information. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif introduced the bill.
Severe punishment will be imposed on individuals serving in the army if they are found involved in political activities. Similarly, persons involved in political activities within two years after retirement, resignation, or dismissal from service will be punished.
The amendment also addresses electronic crimes aimed at defaming the Pakistan Army, with action taken under the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act.
PPP Senator Raza Rabbani and Tahir Bizenjo of PTI opposed the bill. They expressed concerns over the lack of consideration for amendments and the disregard for rules and regulations. They criticized the passage of multiple bills without sufficient clarity on their contents. Rabbani staged a token walkout in protest.
Military Trials Of Civilians: AGP Seeks More Time To Achieve Clarity On The Right To Appeal
Earlier, the Attorney General for Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Usman Awan requested more time from the Supreme Court to achieve clarity on granting the right of appeal to the suspects facing military trials from the May 9 incident.
AGP addressed the bench during the hearing of identical petitions challenging the government’s decision to conduct trials of civilians in military courts. He urged that the matter needs to be addressed carefully so that it does not affect the country’s international standing.
When asked about the required time, the AGP requested one month to properly address the issue.
