Pakistan’s controversial military courts sentenced 60 civilians to prison terms in connection with violent protests following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in 2023, sparking strong international criticism.

The military’s media wing ISPR on Thursday said that the Field General Court Martial handed down the punishments to the 60 civilians after examining all evidence and completion of due process.

The court announced the sentences ranging from two to 10 years in prison for involvement in attacks on military facilities on May 9, 2023.

Mr Khan’s nephew was sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment for attacking a corps commander’s house in Lahore.

“All convicts retain the right to appeal and other legal recourses, as guaranteed by the Constitution and law,” the ISPR said.

Earlier, 25 civilians were sentenced after trials in military courts for the same charges.

The announcement drew sharp criticism from Britain, the European Union, the United States and rights groups.

On Monday, the U.S. State Department said it was “deeply concerned” that civilians have been sentenced by a military tribunal.

“These military courts lack judicial independence, transparency, and due process guarantees. The United States continues to call on Pakistani authorities to respect the right to a fair trial and due process, as enshrined in Pakistan’s constitution,” it said in a statement.

Pakistan’s security forces arrested hundreds of Khan’s supporters after they attacked military installations and government buildings following his arrest. More than 100 people were tried in military tribunals.

Mr Khan, who ruled Pakistan between 2018 and 2022, has been in jail for more than a year after being convicted on several corruption charges. He denies the charges against him.

(dpa/NAN)