UN Experts Demand Immediate Release of Pakistani Lawyers
UN human rights experts demand the immediate release of Pakistani lawyers Imaan Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha amid terrorism charges.
United Nations human rights experts have issued an urgent call to Pakistan to immediately release human rights lawyers Imaan Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha. The experts are demanding that the government withdraw what they have described as unfounded criminal and terrorism-related charges against the married couple.
A Cycle of Arrests and Bail
The controversy surrounding the couple intensified following their rearrest on 17 September 2026. This arrest occurred only hours after the Supreme Court of Pakistan had granted them bail. The new charges are linked to an older case originating in March 2025, concerning their involvement in a protest that authorities claim was illegal.
The Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) noted that the timing of the rearrest is highly suspicious. They suggested that invoking an older case immediately after a bail release "appears to be an attempt" to weaponize the criminal justice system to punish freedom of expression and human rights advocacy.
Legal Complications and Court Rulings
The legal battle for the duo has faced multiple setbacks in recent weeks:
- Anti-Terrorism Court Decision: Following their recent arrest, an Islamabad anti-terrorism court denied a police request for a 30-day interrogation period. Instead, the court ordered the couple to be transferred to jail on a 14-day judicial remand.
- Bail Petition Rejection: On 22 September, an anti-terrorism court in Islamabad returned their bail petitions due to the absence of signed powers of attorney.
Criticism of Counter-Terrorism Laws
The UN experts expressed deep concern regarding the use of "vague and broad" counter-terrorism provisions. They argued that these laws are being used to restrict human rights and interfere with legitimate professional advocacy. The couple had previously faced convictions for social media posts that supported local activists and criticized the military.
The experts have urged the Pakistani authorities to:
- Drop all charges arising from the lawyers' exercise of freedom of expression or legitimate professional work.
- Ensure the couple has immediate access to lawyers of their choice.
- Guarantee access to their family members and necessary medical care.
The OHCHR confirmed that they have been in direct contact with Pakistan regarding these growing concerns over the protection of human rights and the rule of law.