Leading Pakistan activist given life sentence over soldier's killing at rally
Summary
Mahrang Baloch, a human rights activist from Pakistan's Balochistan province, has been given a life sentence for her involvement in the killing of a paramilitary soldier during a 2024 rally. She and fellow activist Sibghatullah were convicted of murder and terrorism but deny the charges and say they were not allowed a fair trial.Key Facts
- Mahrang Baloch leads the Balochistan Unity Committee (BYC), which campaigns against enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
- She was sentenced to life in prison and fined 200,000 Pakistani rupees for her alleged role in the 2024 killing of soldier Shabbir Ahmed.
- Prosecutors say Baloch incited a crowd that attacked the soldier, resulting in his death.
- Baloch and Sibghatullah boycotted the trial and claim they were denied due process.
- The trial was held by an anti-terrorism court in Quetta, Pakistan.
- The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan called for a review of the verdict, citing bias and lack of fairness.
- Swedish activist Greta Thunberg criticized the trial as secretive and unjust.
- Baloch’s campaign began after her father disappeared in 2009 and was later found dead with signs of torture.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.