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EU Condemns Pakistan's 17-Year Sentences for Lawyers' Posts

1/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The European Union criticized Pakistan for convicting Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chatta, two lawyers, over social media posts.
The European Union said the sentences undermine freedom of expression.
The United Nations Office condemned the sentences, citing the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) to suppress dissent.
The lawyers received a combined 17-year sentence and 36 million Pakistani rupees in fines.
Opposition leaders urged respect for the rule of law.

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Story summary

The European Union criticized Pakistan for convicting Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chatta, two lawyers, over social media posts.
The European Union said the sentences undermine freedom of expression.
The United Nations Office condemned the sentences, citing the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) to suppress dissent.
The lawyers received a combined 17-year sentence and 36 million Pakistani rupees in fines.
Opposition leaders urged respect for the rule of law.