United Nations human rights experts have criticised Pakistan over the sentencing of Baloch human rights defender Mahrang Baloch, calling the verdict a “travesty of justice” and raising concerns over the use of counter-terrorism laws against peaceful activists.
The UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights Says , Mahrang Baloch was sentenced to two life terms by an Anti-Terrorism Court in Quetta after what the experts described as an unfair trial.
Mahrang Baloch, head of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee, and BYC leader Sibghatullah Shahji were convicted in connection with the killing of a Frontier Corps personnel during a sit-in protest in Gwadar in July 2024.
UN experts said the protest focused on enforced disappearances, discrimination, alleged state violence, impunity and concerns over Indigenous lands linked to foreign investment projects.
The experts also expressed concern over alleged due process violations, including prison-based court proceedings, denial of physical court attendance, restricted legal representation and reported concerns about Baloch’s health in detention.
They urged Pakistan to uphold its commitments under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and prevent the misuse of counter-terrorism legislation.
