Pakistani rights activist Mahrang Baloch sentenced to life in prison

A Pakistani anti-terrorism court has sentenced prominent Baloch human rights activist Mahrang Baloch and fellow activist Sibghatullah to life imprisonment over the killing of a paramilitary soldier during a protest in southwestern Balochistan.

The verdict, delivered by an anti-terrorism court in Quetta, relates to a 2024 protest in Gwadar where paramilitary personnel Shabbir Ahmed was killed. Prosecutors argued that speeches and actions by the accused incited a crowd that later attacked and killed the soldier. The court also ordered the convicts to pay compensation to the victim’s family.

Baloch and Sibghatullah have denied the charges. Their legal team rejected the verdict and said it would challenge the ruling in higher courts, arguing that the defendants were denied a fair opportunity to contest key evidence and witness testimony.

Mahrang Baloch is one of the most prominent voices highlighting allegations of enforced disappearances and human rights abuses in Balochistan. As a leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), she has led campaigns demanding accountability for missing persons and greater protection of civil rights in the province.

The ruling has drawn concern from human rights organizations. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) called for an immediate review of the judgment, warning that the treatment of rights advocates raises serious questions about due process and civil liberties.

Family members and lawyers representing Baloch have also criticized the proceedings, alleging procedural irregularities and restrictions on the defense's ability to cross-examine witnesses effectively.

The case has attracted international attention. Environmental activist Greta Thunberg described the verdict as a “mockery of justice,” while rights campaigners argued that the ruling could have broader implications for dissent and human rights activism in Pakistan.

Provincial authorities, however, defended the prosecution and maintained that the case was based on substantial evidence rather than political considerations. Government officials said the verdict reflects the judicial process and accountability for violence against state personnel.

Mahrang Baloch gained international recognition for her advocacy on behalf of families of missing persons in Balochistan. She was named among the BBC 100 Women in 2024, a recognition that brought global attention to her human rights campaign.