LAHORE: Several politicians reacted to former Director General (DG) Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lieutenant General (retd) Faiz Hameed’s custody by military and court-martial proceedings against him. In statement issued here, Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider welcomed decision.

He said that accountability should not be limited to individuals, but rather be universal principle applied to all, including generals, judges, politicians and bureaucrats for ‘misusing’ powers. He said that there is no alternative to accountability for country’s progress and prosperity. “It is welcoming that Army initiated accountability process within its own ranks,” he added.  Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leader Javed Latif said that mastermind behind May 9 incidents was not just Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan but an entire team was ‘involved’.

He said that May 9 riots were result of collective effort and it would be unfair to blame single individual. PML-N leader expressed regret over delay in action. “It would have been better, had action was taken way earlier,” he added. Independent Senator Faisal Vawda said that Pakistan Army sent clear message of accountability that it does not differentiate between individuals when it comes to accountability. He praised current Army leadership, saying they are honest and have sent message that no one is above law. “Those who were once considered powerful are now facing accountability,” he said.

Minister for Information Atta Tarar urged that issue of Faiz Hameed should not be linked with government, saying that ISPR has already issued   ‘clear’ press release.

He said that Army has its own inquiry system of accountability and is merit-based organisation. “Some irregularities related to Top City scandal were found against Faiz Hameed, of course, investigation must have gone on for several months and what has come to light has come only after that,” said Tarar.

Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan Chairman and Minister for Education and Professional Training Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui said that case of former ISI Chief Faiz Hameed, is beyond their knowledge or control.