THE bad press was bound to come. It remains to be seen whether the concerns recently expressed by several UN special rapporteurs regarding the convictions of advocate Imaan Mazari-Hazir and her husband, advocate Hadi Ali Chattha, will prompt reflection in decision-making circles. A group of five experts, mandated by the UN to report their findings, has noted that, “Lawyers, like other individuals, are entitled to freedom of expression. The exercise of this right should never be conflated with criminal conduct, especially not terrorism.” While the special rapporteurs do not speak on behalf of the UN itself, and while Pakistan is entitled to enforce its laws within its jurisdiction, the questions raised by the team cannot be dismissed lightly. According to the UN experts, the convictions of Ms Mazari and Mr Chattha stem from online expression that in their view falls within the ambit of protected speech under international human rights standards. They have also noted past legal actions taken against the two young lawyers for their work, as well as the application of broadly worded provisions of Peca, under which they have now been convicted, as matters of grave concern.

It bears noting that the UN rapporteurs’ observations echo the criticism levelled from within Pakistan at the judgement against Ms Mazari and Mr Chattha. The Constitution guarantees freedom of expression, subject to reasonable restrictions, and the courts have traditionally acted as custodians of this balance. However, the judiciary’s view of civil liberties has narrowed considerably in recent years, and it is no wonder that domestic and international scrutiny of its conduct is increasing as a result. It is in the state’s own interest to ensure that the law is applied with clarity and restraint. Upholding legal safeguards and ensuring fair trials reinforces confidence in the justice system. The courts must be reminded of our international commitments and also the principles underpinning Pakistan’s constitutional order.

Published in Dawn, February 6th, 2026