London : Human rights defender Fariba Baloch, based in London, has strongly condemned the life imprisonment of Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leader Dr. Mahrang Baloch and other members of the organisation, calling the verdict a serious setback to human rights, justice, and the rule of law in Pakistan.
In a video statement, Fariba Baloch described Dr. Mahrang Baloch as a prominent human rights activist from Balochistan who has spent years advocating for families of victims of enforced disappearances. A medical doctor by profession, she said, Dr. Mahrang Baloch gained international recognition for her peaceful activism and was included in the BBC’s 100 Women list and Time magazine’s Time100 Next list of emerging global leaders. She was also reportedly nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Expressing shock over the verdict, Fariba said it was deeply alarming that a globally recognised advocate of peace and human dignity has been sentenced to life imprisonment. She alleged that Dr. Mahrang Baloch and fellow BYC member Sibghatullah Baloch were convicted by a Pakistani anti-terrorism court on what she described as fabricated charges following a “faceless trial.”
She argued that the sentencing sends a troubling message to peaceful activists who raise their voices against enforced disappearances and alleged human rights violations in Pakistan. According to her, while human rights defenders are being imprisoned, those accused of abuses continue to enjoy impunity.
Fariba also criticised the reported public celebration of the verdict by some government officials, stating that such reactions undermine respect for human rights and democratic values. She further said that many rights activists believe the proceedings did not meet fair trial standards and were inconsistent with Pakistan’s international legal obligations.
Calling the case larger than any individual, Fariba Baloch said the verdict raises broader concerns about the treatment of peaceful human rights defenders in Pakistan. She urged the international community, civil society, and all those committed to justice, human dignity, and the rule of law to stand in solidarity with Dr. Mahrang Baloch, the BYC, and other peaceful activists.