Islamabad
Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir, a prominent human rights lawyer and daughter of former Pakistani minister Shireen Mazari, was arrested by Islamabad Police on Monday alongside her husband. Authorities claimed their actions posed a “security risk” during the recent visit of the England cricket team.
Following the arrest, Shireen Mazari took to social media, describing the police’s actions as “state fascism in full swing” and a “shameful coward” act. Supporters argued that Imaan Mazari is being targeted for her vocal stance on human rights issues in Pakistan.
Reports indicate that the couple was involved in a confrontation with traffic police on October 25, during which they allegedly disrupted security protocols established for the cricket team’s visit. Traffic was halted at various points in the city, leading to significant delays. The police accused the couple of interfering with government operations and jeopardizing the safety of state guests.
Shireen Mazari contended that local police provoked the incident by swinging a steel barrier towards her daughter. “They assaulted, as videos show, and injured her. Who will hold the police accountable for terrorism?” she questioned.
Imaan Mazari has faced legal challenges before, notably for labeling the Pakistani military as “real terrorists” amid unrest following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in May. Her advocacy for human rights, including representing cases of missing persons, has drawn significant attention.
