Pakistan’s government is escalating its crackdown on critical voices, increasingly targeting journalists living abroad with in absentia convictions and arrest warrants since late 2025. This move extends Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government’s efforts to control reporting and commentary beyond Pakistan’s borders.
Crackdown Following Protests
In early January, an anti-terrorism court in Islamabad sentenced four foreign-based Pakistani journalists and commentators to two life sentences plus 35 years each, along with substantial fines. The convictions stem from their coverage of violent protests that erupted in May 2023 following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who remains in prison on charges he claims are politically motivated. The government accuses Khan and his supporters of inciting the unrest, during which military and government buildings were attacked.
Expanding Legal Pressure
The government’s actions aren’t limited to convictions. Authorities issued an arrest warrant in early December for an exiled journalist, alleging he spread propaganda against the Pakistani army. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced on December 1 a broad crackdown on social media users, YouTubers, and journalists accused of spreading “fake news,” warning those living overseas that they would be pursued and held accountable.
According to CPJ’s Asia-Pacific Director Beh Lih Yi, “Pakistan’s repression of journalists has now reached a global scale, leaving journalists unsafe and unable to report freely or even express their views on events back home.”
Targeted Journalists
The journalists convicted in absentia are: Sabir Shakir, a U.K.-based journalist with approximately 2.8 million subscribers on YouTube; Shaheen Sehbai, a U.S.-based freelance journalist and former newspaper editor; Wajahat Saeed Khan, a U.S.-based journalist reporting on Pakistan and South Asia via his YouTube channel with 544,000 subscribers; and Moeed Pirzada, a British-Pakistani journalist and U.S.-based editor.
The four journalists and three co-accused jointly stated they were never formally notified of the charges, served with legal documents, or given an opportunity to defend themselves. They argue the convictions violate Pakistan’s constitution and international human rights commitments.
Shaheen Sehbai reported being unaware of the ruling until it was reported in the media, expressing fear of threats and extradition. His Pakistani passport and identification have been canceled. Sabir Shakir stated that his and his wife’s national identity documents and bank accounts have been frozen, and that he was offered a deal by individuals linked to the army to cease critical reporting in exchange for dropping the charges.
Ahmad Noorani’s Case
In a separate case, an Islamabad court issued an arrest warrant in early December for U.S.-based journalist Ahmad Noorani, accusing him of spreading propaganda against the army. Noorani, co-founder of investigative news site FactFocus, said he was unaware of the case and fears the warrant will impede his travel. He is also facing other cases in Pakistan linked to his reporting on alleged interference by the army chief and corruption.
Noorani also reported continued harassment of his family, including the abduction of his two brothers in March 2025 and their subsequent travel ban and job losses.
What Happens Next?
It is possible that the Pakistani government will continue to pursue these legal avenues against journalists abroad, potentially seeking extradition through international legal channels. Further crackdowns on social media and online content are also likely. International pressure and advocacy from organizations like CPJ could influence the government’s actions, but a reversal of course is not guaranteed. The situation could also lead to self-censorship among journalists reporting on Pakistan, both domestically and internationally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted these convictions and arrest warrants?
The actions were taken in connection with coverage of violent protests that followed the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in May 2023, with the government accusing journalists of inciting violence and spreading hatred against state institutions.
What is the status of the journalists convicted in absentia?
The four journalists maintain they did not receive due process, were not formally notified of the charges, and were not given an opportunity to defend themselves in court.
What is Ahmad Noorani’s current situation?
Ahmad Noorani is facing an arrest warrant in Pakistan for allegedly spreading propaganda against the army and fears it will restrict his international travel. He also reports ongoing harassment of his family.
How will these actions impact the freedom of the press and the ability of journalists to report on Pakistan?
