July 24, 2025 – London, UK
The defamation trial between Soldier Speaks founder Adil Raja and Brigadier (Retd) Rashid Naseer concluded today at the Royal Courts of Justice (Case No. QB-2022-002648), marking a powerful victory for truth and press freedom. Appearing via video link from a secure location in the UK, Adil Raja solidified his defense against what we believe is a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP) orchestrated by Pakistan’s military establishment. Day 4 saw the case wrap up with Adil’s unwavering resolve, exposing the weakness of Naseer’s claims and reinforcing our mission to hold the powerful accountable.
Key Highlights from Day 4: Justice Prevails
The final day focused on closing arguments and the judge’s summation, presided over by Deputy High Court Judge Richard Spearman KC. Adil Raja’s counsel, Simon Harding, reiterated that our publications—accusing Naseer of corruption, electoral interference, and human rights abuses—were made in the public interest, drawing on verified sources within Pakistan’s government and intelligence circles. Adil had previously testified to cross-checking his information, a point he emphasized again through his legal team, countering Naseer’s assertion that the allegations were baseless. The court heard no new evidence from Naseer to substantiate his claims of harm, further weakening his case.
Naseer’s counsel, David Lemer, attempted to discredit Adil’s reliance on anonymous sources, but Adil’s defense highlighted the necessity of protecting whistleblowers in Pakistan, where intimidation is rampant. The judge reiterated that the case centered on individual defamation, not broader issues involving the ISI or Pakistani politics, yet Adil’s team argued that the public interest defense applied due to the systemic implications of his exposés. Supporters on social platforms like X hailed Adil’s performance, with comments such as “Adil Raja has dismantled the ISI’s narrative in court!” reflecting the growing belief that this SLAPP has backfired.
A SLAPP Exposed
The National Union of Journalists’ London Freelance Branch (NUJ-LFB) reiterated its support, condemning the trial as an attempt to silence journalism. Adil’s withdrawal of the truth defense, focusing solely on public interest, proved a strategic masterstroke, shifting the narrative to the broader fight against military oppression. Witnesses like Shahzad Akbar and journalists Shaheen Sehbai and Syed Akbar Hussain, who testified remotely, underscored the dangers faced by those exposing truth, with Adil noting threats to his family as evidence of the stakes involved.
Victory for Soldier Speaks
As the trial ended, Adil Raja emerged stronger, having faced down Naseer’s allegations with courage and evidence-based journalism. While the judge reserved judgment—meaning a final ruling will come later—Adil’s performance over the four days has shifted the momentum. We at Soldier Speaks see this as a triumph over the military’s attempt to use UK lawfare to muzzle us. The ISI’s proxy, Naseer, failed to prove serious harm beyond personal claims, and Adil’s stand has inspired a global movement for press freedom.
Stay with the Fight
The battle isn’t over until the judge delivers the verdict, but Adil Raja’s resolve has set a precedent. Follow updates on SoldierSpeaks.org, YouTube, and X as we await the ruling. Your support has been our strength—together, we will continue to expose the truth and defend the voiceless.#SoldierSpeaks #PressFreedom #TruthWillPrevail
