By Ashton Becker

Qandeel Baloch, a Pakistani model, actress, social media influencer and feminisit activist was murdered by her brother Waseem Azeem in 2016. He was sentenced to life in prison in 2019 and was acquitted of murder on Feb. 14 2022. Qandeel age 26, was found murdered in her home by cause of strangulation shortly after she posted suggestive photos with Muslim Cleric Abdul Qawi to Facebook.

Azeem highly disapproved of his sister’s social media content and the following she gained. She was bold, political and relatable to her audience. She often discussed controversial issues such as her rights as a Pakistani woman and her thoughts on reforms. She was even regarded as the first social media celebrity of Pakistan. Her opposition to the cultural norms was admirable to many women and appalling to others. Azeem stated that she was “bringing dishonor” to their family and that “girls are born to stay at home and follow tradition.” Yet, after committing such a gruesome act and publicly announcing his disregard for his sister’s life, he had the unwavering support of his parents.

Parents of Azeem pardoned him for the murder of his sister under Islamic law. A rather shocking and disturbing revelation: Islamic law allows for a murder victim’s family to pardon a convicted killer. Unfortunately, it has become more common as “honor killings” are on the rise. An honor killing is a situation such as this one wherein an individual (typically a woman) is killed by a relative (who disagrees with actions or behaviors associated with the individual) in order to ensure their family maintains their honor. Nearly 1,000 Pakistani women die each year as a result of honor killings. 

There was a public outcry following the murder of Qandeel Baloch. So much so that three months after her death, lawmakers responded by passing legislation that prevented murderers from walking free after honor killings. Murderers would no longer have the ability to be pardoned. This law was supported by women, activists and lawyers, but looked down upon by those who favor the conservative norms and Patriarchy of Pakistani society. 

Despite this legislation, the system has failed Qandeel Baloch and many other innocent women who fall victim to murder incited by outdated and sexist customs and a flawed justice system. Waseem Azeem continues to live as a free man. One may wonder what is the purpose of the Pakistani justice system. It is clear that it does not aim to enforce laws, protect its citizens or live up to the standard set by the name itself. Pakistani activists, many of whom took inspiration from Qandeel Baloch, continue pushing for reforms and legislation against honor killings, domestic violence and rape which plague the country. 

Photo via Flickr