The convict, a Fulbright scholar, was accused of blasphemy on social media by a religious group at Bahauddin Zakriya University in Multan, where he taught.
Hafeez's lawyer had told Naya Daur in September that the prosecution was trying to swing the case in their favor and get him convicted by hook or by crook. The prosecution was also allegedly using delaying tactics so as to avoid the verdict. They were also reports of the judge being pressured by a group of lawyers who wanted Hafeez to be convicted.
Hafeez's previous lawyer, Rashid Rehman, was shot dead in 2013 for defending him. Human rights activists have condemned the decision, terming it disappointing.
https://twitter.com/nighatdad/status/1208275284912431104?s=20