WASHINGTON: Several members of the United States Congress, including Congressman Brad Sherman, have urged for free, fair, and internationally-monitored general elections in Pakistan.
The demand was made during an event titled ‘Status of Human Rights and Democracy in Pakistan’, where critical issues concerning Pakistan’s human rights violations, missing persons, upcoming general elections, politically-motivated arrests, free media, and democracy were discussed.
At the event, Congressman Sherman emphasized that the United States (US) stands dedicated to the rule of law and democracy in Pakistan, regardless of whether the prime minister agrees with the US on foreign policy issues. He expressed that US lawmakers are looking forward to free, transparent, and monitored elections, as required by Pakistani law, which are expected to be held either in October or early November, depending on the circumstances.
Organized by Pakistani-American Dr. Asif Mahmood, the event was hosted by Congressmen Sherman and Jim Costa. Portraits of journalist Imran Riaz Khan and incarcerated fashion designer Khadija Shah, a dual citizen detained by Pakistani police after the May 9 violent incidents, were displayed at the event.
Short videos of alleged brutality and the May 9 riots were screened, along with Riaz’s family’s appeal for his location and appearance before the courts.
US Lawmakers Ask Pakistani Govt to Announce Election Date
During the discussions, US lawmakers urged the Pakistani government to announce an election date and allow international monitoring to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections. Congressman Kweisi Mfume even called for oversight from the United Nations. Congressman Eric Swalwell demanded an inquiry into the whereabouts of Imran Riaz through a letter to the Pakistani ambassador in Washington.
Congressmen Ted Lieu, Adam Schiff, and Mike Levin emphasized the need to uphold human rights and stand up for democratic values and freedom of speech. Congresswoman Judy Chu highlighted the importance of the American alliance with Pakistan for safety and security in South Asia but also expressed concerns about the current situation in Pakistan, stating that it poses a threat to its own security.
