LAHORE Mirrors — Lawmakers from the United States, including Congressman Brad Sherman, have urged for free, fair, and internationally-monitored general polls in Pakistan.
This demand was made during an event titled ‘Status of Human Rights and Democracy in Pakistan,’ where critical issues such as human rights violations, missing persons, upcoming general elections, politically-motivated arrests, and the importance of a free media and democracy were discussed.
Congressman Sherman emphasized America’s dedication to the rule of law and democracy, regardless of the alignment with foreign policy views of different prime ministers. He expressed that US lawmakers are looking forward to transparent elections as required by Pakistani law, expected to be in October or early November.
The event, organized by Dr Asif Mahmood with Congressmen Sherman and Jim Costa as hosts, witnessed the presence of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters displaying portraits of journalist Imran Riaz Khan and detained fashion designer Khadija Shah, a dual citizen involved in May 9 incidents.
Short videos of alleged brutality and riots from May 9 were screened during the event, along with Riaz’s family’s appeal for his location and fair treatment in court.
Lawmakers addressed various issues faced by Pakistan, urging the government not to try civilians in military courts and to reconsider the blasphemy law.
During the event, the Pakistani government was repeatedly asked to announce an election date and allow international monitoring to ensure transparent and fair elections. Congressman Kweisi Mfume even suggested United Nations oversight.
Congressman Eric Swalwell sent a letter to the Pakistani ambassador in Washington, inquiring about Riaz’s whereabouts.
Congressmen Ted Lieu, Adam Schiff, and Mike Levin stressed the importance of upholding human rights, democratic values, and freedom of speech.
Congresswoman Judy Chu acknowledged the significance of the American alliance with Pakistan for safety and security in South Asia but expressed concerns about the current situation being a threat to Pakistan’s own security.
