U.S. Lawmakers Condemn Pakistan’s ‘Military Rule with Civilian Facade’

US-(Special Correspondent/Webdesk): Over 60 U.S. lawmakers have described Pakistan’s governance as “military rule disguised as civilian leadership,” raising serious concerns about the weakening of democratic values and the growing military influence over civilian affairs.

In a letter to President Joe Biden, the lawmakers expressed their worries following Pakistan’s controversial parliamentary elections in February, which were marked by widespread allegations of electoral fraud and voter suppression.

They viewed these incidents as alarming signs of increasing authoritarianism.

The letter also called for the immediate release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned since August 2023 on charges he denies, including corruption.

Fearing for Khan’s safety, the lawmakers urged the Biden administration to secure assurances from the Pakistani government for his well-being and to allow U.S. Embassy officials to visit him.

“The government has ramped up its suppression of social media and the internet as part of a broader effort to stifle political activism, labeling it ‘anti-state propaganda’ and digital terrorism,” the letter stated.

“These oppressive actions are an attack on basic human rights. Moreover, Pakistani authorities are increasingly engaging in cross-border repression. We stand with our Pakistani American constituents, community leaders, and global supporters in solidarity with the Pakistani people and their fight for a truly representative democracy.”

The lawmakers also highlighted concerns that the military’s expanding control is silencing political dissent and eroding civil liberties.

They pointed out increasing censorship on social media and pressure on journalists as part of a strategy to suppress opposition and control the political narrative.

This congressional letter follows a vote in June, where the U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly called for an in-depth investigation into Pakistan’s election process.

Islamabad, however, has rejected these criticisms, arguing that they stem from misunderstandings about the country’s political landscape.