US Lawmakers’ Letter on Imran’s Release Sparks Diplomatic Row
Such letters are counter-productive and not in line with positive dynamics of Pak-US bilateral ties," says FO spokesperson
Islamabad-(Staff Reporter)-Pakistan has strongly reacted to a letter from over 60 US lawmakers to President Joe Biden, calling for the release of Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch termed the move “contrary to inter-state conduct and diplomatic norms”.
Pakistan values its bilateral relations with the US and believes in constructive dialogue to address concerns. However, comments on Pakistan’s domestic affairs are seen as counter-productive and not in line with positive dynamics of Pakistan-US bilateral relations.
Imran Khan has been imprisoned since August 2023 after conviction in the Toshakhana criminal case and subsequent sentencing in other cases ahead of the February 8 elections. The Democratic lawmakers’ letter urged President Biden to prioritize human rights in US policy towards Pakistan and secure Khan’s release, citing widespread human rights abuses.
The letter also requested US embassy officials to visit Khan at Adiala Jail and ensure his safety and well-being. This marks the first collective call from US Congress members for Khan’s release, despite his strained relations with Washington due to criticism of US foreign policy.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson emphasized that such letters are based on an incorrect understanding of Pakistan’s political situation. Instead, the US Congress should focus on strengthening Pakistan-US ties and exploring mutual collaboration benefiting both nations,
OHCHR’s statement on 26th Amendment
The Foreign Office has rejected the statement made by the office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) regarding the 26th constitutional amendment saying it is based on misinformation and inaccurate understanding of the developments in Pakistan.
Baloch said the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights has made “unwarranted and misplaced conclusions” based on media reports, social media posts and speculative analysis of manifestly political nature.
The spokesperson advised the OHCHR to focus on actual and grave situation of human rights violations where either the international human rights have been rendered ineffective or draconian laws have been enacted to oppress the illegally occupied peoples.
The Shehbaz Sharif-led government, with the assistance of allies including the PPP, passed the contentious legislation in both lower and upper houses of parliament.
Among other reforms, the legislation empowered the lawmakers to pick the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) from among the three most senior most judges.
