US Congressman voices concern over ‘political oppression’ in Pakistan

US Congressman Brad Sherman has written a letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, expressing his concern over the ‘human right violations, state of democracy and rule of law in Pakistan’, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

The US congressman, in his letter, dated April 11, writes to Secretary Blinken that it is in the US national interest to support human rights in Pakistan. He said though the US does not involve itself in Pakistan’s internal governmental matters but it must not shy away from raising its voice when the human rights of the Pakistani people are at stake. 

Congressman Sherman further writes: “I am particularly alarmed by incidents over the last year, especially the alleged torture and even sexual abuse of political figures such as former PM Khan’s Chief of Staff Shahbaz Gill and journalist Jameel Farooqui.” 

He also highlights cases against Imran Khan, use of force against his supporters, detention of protesters, sweeping counter-terrorism laws, closing space for free speech and Pemra’s ban on media coverage. 

He believes that delay in election in two key provinces is another sign of skirting democratic process by the authorities. 

In the end, Mr Sherman urges that US-Pakistan relationship is one of the most important foreign policy relationships and accordingly should reflect US priorities regarding democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Pakistan. 

See below my letter to @SecBlinken regarding Democracy in #Pakistan.

Thanks @DrMahmood40 for being such a good adviser, and also for arranging my most recent telephone call with #ImranKhan. pic.twitter.com/qsRAKhX4Oe

— Congressman Brad Sherman (@BradSherman) April 11, 2023

Former premier and PTI Chairman Imran Khan had accused the US of toppling his government last year. But now he has taken a U-Turn and has ‘exonerated’ America of the alleged plot. But his false narrative badly strained the relations between the two countries and his image in the US took a nosedive. 

But recently, the PTI has hired PR firms in the US to improve its image in the country. 

The PTI leaders are also informing the international community of the crackdown launched by the government against their party. As a result, a number of US leaders have been voicing their concern over the PTI gripes.