US passes resolution seeking independent probe into Pak polls, Islamabad retorts
- In Reports
- 11:06 AM, Jun 27, 2024
- Myind Staff
The US House of Representatives approved a bipartisan resolution on Wednesday, endorsing democracy and human rights in Pakistan. They also urged for a "thorough and independent investigation" into allegations of interference in Pakistan's 2024 elections, as reported by ANI.
The resolution -- passed with 98 percent voting in its favour -- urged US President Joe Biden to collaborate with Pakistan in “upholding democracy, human rights, and the rule of law”.
Pakistan's general elections, held on 8 February, were overshadowed by violence, a nationwide internet shutdown, arrests, and unusually delayed results. These issues resulted in claims that the polling process had been rigged.
The resolution, HR 901, titled 'Expressing Support for Democracy and Human Rights in Pakistan,' was introduced by Congressman McCormick of Georgia and Congressman Kildee of Michigan, with over 100 colleagues co-sponsoring it.
“It underscores the importance of upholding democratic values and respecting the rights of the people of Pakistan as they face economic instability and security threats,” an official statement read.
“The near-unanimous passage of this resolution sends a clear message to the government of Pakistan that the United States stands with the people of Pakistan in their pursuit of democracy, free and fair elections, and respect for individual freedoms and human rights,” it added.
The resolution emphasised the importance of free and fair elections, urging a thorough and independent investigation into any claims of interference or irregularities in Pakistan’s general elections.
It also condemns "attempts to suppress the people of Pakistan’s participation in their democracy, including through harassment, intimidation, violence, arbitrary detention, restrictions on access to the Internet and telecommunications, or any violation of their human, civil or political rights".
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Foreign Office stated that the bipartisan resolution stemmed from an "incomplete understanding" of the country’s political situation and electoral process.
“We believe that the timing and context of this particular resolution does not align well with the positive dynamics of our bilateral ties,” Pakistan's Foreign Office said in a statement.
Islamabad further claimed that it is “committed” to the values of “constitutionalism, human rights and rule of law in pursuance of our own national interest”.
“We hope that the US Congress will play a supportive role in strengthening Pakistan-US ties and focus on avenues of mutual collaboration that benefit both our peoples and countries,” it added.
On the other hand, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif criticised the US over the resolution, stating that it had "no right" to interfere in the country's internal affairs.
"They have no right to interfere in our internal affairs or give any sort of verdict on the matter," Asif told local broadcaster Geo News.
He said the resolution had "no value" and called it a political posturing in an election year in the US.
Image source: Reuters
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