WASHINGTON: US lawmakers, led by Congressman Brad Sherman, are pushing for free, fair, and internationally-monitored general elections in Pakistan. The call for democratic progress came during a discussion on the ‘Status of Human Rights and Democracy in Pakistan,’ addressing critical issues like human rights violations, missing persons, upcoming elections, politically-motivated arrests, and the importance of a free media and democracy.
Congressman Sherman emphasized America’s commitment to the rule of law and democracy, regardless of the alignment of foreign policies with various prime ministers. He expressed the hope for free and transparent elections, as required by Pakistani law, potentially taking place in October or early November.
The event, organized by prominent Pakistani-American Dr. Asif Mahmood and hosted by Congressmen Sherman and Jim Costa, also saw the participation of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters. They displayed portraits of journalist Imran Riaz Khan and detained fashion designer Khadija Shah, a dual citizen arrested after the May 9 violent incidents in Pakistan.
The gathering featured short videos showcasing alleged brutality and the May 9 riots, along with Riaz’s family’s appeal to locate and bring him before the courts. However, the videos were screened without audio.
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The discussion highlighted the importance of upholding human rights and democratic values in Pakistan, with US lawmakers urging for transparent and monitored elections to ensure a fair democratic process in the country.
