Support for Democracy and Human Rights in Pakistan
Amid the political turmoil in Islamabad, several U.S. lawmakers and Amnesty International have voiced their concerns regarding the Pakistani government’s handling of protests led by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supporters. These protests were organized to demand the release of PTI’s founder-chairman, Imran Khan, who has been in custody for over a year.
US Lawmakers Condemn Violent Crackdown
- Rashida Tlaib highlighted the repression of protesters as an attack on democracy and human rights, expressing solidarity with the demonstrators.
- Greg Casar condemned the use of live fire and tear gas, urging authorities to permit peaceful protests.
- Barbara Lee and Summer Lee emphasized the importance of free speech and the right to peaceful assembly, standing in solidarity with pro-democracy advocates.
- Brad Sherman reiterated the PTI supporters’ right to protest peacefully and referenced an earlier letter from over 60 lawmakers to U.S. President Joe Biden calling for Imran Khan’s release.
Amnesty International’s Call for Accountability
Amnesty International criticized the law enforcement agencies (LEAs) for using unlawful and excessive force, including live ammunition, rubber bullets, and tear gas. The rights watchdog stressed that even during non-peaceful protests, the authorities must uphold international human rights standards by avoiding arbitrary deprivation of life and ensuring accountability for any misconduct.
Amnesty also urged the release of those detained solely for exercising their right to peaceful assembly, highlighting severe restrictions on movement, assembly, and access to communication services during the protests.
Reactions to the LEAs’ Actions
Former U.S. ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad denounced the government’s approach, urging a reconciliation process to address the political crisis. His sentiment was echoed by U.S. State Department representatives, who called for restraint and the upholding of fundamental rights.
Context and Future Concerns
The protests in Islamabad, described as a “do-or-die” effort by the PTI, followed months of lobbying in Washington by the party. The government’s crackdown resulted in casualties among law enforcement and protesters, with Amnesty calling for effective accountability and an enabling environment for peaceful demonstrations.
