More than 60 US lawmakers have urged President Joe Biden to pressure Pakistan to release all political prisoners, including former Prime Minister Imran Khan, a move criticized by Islamabad.
In a letter to Biden on Wednesday, the lawmakers raised concerns over the human rights situation in Pakistan, claiming the elections held earlier this year were marred by “historic irregularities.”
The letter highlighted “widespread electoral fraud, state-led efforts to suppress voters supporting the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, mass arrests of political leaders, journalists, and activists, and the continued imprisonment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.”
The PTI has accused the Election Commission of Pakistan of rigging and manipulating results, allegations the commission has denied as baseless.
The lawmakers called on Biden to leverage the US’ influence over Pakistan to ensure the release of political prisoners, including Khan, and to curb alleged human rights violations.
They questioned, “What accounts for the delay in imposing visa bans or asset freezes on Pakistani elites involved in human rights abuses, and what is the timeline for these actions?” They further urged action against Pakistani officials accused of undermining democratic principles and human rights.
Islamabad Criticizes US Intervention
Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry denounced the letter as “counterproductive” and inconsistent with diplomatic norms.
“Pakistan values its bilateral relations with the United States and believes in constructive dialogue to address concerns. However, comments on Pakistan’s internal affairs go against inter-state conduct and diplomatic norms,” said Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mumtaz Zahra Baloch.
She emphasized that such statements were based on a “misunderstanding” of Pakistan’s political situation and urged the US Congress to focus on fostering positive bilateral relations instead.
“We hope the US Congress will contribute to strengthening Pakistan-US ties and explore areas of mutual collaboration for the benefit of both countries,” Baloch added.
Imran Khan’s Legal Battle
Imran Khan, 72, remains imprisoned in Rawalpindi, facing multiple charges ranging from corruption to terrorism — all of which he denies. Pakistani courts have already overturned two of his convictions and suspended a third.
The PTI claims Khan has been denied access to his lawyers and family since October 3, further accusing the government of restricting his legal rights.
Khan, a former cricket star turned politician, was ousted in April 2022 through a no-confidence vote.
