Washington: The US has voiced its concern over the current wave of arrests among Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) leaders. This move is likely to raise eyebrows at various international forums already seized with misgivings about democracy and human rights in Pakistan. “We are aware of reports of the arrest of PTI members and are concerned by the continued detention of opposition members,” US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said during his regular briefing in Washington.
The Statement Underscored America’s
The statement underscored America’s diplomacy’s global nature. It tracks worldwide political developments that could impact democratic principles and human rights.
Miller clarified that while Washington wants Islamabad to follow the rule-of-law principle, this adherence should be peaceful and” in accordance with Pakistan’s constitution and law.”
Also, arrests must not become an excuse for suppressing political activities or discrediting opponents.
The two-day-old crackdown on PTI coincided with a raid on the party’s secretariat in G-6, where senior leader Rauf Hassan was arrested along with several women workers. Police also took away computers from the secretariat.
The Government’s Action Against
The government’s action against PTI leadership has drawn criticism from local and international human rights organizations, who view it as another attempt to stifle dissenting voices in the country.
Pakistan is witnessing severe political instability these days, with PTI engaging in street protests across the country. Critics accuse it of creating conditions similar to those that led to military takeovers in the past. Still, PTI denies all such charges, saying it only demands justice through peaceful means.
A key US ally in South Asia, Pakistan has always been seen by many as a strategic hub. When it comes to regional politics vis-a-vis Afghanistan or India-Pak relations, among other things like counter-terrorism efforts, etc. Hence, there would always be some level of involvement between Washington DC and Islamabad, irrespective of their differences over governance methods adopted at home or across borders elsewhere.
As a country that has been involved in many democratic struggles worldwide. Unsurprisingly, the US has come out so strongly against this wave of arrests.
What should the international community do next in light of these developments?
The global community will observe how Pakistan deals with its internal problems as things progress. It is essential now to include everyone in the political process and give them. All a chance to speak to pass through this stormy season well. America and its allies may push for more democratic rights to be upheld within the country. This would involve stressing human rights issues being taken seriously and adherence to laws that govern. The establishment or maintenance of peace for any nation, among other things deemed necessary toward attaining it.
