The US has raised concerns about irregularities in Pakistan's February 8 general elections and has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the country's democratic institutions and addressing terrorist threats.
Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu is set to testify before a Congressional panel on the future of democracy in Pakistan and the US-Pakistan relationship. In his written testimony, Lu highlighted various issues observed during the elections, including restrictions on freedom of expression and assembly, electoral violence, attacks on journalists, and allegations of interference in the electoral process.
He noted that despite these challenges, over 60 million Pakistanis, including over 21 million women, exercised their right to vote. Lu also acknowledged positive aspects of the elections, such as increased participation of women, religious and ethnic minority groups, and young people.
While declaring Pakistan an important partner, Lu emphasized the US commitment to strengthening democratic institutions, promoting economic stability, countering terrorist threats, and respecting human rights, including religious freedom. He highlighted US support for infrastructure projects and humanitarian assistance in Pakistan but also expressed concern about the country's mounting debt challenges.
The allegations of vote rigging have led to political tensions in Pakistan, with Khan's party claiming that its mandate was stolen by the formation of a new coalition government led by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).
