A coalition of eleven members of the US Congress has penned a letter to Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, appealing to the Biden administration to withhold future US assistance to Pakistan. The lawmakers are urging this action until Pakistan reinstates constitutional order and conducts transparent and fair elections.
In their missive, the legislators have sought a legal assessment, under the Leahy Laws and Section 502(b) of the Foreign Assistance Act, to ascertain whether US-origin security assistance might have contributed to human rights violations in Pakistan. They are emphatically requesting the withholding of future security assistance until Pakistan takes definitive steps towards restoring constitutional order, including the facilitation of free and fair elections that allow the participation of all political parties.
The letter prominently addresses Pakistan’s recent efforts to reinforce blasphemy laws, expressing apprehension that proposed amendments would disproportionately impact smaller religious groups and minorities. It specifically highlights the passing of the Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2023, cautioning that changes could exacerbate religious persecution and restrict freedom of religion and belief.
Initiated by Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, a vocal advocate for Muslim causes, the letter features signatories such as Frank Pallone Jr, Joaquin Castro, Summer Lee, Ted W. Lieu, Dina Titus, Lloyd Doggett, and Cori Bush. This group, associated with the progressive wing of Congress, has previously played a pivotal role in advocating for Palestinian rights and promoting various human rights causes.
While acknowledging Pakistan’s historical alliance with the United States, the lawmakers stress the necessity of addressing issues such as restrictions on freedom of expression, speech, and religion, enforced disappearances, military courts, and the alleged harassment and arrest of political opponents and human rights defenders.
The letter also emphasizes concerns related to individuals facing legal consequences in Pakistan, including PTI chief Imran Khan, who is under scrutiny for allegedly violating the Official Secrets Act. The legislators call for a careful observation of legal proceedings involving human rights defenders and political dissidents, suggesting the involvement of the US Embassy in Islamabad in this regard.
The missive concludes with an expression of hope that the United States can contribute to positive change in Pakistan, promoting human rights, democracy, and stability. The lawmakers extend an offer to collaborate with Secretary Blinken to achieve these shared objectives.
As these concerns align with a growing focus on human rights issues in Pakistan, it remains to be seen how the US Department of State will respond to these calls and whether it will impact the broader dynamics of the US-Pakistan relationship. In Washington, the delicate balance between geopolitical alliances and the promotion of democratic values underscores the complexity of navigating global diplomatic relations. The State Department has maintained a cautious stance, avoiding explicit endorsements of either the Pakistani government or the opposition during regular briefings.
