In a recent press conference held in Geneva, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk raised alarm over Pakistan’s decision to resort to military courts for the trial of civilians involved in the May 9 protests. Türk emphasized that this move is disturbing and poses a serious risk to the rule of law in the country.
The protests erupted nationwide on May 9 following the manhandling and subsequent arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan by paramilitary Rangers at the Islamabad High Court. Türk expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and the reported mass arrests under laws that he deemed problematic, potentially leading to arbitrary detentions.
Of particular concern to Türk is Pakistan’s intention to revive military courts for the trial of civilians, a move he asserted would contravene the country’s international human rights obligations. He called for prompt, impartial, and transparent investigations into the deaths and injuries that occurred during the May 9 protests.
In a separate development, the United States urged Pakistan to uphold democratic principles and human rights for all citizens. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized the importance of respecting democratic principles, freedom of expression, and the rule of law globally, including in Pakistan. However, he clarified that the U.S. did not take a position on any specific political candidate within Pakistan.
These statements come amid growing international concern about the state of human rights and the rule of law in Pakistan, prompting calls for a careful examination of the situation and a commitment to democratic values.
