Prominent nations and international bodies have responded to the Pakistan general elections, reflecting on the results and incidents that occurred before and during the polls. Some have called on Pakistani authorities to honor the public’s choices and the mandates of the election winners.
The discussions have also delved into matters concerning Imran Khan, and the PTI, and expressed apprehension about instances of violence and human rights violations. Let’s read what these countries had to say.
United States:
Matthew Miller from the US State Department expressed concerns about the elections. They agree with credible international and local observers that the elections had limitations on freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly. The US condemns electoral violence, restrictions on human rights, attacks on media workers, and limitations on internet access. They call for a thorough investigation into claims of interference or fraud.
United Kingdom:
Lord Cameron, the Foreign Secretary, acknowledges serious concerns about the fairness and inclusivity of the elections. They regret that not all parties were allowed to participate, and legal processes were used to prevent some political leaders from taking part. The UK also notes restrictions on internet access, delays in reporting results, and claims of irregularities in the counting process. The UK urges Pakistan to uphold human rights, including free access to information and adherence to due process.
European Union:
Peter Stano, the Lead Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, expresses regret about the lack of a level playing field due to restrictions on some political actors, freedom of assembly, and freedom of expression. The EU calls for a timely and thorough investigation of reported election irregularities and the implementation of recommendations from the EU Election Expert Mission report. The EU condemns violence and calls on all parties to use peaceful and democratic means to settle differences. They emphasize the importance of democratic values, independent media, civil society, judicial independence, and human rights standards for democratic elections. The EU urges all political actors in Pakistan to engage in a peaceful and inclusive dialogue for the formation of a stable government while respecting human rights.
Australia:
Australia also reacted to the general elections in Pakistan, its results, and the events that happened during the polling and before the voting.
In a statement, the Australian government said: As a friend of Pakistan, Australia has consistently called for a free, fair, inclusive, and credible election process—in line with Pakistan’s Constitution and its international obligations.
We express our condolences for the loss of life incurred by terrorist attacks in the lead-up to and during elections. Australia welcomes the increase in the number of women registered to vote and the fact that millions of Pakistanis chose to vote.
It is regrettable, however, that the Pakistani people were restricted in their choice since not all political parties were allowed to contest these elections.
Australia supports a democratic, stable, and prosperous Pakistan which upholds its commitments to democratic principles including human rights, media freedoms, freedom of expression, and freedom of association.
As a long-standing partner, we look forward to working with Pakistan towards a shared vision of an open, stable, prosperous, and inclusive region.
