WASHINGTON: A handful of lawmakers and human rights activists have urged the new Congress to take a stance against military trials of civilians in Pakistan and advocate for the repeal of undemocratic measures targeting the PTI.
The call came during a congressional briefing on Capitol Hill on Wednesday, marking PTI supporters’ first engagement with the new Congress. The briefing was aimed at informing Congress about Pakistan’s current political situation and was sponsored by Republican and Democratic lawmakers.
Party activists announced plans to introduce a resolution in the US legislature demanding full democracy in Pakistan later this year.
Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), the most vocal Muslim member of Congress, emphasized her support for the Pakistani people.
PTI supporters host Capitol briefing for incoming US Congress
“I stand in solidarity with the Pakistani people who are facing the suppression of their right to protest and vote,” he said, criticizing his government for supporting the Pakistani government’s “undemocratic actions,” particularly through unconditional military aid that, according to It harms the right of the people to elect their leaders.
“We must call for the release of political prisoners like Imran Khan,” he added.
Congressman Greg Casar (D-TX), who sponsored the briefing organized by the advocacy group First Pakistan Global, underscored the importance of peace, democracy, and human rights in Pakistan. “American taxpayer money should not support authoritarian regimes,” he commented, linking US military alliances in Latin America to the broader issue of Pakistan.
Congressman James P. McGovern (D-MA) condemned the Pakistani government’s alleged crackdown on opposition protesters, including the use of internet shutdowns and arbitrary arrests. He also called for an investigation into the government’s misuse of anti-terrorism laws and the violent crackdown on peaceful protesters.
Congressman Frank Pallone (D-NJ) expressed concern about the undemocratic nature of the recent elections in Pakistan. “Military control over the political process in Pakistan undermines democracy,” he said.
Amnesty International’s Benjamin Linden condemned the excessive use of force against peaceful protesters during the events of 26 and 27 November 2024.
“Amnesty International continues to call for a transparent investigation into these actions,” he said, urging the Pakistani government to ensure that citizens can assemble peacefully without fear of violent repression.
Yumna Rizvi, policy analyst at the Center for Victims of Torture, spoke about the growing support for the PTI despite the government’s continued crackdown on freedoms of expression and association. “The government is losing support due to widespread repression,” he said, adding that violations of fundamental freedoms are eroding trust in the state.
The event was briefly disrupted by PML-N supporters, who raised slogans, but were quickly cleared by Capitol Police.
Published in Amanecer, January 24, 2025.
