The US State Department has said that the detention of former prime minister Imran Khan is an internal matter for Pakistan. This statement was part of a broader discussion during a recent press briefing where Vedant Patel, Principal Deputy Spokesperson of the State Department, addressed various concerns involving Pakistan and Afghanistan. Patel addressed the United Nations arbitrary detention committee's declaration that Khan's detention was illegal and deferred to the UN for further clarification on their statement, emphasising that the US has no additional assessment to offer on the matter. Yesterday, a UN human rights working group stressed that the former premier's detention is arbitrary and in violation of international law, adding the jailed politician should be released immediately.

It also alleged "widespread fraud on election day, stealing dozens of parliamentary seats." The department further reiterated its call for Pakistan to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression, freedom of association, peaceful assembly, and freedom of religion. “We urge the government of Pakistan to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the freedom of expression, freedom of association, peaceful assembly, and the freedom of religion as well,” he said. To a question about the credibility of Pakistani elections and allegations of massive rigging, Patel said Pakistani elections continued to be an area of focus for the US. “This is something that we have continued to raise with our partners in Pakistan, yes. That continues to be an area of focus of ours.”

Credit: Independent News Pakistan