The Biden administration acknowledged on Tuesday that it received a letter from over 60 US Congress members urging intervention for the release of Imran Khan, founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
Matthew Miller, US State Department Spokesperson, confirmed the receipt of the letter during a press briefing, noting that the administration would respond appropriately in due course.
The correspondence, spearheaded by noted Congress members including Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib, implores President Biden to ensure Pakistani authorities guarantee Imran Khan’s safety while in custody.
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Imran Khan ousted as Pakistan’s prime minister in 2022, was jailed in August 2023 amidst various legal proceedings, which his party claims are politically motivated. Despite facing over 200 charges, Khan has been acquitted or received bail in most cases, with the remaining allegations largely stemming from incidents on May 9.
Miller emphasized that the US advocates for enduring democracy in Pakistan, highlighting a recent discussion on human rights between US Deputy Assistant Secretary for Democracy and Human Rights Monica Jacobson and Pakistan’s Human Rights Secretary in Islamabad.
The spokesperson refrained from discussing the alleged US role in the recent release of Khan’s wife and sisters, focusing instead on support for Pakistan’s civil society and democratic institutions.
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Additionally, the Congress letter stresses the importance of prioritizing human rights in US policy towards Pakistan and calls for diplomatic visits to assess Khan’s prison conditions.
This initiative marks a significant collective appeal from US legislators, led by Representative Greg Casar. They are leveraging American influence to advocate for Khan’s release and address broader human rights concerns within Pakistan.
