The US State Department has called on Pakistan to uphold fundamental human rights following a United Nations working body’s criticism of the US Urges Pakistan to Uphold Human Rights and Imran Khan’s Detention as “politically motivated.”
During a press briefing, Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel emphasized the US’s consistent stance on human rights, citing remarks by Secretary of State Antony Blinken and other officials urging Pakistan to adhere to its constitutional and international obligations.
The response was part of Patel’s comments on a query about a US House of Representatives resolution that seeks an investigation into the February 8 elections, a topic on which he declined to comment. Patel stressed respecting human rights, including freedom of expression, association, peaceful assembly, and religion.
Read: UN Demands Immediate Release of Imran Khan, Cites Arbitrary Detention
The Geneva-based UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention declared Imran Khan’s detention arbitrary and contrary to international law, recommending his immediate release and compensation. The group highlighted the detention as part of broader repressive actions against Khan and PTI, noting disruptions and alleged abuses during the 2024 elections, including claims of extensive election day fraud.
Addressing queries on the credibility of Pakistan’s elections and allegations of widespread rigging, Patel acknowledged the US’s ongoing focus on these issues with Pakistani counterparts. However, regarding Imran Khan’s detention, he reiterated that it remains an internal matter for Pakistan.
