Democratic Congressman Greg Casar, during an interview with Dr. Moeed Pirzada, CEO and Editor of Global Village Space Publications, admitted that U.S. foreign policy in countries like Pakistan has long relied on backing military leadership over democratic governance—a strategy he acknowledged as deeply flawed. Reflecting on U.S. interventions in Latin America, where the U.S. propped up military regimes in places like Guatemala and Chile, Casar pointed out that this approach was justified by viewing these rulers as ‘our bad guys,’ despite the harm inflicted on local populations.
Congressman Casar admitted that a similar pattern is now emerging in Pakistan, where Washington risks sidelining democratic choice in favor of military influence. He underscored that the U.S. should prioritize the right of Pakistanis to elect their leaders, whether that choice is Imran Khan or others, without external imposition. His remarks signal a critical need for a shift in U.S. foreign policy—one that steps away from reliance on military elites and aligns with democratic principles and human rights as universal, unwavering standards.
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A Letter from 60 Members of Congress
Congressman Casar, alongside Congresswoman Barbara Lee and Congressman James McGovern, authored a letter signed by more than 60 Congress members, directed to the Biden administration.
Proud to join @RepCasar, @RepSummerLee, and 59 other colleagues in urging @POTUS Biden and @SecBlinken to make clear: Pakistan must respect its human rights obligations, end the practice of arbitrary detention, and release all prisoners of conscience. https://t.co/QVA3ue9J9t
— Rep. Jim McGovern (@RepMcGovern) October 24, 2024
The letter demands U.S. intervention in response to Pakistan’s democratic backsliding and the detention of political prisoners, including former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Casar emphasized that democracy is strengthened when citizens can freely elect their leaders, arguing that military influence has disrupted the democratic rights of Pakistanis. During the interview, he stated:
“This initiative…comes because we have been waiting for months for the United States to do everything it can to make things better.”
In response to a question asked by Dr. Pirzada, the Congressman said that the U.S. has yet to fully address its concerns with Pakistan’s deteriorating democratic standards, despite promises from the State Department. The letter is an urgent call to action, urging the Biden administration to pressure the Pakistani government into releasing political detainees and respecting democratic norms.
Read my full press release with co-leads @RepMcGovern and @RepSummerLee: https://t.co/5yMtNasitj
— Congressman Greg Casar (@RepCasar) October 23, 2024
A Call for Accountability in U.S.-Pakistan Relations
During the interview, Congressman Greg Casar expressed frustration with the U.S. State Department’s reliance on Pakistan’s judiciary to “sort this all out,” citing increased authoritarian repression. He called for holding Pakistan to a high democratic standard, particularly given the U.S.’s history of security assistance to the Pakistani military. Casar stated:
“We can’t just say, ‘Well, you know, that is something for Pakistanis to sort out,’ when Pakistanis are trying to reclaim their democracy and are facing repression.”
Casar highlighted the significance of civilian oversight in U.S. foreign policy, reflecting a commitment to hold Pakistan accountable for human rights abuses. This stance is rooted in America’s democratic values, which Casar argues should be upheld in its international alliances.
Increasing U.S. Pressure to Support Democratic Reforms
The Congressman pointed to recent acknowledgments from U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Blinken, regarding election irregularities in Pakistan. However, he criticized the lack of meaningful action from the White House, pressing for further engagement to prevent Pakistan from drifting away from democratic principles. Casar remarked that, although President Biden has championed democracy throughout his career, the administration must now demonstrate this commitment globally:
“It is an important way for us to bring attention to this issue so it isn’t forgotten…”
Casar also highlighted the role of Pakistani Americans, who voiced their concerns by reaching out to Congress. These citizens have underscored the urgency of a policy shift, which has drawn support from over 60 lawmakers. Casar credited Pakistani Americans for playing a pivotal role in amplifying this issue.
Reconsidering Military Alliances in Pakistan
During the interview, Dr. Moeed Pirzada referenced his discussions with U.S. officials who view Pakistan’s military as the primary stable institution for managing relations. Casar, however, stressed the need to move beyond this outdated perspective. He believes that the future of Pakistan lies with its democratic leaders and civil society, not solely with its military establishment.
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He observed that U.S. foreign policy traditionally relied on military alliances but insisted that this model no longer serves America’s long-term interests in the region, especially amid growing strategic competition with India and China. Casar noted:
“There is now [a movement] of everyday people who are saying this vision of the past that U.S. foreign policy is military, working with military…hasn’t worked.”
This acknowledgment suggests a gradual shift in U.S. Congress, recognizing the value of engaging with civilian leadership in Pakistan rather than relying exclusively on military channels.
Next Steps for U.S. Lawmakers and Pakistani Advocates
Casar outlined potential next steps in advocating for democracy in Pakistan. These include exploring visa bans, asset freezes, and other measures against Pakistani elites who erode democratic standards. He clarified that these measures are intended to target those responsible for repression, not to penalize the Pakistani public. He commented:
“We want to stand in solidarity with everyday people and not hurt the people in the country…we’re starting to talk about what accountability would look like.”
Casar’s letter urges the U.S. to signal to Pakistani authorities that continued repression of political freedoms will not go unanswered. If political prisoners are not released and democratic reforms ignored, he stressed that more stringent accountability measures may follow.
Watch the full interview below: