In a recent address to the US House floor, Congressman Brad Sherman shed light on the current situation in Pakistan and expressed his views on the country’s leadership and the rule of law. He highlighted the United States’ stance on democracy and the rule of law, stating that America’s priority is to uphold democratic values and the rule of law, rather than to find a leader who is favourable or pro-American. He noted that while Imran Khan might be more difficult for the United States to deal with than Sharif, democracy and the rule of law remain the priority for the country.
See my speech from the House Floor on democracy in #Pakistan ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/HBONErlun7
— Congressman Brad Sherman (@BradSherman) April 28, 2023
Sherman also emphasized the importance of the Supreme Court of Pakistan’s decision to hold provincial elections in Punjab and KPK, which he said is the rule of law and unappealable. He underscored the significance of the upcoming national elections in Pakistan, calling for them to be timely, legitimate, and fair. Congressman Sherman stated that nothing is more important for Pakistan than having timely, legitimate, and fair elections, where whoever wins is allowed to govern.
Moreover, Congressman Sherman addressed the issue of human rights abuses in Pakistan, expressing concern about the evidence of torture in the country. He reiterated that the United States stands for human rights and free speech, and values these principles in its relationships with other countries.
It is refreshing to see a politician like Congressman Sherman speak candidly about the need for democracy and the rule of law in Pakistan. His remarks make it clear that the United States is committed to upholding democratic values and human rights in its relationships with other countries. It is important for countries like Pakistan to have leaders who respect democratic principles and the rule of law, and to hold free and fair elections that allow for peaceful transfers of power.
Congressman Sherman‘s remarks serve as a reminder to all leaders and politicians that the United States will not compromise on its commitment to democratic values and human rights. Pakistan stands in a spotlight, and hence, it needs to show the world that it values principles of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
Read More: Pakistani Americans lobby Congress
Prior to the speech, Congressman Sherman had sent a letter to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, urging the US government to take action on the issue. Congressman Sherman’s remarks were part of a broader conversation in Congress about the situation in Pakistan. Previously, other elected officials, including Senators Van Hollen and Congressman Levin, and Congresswoman Dingell, also expressed concern about human rights abuses in Pakistan. They called for the US government to prioritize the promotion of human rights and democracy in its foreign policy towards Pakistan.
Pakistani Americans have been mobilizing to lobby Congress on the issue. They have been raising awareness about the human rights abuses currently taking place in Pakistan, such as the persecution of journalists, and suppression of political dissent. The situation in Pakistan has become a pressing concern for many in the international community. Human rights organizations have documented numerous violations, including enforced disappearances, and torture.