The Foreign Office, in a statement released on Saturday, expressed its astonishment at the critical stance adopted by certain foreign nations and organizations regarding Pakistan’s general elections held on February 8.
Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, the spokesperson for the FO, highlighted, “We find it perplexing that some of these remarks fail to grasp the intricacies of the electoral process and neglect to recognize the extensive and enthusiastic participation of millions of Pakistani voters.” Baloch underscored that such statements dismiss the peaceful and successful conduct of the elections in Pakistan, despite significant security challenges primarily stemming from terrorism sponsored by foreign entities.
Acknowledging the receipt of these statements, the FO conveyed that it had duly taken note of them. Concerns were raised by Western capitals on Friday regarding alleged undue constraints during the February 8 elections, alongside apprehensions about potential electoral fraud.
However, they expressed readiness to collaborate with the forthcoming government regardless. Independently, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union called upon Pakistani authorities to ensure a swift and thorough investigation into reported irregularities from Thursday’s electoral proceedings.
Lacked factual basis
The FO clarified that certain assertions lacked factual basis, particularly regarding the absence of a nationwide internet shutdown, with only mobile services being suspended due to security threats on election day. “The electoral process has effectively dispelled many of the concerns raised by critics,” the spokesperson remarked.
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While recognizing the value of advice, the spokesperson criticized the nature of criticism as unconstructive and lacking objectivity, particularly given the ongoing electoral process.
“While we value constructive advice from our friends, making negative commentary even before the completion of the electoral process is neither constructive nor objective,” the FO said.
Emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to fostering a stable and democratic society, the statement reiterated that elections were conducted as part of this commitment, rather than in response to external pressures.
The FO reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering dedication to nurturing a robust democratic framework, asserting that each election and peaceful transition of power brings the nation closer to this vision, driven not by external concerns but by the aspirations of its people and the ideals of its founding fathers.