OTTAWA, Canada: A group of Canadian lawmakers have expressed “grave concern over the situation unfolding in Pakistan” and sent a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, urging him to help address the escalating human rights violations in the country.
The letter from the Canadian lawmakers reflects the growing global concern over the human rights situation in Pakistan. The lawmakers’ concerns come amidst an ongoing crackdown by the PDM government on leaders and workers of the Imran-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). It is to mention here that PTI chairman Imran Khan’s residence in Lahore’s Zaman Park was violently raided twice, and he claimed that over 7,500 party workers, including women, children have been arrested by the police.
The letter, signed by 16 Canadian lawmakers who are members of the Canada-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Group, highlighted the importance of the right to peaceful protest and strongly condemned all acts of violence, arbitrary arrests, and the urgent need for fair trials in the country’s civilian courts.
Today, as chair of the Canada-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Group, I sent a letter signed by 16 MPs to Prime Minister Trudeau regarding the situation in Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/ne7lXGkIp7
— Salma Zahid (@SalmaZahid15) May 19, 2023
As representatives of their constituents, particularly thousands of Pakistani-Canadians, the lawmakers stressed the fundamental nature of democracy, the rule of law, and freedom of expression in any society, underscoring the importance of upholding these principles without compromise in Pakistan.
The Canadian lawmakers condemned all forms of violence in Pakistan and expressed concerns over the ‘unlawful’ arrests of innocent civilians, activists, journalists and political leaders. They drew attention to the targeting of children and women, emphasising the need for their rights to be protected. The lawmakers demanded that individuals facing charges be granted fair and transparent trials in civilian courts, ensuring due process and upholding the independence of the legal system.
Concerns surrounding Imran Khan’s arrest
The letter also highlighted a recent ruling by the country’s top court, Supreme Court of Pakistan, which deemed the arrest of former premier Imran Khan ‘illegal’ and unjust. While the lawmakers refrained from commenting on the veracity of the charges against PTI’s Imran Khan, they, however, emphasised the importance of prompt and transparent court proceedings, allowing the independent legal system to carry out its duties.
Recognising the longstanding friendship between Canada and Pakistan, the lawmakers urged PM Trudeau to reaffirm Ottawa’s commitment to justice, democracy, and human rights, both within Pakistan and globally. They stressed the significance of Pakistanis having the autonomy to determine their own destiny through free and fair elections, governed by the principles of the rule of law and respect for human rights.
The Canadian lawmakers pledged to closely monitor the situation in Pakistan and maintain unwavering advocacy democracy. They anticipated a timely and substantive response from Prime Minister Trudeau, acknowledging that democracy and justice will ultimately prevail.
