Days after a group of 62 US lawmakers called on President Joe Biden to advocate for the release of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, over 100 Pakistani parliamentarians have sent a letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemning what they see as external interference. Signed by 160 members, including leaders from major political parties, the letter argues that the US representatives’ stance represents “a skewed view of realities” and an attempt to unduly influence Pakistan’s internal matters.
Concerns Over Diplomatic Norms The Pakistani lawmakers voiced strong objections, stating that the US appeal to President Biden over Khan’s detention is “external interference” and promotes a narrative that disregards Pakistan’s state institutions. They asserted that such actions are “contrary to inter-state conduct and diplomatic norms.” Pakistani Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch has also labelled the US lawmakers’ letter as inappropriate.
‘Unfair Influence on Judicial Process’ The letter alleges that US representatives are “influenced by blatant disinformation” circulated by Khan’s political supporters, aiming to delegitimize Pakistan’s political institutions and judiciary. The parliamentarians warned that such commentary could “unfairly influence the judicial process,” undermining the legitimacy of Pakistan’s courts.
Response to Historical Tensions The Pakistani lawmakers highlighted past diplomatic tensions between Islamabad and Washington, including June’s US “House Resolution 901” which urged an impartial probe into alleged irregularities in Pakistan’s February 8 elections. Pakistani legislators quickly condemned that resolution as interference, terming it “contrary to facts.” The lawmakers’ recent letter reiterates that narrative, arguing that external commentary is unwarranted.
Digital Disinformation and Social Media Concerns The Pakistani parliamentarians expressed concerns about the misuse of social media as a tool for “Digital Terrorism” that fuels unrest and targets the state. They criticized PTI’s founder for promoting political violence, claiming he instigated his supporters to disrupt public order in Islamabad and Lahore.
A Call for Diplomatic Engagement The letter urged the Pakistani government to direct its diplomatic mission in Washington to engage with US Congress members, including the Pakistani caucus, to share a balanced perspective and caution them against relying on politically charged narratives. They added that political and diplomatic communications must remain neutral and respect national sovereignty.
