Monday, the United States stated that the people of Pakistan have the right to protest. But that they must refrain from violence.
Vedant Patel, US State Department spokesperson, did not address Imran Khan’s incarceration last week during an afternoon news briefing. However, he did state that all arrests should adhere to local law.
At the Monday briefing, the spokesperson was asked specifically about the violence that followed the Islamabad court’s arrest of the former prime minister.
Mr. Patel responded, “First and foremost, we believe that individuals should have the freedom to express themselves. But without engaging in any violence that would put government employees and government buildings at risk.”
However, when asked to comment on Mr. Khan’s detention, the spokesperson stated that the United States “has no position on any political party or candidate.”
“In our opinion, a robust, stable, and prosperous Pakistan is indispensable for US-Pakistan relations. “And that for any arrests of such a candidate, basic human rights are accorded by their laws,” he added.
Mr. Patel was similarly circumspect when asked to comment on Imran Khan’s assertion that journalists in Pakistan are not permitted to present the opposing viewpoint. “I will not be optimistic about the current circumstance. “From this vantage point, I have no assessment to offer,” he stated.
After Mr. Khan’s arrest, UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for nonviolence.
In proceedings brought against the former prime minister, he urged Pakistani authorities to respect due process and the rule of law, and he emphasized the need to respect the right to civil assembly.
