Washington, US

The US House of Representatives passed a resolution on Wednesday (June 26), backed by both Democrats and Republicans, supporting democracy and human rights in Pakistan.

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It also calls for a full investigation, independent of any influence, into claims of problems with February elections in that country.

Pakistan's general elections, held on February 8, were plagued by violence, with nationwide internet shutdown, arrests and oddly delayed results. These issues led to claims that the polling process had been rigged.

Also read: Pakistan elections 2024: Army modifies methodology of selecting PM

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The resolution was passed by an overwhelming 368-7 vote on Tuesday and called on US President Joe Biden to tie up with Pakistan in upholding democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

Lawmakers who supported the resolution titled ‘Expressing Support for Democracy and Human Rights in Pakistan’, pointed to the strong bipartisan vote as evidence of the US’ unwavering commitment to promoting democratic values globally.

The resolution emphasised the need for Pakistani public participation in the democratic process and denounced "any effort to subvert the political, electoral or judicial processes of Pakistan".

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The resolution further condemns any effort to suppress the Pakistani people's democratic participation, including tactics like harassment, intimidation, violence, arbitrary detention, internet and telecommunication restrictions, or any infringement upon their fundamental human, civil, and political rights.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and PTI chief Imran Khan, who is currently in jail, are also opposing the election results. PTI was forced to field independents without their iconic bat symbol because of a legal tussle with the Election Commission of Pakistan.

Even though the PTI-backed independents won the maximum seats, Nawaz Sharif's Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari-led Pakistan People's Party formed a coalition government, leaving PTI and other parties in opposition.

Pakistan criticises resolution

Pakistan's foreign office acknowledged the US House resolution but expressed concerns that it reflects a misunderstanding of the country's political landscape and recent elections.

Also read: Pakistan Elections 2024 to be declared null and void?

"The context of this resolution do not line up well with the positive dynamics of our bilateral ties and is based on an incomplete understanding of the political situation and electoral process in Pakistan," Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch was quoted as saying by Pakistan's The Express Tribune newspaper.

(With inputs from agencies)