U.S. Expresses Concerns Over Electoral Process in Pakistan, Pledges Cooperation with Future Government
Washington, The Gulf Observer: On Friday, the United States raised concerns about what it termed as “undue restrictions” during Pakistan’s recent electoral process and expressed apprehension regarding allegations of vote-rigging. Despite these concerns, the U.S. pledged to collaborate with whomever emerges as the next government following Thursday’s election.
As the vote counting process continued, candidates affiliated with the incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan were leading the tally. Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) surprisingly outperformed expectations amid a crackdown on the party. However, it was anticipated that the next government would likely be formed through political negotiations by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).
Matthew Miller, the State Department spokesman, emphasized the U.S.’s expectation for “timely, complete results that reflect the will of the Pakistani people.” In an official statement, Miller expressed Washington’s shared concerns with the electoral process, citing “undue restrictions on freedoms of expression, association, and peaceful assembly,” a sentiment aligned with assessments from credible international and local election observers.
The statement from the U.S. condemned electoral violence and voiced unease over allegations of interference in the electoral process, emphasizing the necessity for a thorough investigation into claims of interference or fraud.
Despite these reservations, Miller underscored that the Biden administration is “prepared to work with the next Pakistani government, regardless of political party, to advance our shared interests.” These interests encompass various facets, including trade, investment, and security cooperation.
The U.S.’s diplomatic stance reflects its commitment to engaging with Pakistan in a collaborative manner, irrespective of the political dynamics that shape the composition of the next government. As the election results unfold, the international community will closely watch developments in Pakistan, hoping for a transparent and democratic outcome that accurately reflects the will of the Pakistani people.
