More than 40 US lawmakers have urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio to take notice of what they describe as a “worsening human rights crisis” in Pakistan under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir. The lawmakers expressed deep concern over growing repression, shrinking democratic space, and threats faced by even US citizens who criticize the current regime.
In a letter dated December 3, the lawmakers warned that Pakistan’s military backed government is involved in “transnational repression,” targeting overseas Pakistanis and their families through intimidation, harassment, arbitrary detentions, and retaliatory actions. They said these practices violate the right to freedom of expression protected under Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.
The letter also raised alarms about “foreign interference on US soil,” urging Washington to consider strict measures including visa restrictions and freezing assets against officials responsible for human rights violations and political suppression in Pakistan.
The lawmakers further called for a thorough investigation into Pakistan’s 2024 general elections, which they said were marred by irregularities. Citing the Pattan Report and concerns voiced earlier by the US State Department, they argued that the elections installed a controlled civilian government while undermining democratic institutions.
According to the letter, Pakistan is now facing a growing wave of authoritarianism, with basic freedoms being curbed and political dissent suppressed at multiple levels.
