New York, 11 May 2023 (GNP): Following the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan, the United Nations (UN) has voiced deep concern over growing lawlessness in Pakistan and urged all parties to maintain peace and abstain from violence.
António Guterres, Secretary General of the UN, has urged adherence to the rule of law and respect for due process while highlighting the significance of peaceful protest and law enforcement.
The recent detention of Imran Khan on Tuesday has caused massive agitation and protests across the country.
In a country dealing with economic difficulties and a postponed IMF bailout, violent conflicts have broken out, claiming lives and worsening an already precarious situation.
Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General, relayed Guterres’ call for all parties, in response to the crisis’ growing intensity, to show discipline and respect the right to peaceful assembly.
Farhan Haq emphasized the significance of legal compliance on the part of law enforcement in addressing Khan’s issue.
“The Secretary-General urges the authorities to respect due process and the rule of law in proceedings brought against former Prime Minister Khan,” stated the spokesperson.
Imran Khan, a widely regarded politician in Pakistan, was detained on suspicion of a land fraud case, triggering widespread demonstrations.
Protesters stormed military installations, vandalized property, and even targeted the residence of a senior army general in Lahore.
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This predicament led to the government’s approval of army deployment in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad, three strongholds of Khan’s support.
However, the military has shown restraint thus far but issued a stern warning that any further assaults on its personnel, law enforcement agencies, or state installations would be met with severe retaliation.
Imran Khan’s arrest is an internal matter of Pakistan: UK PM Rishi Sunak
United Kingdom (UK) expressed its concern over the ongoing violent protests and chaos in Pakistan following Khan’s arrest in the Al-Qadir Trust case.
According to UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Britain is carefully monitoring the situation.
“The arrest of the former prime minister is an internal matter for Pakistan. We support peaceful democratic processes and adherence to the rule of law, and we are monitoring the situation carefully”, said Sunak.
UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly reaffirmed his wish to see “peaceful democracy” in Pakistan on his visit to the US and highlighted the need of upholding the rule of law.
