ISLAMABAD: External interference in Pakistan’s politics has prompted a strong reaction from over 100 lawmakers. They have sent a letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, raising concerns about a recent communication from US Congress members. This letter called on President Joe Biden to advocate for the release of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan.
The lawmakers expressed their worries, stating, “We write to express our concerns over the unwarranted and inaccurate commentary on Pakistan’s domestic politics by 62 Members of the US House of Representatives.” They described the views of the US lawmakers as a “skewed view of realities.” This assertion highlights their belief that external interference undermines Pakistan’s political landscape.
The letter is signed by 160 Pakistani parliamentarians, including key figures from major political parties. They argue that the US Congress’s request to President Biden represents “external interference” and promotes a political narrative that favors one party, diminishing the role of Pakistan’s state institutions and other political groups.
This response follows a call from US lawmakers urging President Biden to leverage his position to secure the release of political prisoners, including former prime minister Khan. The letter also requests that US embassy officials be allowed to visit Khan, who has been imprisoned at Adiala Jail for over a year.
