WASHINGTON: The US State Department has once again emphasized that the ongoing legal matters involving Imran Khan, founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), are solely for Pakistani courts to resolve.
State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller stated, “As we have said many times, legal proceedings against the former prime minister are matters for the Pakistani courts to decide.”
During a press briefing on Wednesday, Miller also dismissed claims of US involvement in Khan’s removal from office. He said, “The allegations that the US played any role in his ouster are false.”
Miller pointed out that he has discussed this topic “any number of times from this podium.” He added, “Ultimately, Pakistani politics is a matter for the Pakistani people to decide in accordance with their laws and constitution.”
His comments came after a journalist mentioned US diplomat Donald Lu’s alleged role in Khan’s removal. Khan has been in Adiala jail since August last year. He accused the US of orchestrating his ouster in 2022, citing a supposed cipher related to the US envoy.
Miller also addressed the situation regarding members of Congress who wrote to President Joe Biden, advocating for Khan’s release. He noted how these lawmakers faced ridicule on social media. “I can tell you, we don’t know who is behind circulating that information ultimately,” he said. “But if people have issues they want to discuss about US officials, they should focus on the merits of those issues, not personal attacks based on religion or sexual orientation.”
Earlier this week, the State Department confirmed receiving a letter signed by 60 Congresspersons urging the Biden administration to support democracy and human rights in Pakistan. “We will respond in due course to the members,” Miller stated.
The letter, sent on October 23, called for the release of Imran Khan and other political prisoners. It also pointed out the crackdown on internet and social media platforms, as well as alleged election irregularities.
Through their correspondence, the Congress members urged Biden to leverage US influence with Islamabad to secure Khan’s release. The Foreign Office of Pakistan criticized this move as “contrary to inter-state conduct and diplomatic norms.”
