In a dramatic turn of events, two US congressmen have united in a bipartisan effort, introducing a bill that aims to impose sanctions on Pakistani officials accused of human rights violations, particularly against former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Spearheaded by Republican Joe Wilson and Democrat Jimmy Panetta, the Pakistan Democracy Act has been sent to the relevant House committees for consideration.
Under the proposed legislation, sanctions could target Pakistan’s army chief if no significant measures to rectify human rights issues are taken within 180 days. This act seeks to leverage the US Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, enabling visa denials to those implicated in violations.
Additionally, the bill dictates that the US government must pinpoint and sanction officials involved in the repression of political opposition in Pakistan. However, should Pakistan cease military interference in the civilian governance realm and release wrongly detained political figures, the president has the power to lift these sanctions.
The bill appears to be a culmination of persistent lobbying by PTI supporters in the US, who have actively sought to influence American lawmakers since Imran Khan’s ousting in 2022. For three years, these activists have rallied, engaged congress members, and campaigned for increased US intervention in Pakistan’s political landscape.
In June 2024, a similar resolution highlighting the importance of democracy in Pakistan garnered overwhelming bipartisan support, passing with 98 per cent approval. This previous resolution urged then-president Biden to push for the protection of democratic ideals and the rule of law in Pakistan, yet the Biden administration has not taken substantive action.
US lawmakers have introduced the Pakistan Democracy Act, seeking sanctions against Pakistani officials over human rights violations, especially against former PM Imran Khan. Proposed sanctions would affect military leaders unless human rights conditions improve. The act aims to ensure accountability and reflects ongoing US advocacy for democracy in Pakistan.
The introduction of the Pakistan Democracy Act signals a significant step by US lawmakers in addressing alleged human rights abuses in Pakistan. With bipartisan support, the bill mandates sanctions against key officials unless progressive changes occur in the country’s human rights landscape. This move highlights the ongoing advocacy efforts by PTI supporters and reflects the complex political relationship between the US and Pakistan.
Original Source: tribune.com.pk
