US Assistant Secretary of State Donald Lu has categorically denied allegations suggesting the United States played any role in the removal of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan from the position of Prime Minister.
Lu’s statement came during a hearing conducted by the US Congress Committee regarding the 2024 general elections in Pakistan, where he provided testimony on the matter.
Asserting respect for Pakistan’s sovereignty, he emphasized that the allegations of US involvement in Imran Khan's removal were baseless.
Addressing concerns surrounding the safety of an American citizen, the Assistant Secretary of State underscored the seriousness with which the United States approaches threats against its citizens. He clarified that any charges related to the cipher were unfounded and based on waivers.
Reflecting on Pakistan's history and the challenges it has faced, Lowe highlighted the nation's resilience, particularly in the context of the Afghan war's impact. He noted the significant participation of women and youth in the recent elections, despite instances of election rigging, violence, and threats.
Expressing concern over reported election abuses and violent incidents, the Assistant Secretary of State condemned attacks on media workers and restrictions imposed on internet and telecommunication during the electoral process. He reiterated the United States' commitment to upholding human rights standards and underscored the need for fair and transparent elections in Pakistan.
Relations with the Taliban government
US Assistant Secretary of State, Donald Lu, highlighted Pakistan’s complex relationship with the Taliban.
Donald Lowe underscored the longstanding conflict surrounding Afghanistan, which has significantly impacted Pakistan's regional dynamics for four decades.
Highlighting the conclusion of the Afghan conflict, Lowe emphasized the array of opportunities it presents, including the chance for the United States to recalibrate its relationship with Pakistan on its own terms.
As the US Assistant Secretary for South Asia, Lowe reiterated the paramount objective of supporting the Pakistani people amidst the ongoing challenges posed by terrorism.
Pak-Iran gas pipeline
He also expressed concerns about the strain in Pakistan's ties with Iran, particularly due to the Iran gas pipeline project. He emphasized the importance of monitoring the funding for the gas pipeline and reiterated the US’s close watch on the Pakistan-Iran gas pipeline project.
Addressing questions about the role of women in Pakistan, Lowe noted the increasing participation of women in various sectors, including politics, judiciary, and bureaucracy. He acknowledged the significant contributions of women in small businesses and their growing presence across different fields in Pakistan.
ECP to ensure accountability
“We urge the Election Commission of Pakistan to ensure accountability for irregularities,” stated Donald Lu. He emphasized the need for transparency and urged the Election Commission of Pakistan to hold those responsible accountable.
He highlighted the formation of a high-level committee by the Commission to address thousands of petitions, indicating a commitment to oversight. Additionally, he pledged support to the government and ECP in facilitating a transparent electoral process.
Despite violence and threats, voters came out
During a discussion on Pakistan's elections, the US Assistant Secretary for South Asia reflected on his past experience in Peshawar three decades ago. Despite witnessing election rigging, violence, and threats, he noted the resilience of Pakistani voters who participated in the electoral process.
Highlighting historical context, he recalled the rivalry between Nawaz Sharif and Benazir Bhutto during that period, shedding light on the political landscape of the time.
Following recent elections, the US State Department issued a statement condemning restrictions on freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly. The statement addressed concerns over electoral violence, attacks on media workers, and limitations on internet access and telecommunications services.
Expressing apprehensions regarding allegations of electoral interference, the assistant secretary stressed the importance of thorough investigations into claims of fraud or interference.
Pakistan – an important partner of America
Donald Lu emphasized Pakistan’s significance as a key ally of the United States, affirming a commitment to bolstering country’s democratic institutions.
Highlighting the US-Pakistan Green Alliance framework, Lowe underscored collaborative efforts in countering terrorism threats while promoting the respect of human rights, including religious freedoms.
Acknowledging America’s role in fostering economic stability, Lowe noted its substantial contributions to Pakistan's export sector and critical infrastructure development. Notably, the US government's involvement in the renovation of Mangala and Tarbela dams was highlighted, pivotal in providing electricity to millions of Pakistanis.
Over the decades, Lowe emphasized ongoing support through development grants, private sector investments, and humanitarian aid, particularly during crises like recent floods.
Addressing Pakistan's escalating debt challenges, Lowe stressed the need for economic reforms and increased private sector-led investments, given the substantial portion of the federal government's revenue allocated to debt repayment.
Ultimately, Lowe reiterated the shared goal of fostering a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous Pakistan, reaffirming continued efforts towards realizing this vision.
Mobile data services on election day
On election day, despite the directives from the High Court, authorities opted to shut down mobile data services. However, amidst these challenges, there were also positive aspects observed in these elections.
Addressing the situation, the US Assistant Secretary for South Asia, highlighted that despite the looming threats of violence, over 60 million Pakistanis cast their votes, with over 21 million women participating in the electoral process.
He noted a significant increase in the representation of women in parliament compared to the 2018 elections, alongside the active involvement of members from religious and minority groups, as well as youth, in contesting parliamentary seats.
Furthermore, he pointed out that multiple political parties secured seats in both national and provincial assemblies, with the leadership across all four provinces of Pakistan now representing three different political parties.
Lu also mentioned the presence of over 5,000 independent observers on the ground, acknowledging that while the electoral process was largely competitive and orderly, some irregularities were observed during the compilation of results.
