The United States has expressed concern over the recent arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders and raids on its offices, highlighting the importance of democratic values and the rule of law.
During a press briefing, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller addressed the issue, emphasizing the need for justice and adherence to constitutional principles in Pakistan.
"We have seen the reports of the arrests of PTI leaders. We are always concerned when we see arrests of opposition leaders," Miller stated. He further remarked in jest that he was personally concerned about the arrest of any spokesperson, evoking a laughter in the room.
Also Read: PTI central secretariat sealed once again
Miller reiterated the US's commitment to supporting democratic values, justice, and the rule of law. "We support the peaceful upholding of constitutional and democratic principles, including the rule of law, equal justice under the law, and respect for human rights like freedom of expression and freedom of peaceful assembly," he affirmed.
He also pointed out that these principles were enshrined in the Pakistani Constitution and should be upheld by the government. "We urge that these principles be respected in accordance with Pakistan’s Constitution and laws," Miller added.
Also Read: PTI chairman Barrister Gohar confirms Raoof Hasan 'arrested'
On Tuesday, the Islamabad Metropolitan Corporation sealed the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) central office once again. The building was sealed on the pretext of lack of fire safety arrangements.
This development came after PTI spokesman Raoof Hasan was arrested from the party's central secretariat in Islamabad, as the police also took away record and computers with them. It was also reported that PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan had also been arrested, but those reports were later denied.
