16 members of the Canadian Parliament have written to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, expressing “grave concern over the situation unfolding in Pakistan”, urging him to address the escalating human rights violations in the country.
According to the details, Salma Zahid, who is the Chairman of the Canada-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Group, shared the letter on her Twitter account.
In the letter to PM Trudeau, Canadian lawmakers denounced all forms of violence in Pakistan and expressed distress over the unlawful arrests of innocent civilians, journalists, activists, and political leaders.
Read more: Thousands sign petition demanding action against human rights violations in Pakistan
The lawmakers demanded that individuals facing charges be granted fair and transparent trials in civilian courts, ensuring due process and upholding the independence of the legal system.
Recognizing the longstanding friendship between Canada and Pakistan, the lawmakers urged Prime Minister Trudeau to reaffirm Ottawa’s commitment to justice, democracy, and human rights, both within Pakistan and globally.
Today, as chair of the Canada-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Group, I sent a letter signed by 16 MPs to Prime Minister Trudeau regarding the situation in Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/ne7lXGkIp7
— Salma Zahid (@SalmaZahid15) May 19, 2023
Furthermore, the Canadian lawmakers assured that they will closely monitor the situation in Pakistan and remain unwavering in their advocacy for democracy. They expect a timely and substantive response from Prime Minister Trudeau, acknowledging that democracy and justice will ultimately prevail.
US lawmakers demand action against Pakistan’s human rights crisis
The timing of the letter is crucial as it comes just days after the arrest of former prime minister Imran Khan which led to widespread chaos and massive protests throughout the nation.
At least 10 lives were lost and numerous individuals sustained injuries during the violent protests, resulting in the apprehension of not only the party leaders but also thousands of PTI workers by the authorities in a massive crackdown.
The violent protests and the subsequent action by the government, which included arrests, re-arrests, and suspension of internet services across the country sparked international alarm.
66 members of the US Congress have also written to Secretary of State Blinken, asking him to exert pressure on the Pakistani government in order to address the continually worsening human rights violations in the country.
The letter, which was co-authored by Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, expressed the US lawmakers’ concerns over the democratic backsliding and human rights abuses in Pakistan.
Read more: 66 US Congressmen urge Blinken to take action on Pakistan’s human rights crisis