The US has expressed deep concern over the conviction of 25 civilians by a military court in Pakistan, citing lack of judicial independence, transparency and due process.
Speaking on the issue, US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said, “The United States is deeply concerned that Pakistani nationals have been sentenced by military tribunals for their involvement in the protests on 9 May 2023. Judicial independence, transparency, and due process are guaranteed in these military courts”. According to a report by PTI.
He urged the Pakistani authorities to uphold the right to a fair trial and due process guaranteed under the Constitution of Pakistan.
However, Richard Grenell, a close aide of President-elect Donald Trump and former US ambassador to Germany, criticized the US response as inadequate and delayed. “You’re late. And it is very small and very weak. Speak normally. Free Imran Khan,” Grenell said.
Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna echoed Grenell’s sentiments, calling for the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and fresh elections in Pakistan.
“I agree with Richard Grenell. It’s time to free Imran Khan and give the people of Pakistan new democratic elections,” Khanna said.
Former US Ambassador to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad also called for stronger international pressure on Pakistan’s military. “Time has come to put more pressure on Pakistan, especially the military, to facilitate a balanced political deal with the PTI and the release of Imran Khan,” Khalilzad noted.
The military court’s sentencing of civilians has drawn widespread criticism, calling on Pakistan to ensure judicial fairness and respect democratic principles.
(With information from PTI)
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