Islamabad: The Carter Center has expressed concern over recent violence in Islamabad, calling on Pakistani authorities to respect the rights of protestors, cease excessive force, and restore mobile and internet services. The statement also urged the government to release detained protestors and conduct a transparent investigation into reports of fatalities.
According to Relief Web, the Carter Center emphasized the need for Pakistan to adhere to international commitments, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The unrest stems from demands for the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, with protestors alleging election manipulation. The U.N. Working Group on Arbitrary Detention has deemed Khan’s detention a violation of international law and part of a broader repression campaign.
The Carter Center advocates for peaceful demonstrations and encourages dialogue to resolve the political crisis, urging both the government and protestors to seek a political settlement to support Pakistan’s democratic development.