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The United States has expressed deep concern over the sentencing of 25 civilians by a military court in Pakistan, citing a lack of judicial independence, transparency, and due process.
Speaking on the matter, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said, “The United States is deeply concerned that Pakistani civilians have been sentenced by a military tribunal for their involvement in the protests on 9 May 2023. These military courts lack judicial independence, transparency, and due process guarantees”, according to a report by PTI.
He urged Pakistani authorities to uphold the right to a fair trial and due process, as guaranteed under Pakistan’s constitution.
However, Richard Grenell, a close aide of President-elect Donald Trump and a former US ambassador to Germany, criticised the US response, calling it insufficient and delayed. “You are late. And this is too little and too weak. Speak normally. Free Imran Khan,” Grenell stated.
Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna echoed Grenell’s sentiments, demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and calling for fresh elections in Pakistan.
“I agree with Richard Grenell. It’s time to free Imran Khan and allow the people of Pakistan to hold new democratic elections,” Khanna said, adding, “Free Imran Khan. This is bipartisan. We should not recognise the rigged election in Pakistan and the new government.”
Zalmay Khalilzad, the former US envoy on Afghanistan, also weighed in, urging stronger international pressure on Pakistan’s military. “It is time to put more pressure on Pakistan, especially the military, to facilitate a balanced political agreement with PTI and the release of Imran Khan,” Khalilzad remarked.
The sentencing of civilians by a military court has drawn widespread criticism, with calls for Pakistan to ensure judicial fairness and respect democratic principles.
(with inputs from PTI)
