UK expresses serious concerns about fairness of Pakistan’s elections

LONDON: Foreign Secretary of United Kingdom David Cameron on Friday expressed serious concerns on the “fairness and integrity” of the general election held on February 8.

In a press release by the UK government: “The UK and Pakistan enjoy a close and long-standing relationship, underpinned by strong links between our people. Following yesterday’s elections, we commend all those who voted.”

It further said: “We recognise, however, serious concerns raised about the fairness and lack of inclusivity of the elections. We regret that not all parties were formally permitted to contest the elections and that legal processes were used to prevent some political leaders from participation, and to prevent the use of recognisable party symbols. We also note the restrictions imposed on internet access on polling day, significant delays to the reporting of results and claims of irregularities in the counting process.”

The government of the UK urged Pakistani authorities to “uphold fundamental human rights including free access to information, and the rule of law. This includes the right to a fair trial, through adherence to due process and an independent and transparent judicial system, free from interference.

The press released ended with the UK government saying that “the election of a civilian government with the mandate to deliver crucial reforms is essential for Pakistan to flourish. The new government must be accountable to the people it serves, and work to represent the interests of all Pakistan’s citizens and communities with equity and justice. We look forward to working with Pakistan’s next government to achieve this, and across the range of our shared interests. “

David Cameron echoes similar concerns on X

The former prime minister of UK David Cameron voiced similar views on his personal account on social media platform X, where he wrote: “we recognise serious concerns over the fairness and lack of inclusivity of Pakistan’s elections. Authorities must uphold fundamental human rights including free access to information and the rule of law. I applaud all who voted.”