Wilson and Panetta Introduce ‘Pakistan Democracy Act’
Washington, DC - Congressmen Joe Wilson (R-SC) and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) introduced the Pakistan Democracy Act. This legislation will promote democracy, human rights, and rule of law in Pakistan, especially following the flawed elections of February 2024 and ongoing concerns about military influence over civilian government. The legislation will provide support for democratic forces, authorize targeted sanctions, and require a report on progress towards democracy in Pakistan.
“I believe that U.S-Pakistan relations are strongest when Pakistan lives up to its democratic ideals. In a world which faces a conflict that we did not choose following Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine, between democracies based upon rule of law, and dictatorships based upon rule of gun, it is even more important to stand up for democracy and human rights around the world, including in Pakistan,” said Rep. Wilson. “I have major differences with Mr. Khan, not only in his past anti-American statements, but also his statements defending China, and refusing to take a strong stance against war criminal Putin's illegal invasion of Ukraine. However, Mr. Khan is clearly a political prisoner. Political differences should be dealt with through the ballot box and the Pakistani people should decide who rules Pakistan. Those who undermine democracy and persecute their political opponents should be held accountable through targeted sanctions especially visa bans.”
“The wrongful persecution and imprisonment of Imran Khan and others for simply holding different political beliefs is an affront to the principles of democracy and justice,” said Rep. Panetta. “The Pakistan Democracy Act makes clear that the United States will stand against authoritarian crackdowns and in support of free, fair, and open elections. A stable, democratic Pakistan is not only vital for its people, but for regional security and the strength of democratic values around the world.”
The full text of H.R. 2311 is available here.
# # #