WASHINGTON D.C.: US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller on Monday expressed concern at a press conference over reported irregularities and fraud in Pakistan’s recent elections.
Addressing a panel of journalists, Miller congratulated the people of Pakistan for participating in the elections and protecting the country’s democratic institutions.
“We have raised these concerns privately and publicly,” Miller said, highlighting irregularities observed during the election process. The United States, along with the European Union (EU), the United Kingdom (UK) and other countries, called on the Pakistani government to respect the will of the voters.
“We emphasize that we want the rule of law, respect for the constitution, a free press and the will of civil society to be respected,” Miller added.
The US also condemned instances of political and electoral violence, as well as restrictions on internet and mobile services that adversely affected the electoral process.
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Regarding the allegations of interference and fraud, Miller stressed the importance of a thorough investigation by the Pakistani legal system. “We will continue to monitor this in the coming days,” he said.
Responding to questions about cooperation with Pakistan’s new government amid allegations of fraud and irregularities, Miller stressed the need for a comprehensive investigation. “Whoever the people of Pakistan choose to represent them, we are ready to work with the government once it is formed,” he said.
Addressing concerns about freedom of assembly in Pakistan, Miller said, “We want freedom of assembly to be respected anywhere in the world. While Miller is open to considering specific proposals for an independent investigation, he stressed the importance of allowing Pakistan’s legal system to deal with the matter first.
“In terms of next steps, they should be discussed once the legal system has had an opportunity to establish itself in Pakistan,” Miller concluded.
