LONDON: In response to concerns raised by British MPs regarding the imprisonment of former prime minister Imran Khan, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy issued a detailed statement to Labour MP Kim Johnson, assuring that there is “no indication” Mr. Khan will be tried in military courts.
The letter, dated November 11, was made public by PTI’s Syed Zulfi Bukhari on Saturday. Bukhari praised the development, stating that Lammy’s response reflects the UK government’s stance that “any valid democracy cannot have military courts.”
In the letter, Lammy emphasized that while Pakistan’s judicial processes are a domestic matter, the UK has been clear that Pakistani authorities must act in line with international obligations and respect fundamental freedoms, including the right to a fair trial, due process, and humane detention. He stressed that these principles apply to Imran Khan as they do to all Pakistani citizens.
Lammy also expressed concern over restrictions on freedoms in Pakistan, highlighting the importance of democratic principles and the rule of law. He noted that the UK continues to engage with the Pakistani government at senior levels on these critical matters.
This development marks a significant victory for the PTI, which has been working to draw international attention to Khan’s incarceration through media coverage and discussions with British parliamentarians. Recently, a group of 20 MPs from various parties urged Lammy to advocate for Khan’s release, describing his detention as “politically motivated” and expressing fears of a potential military trial.
Addressing these concerns, Lammy stated that he had raised issues about the potential use of military courts to try civilians, including Khan. He noted that such courts often lack transparency and independent scrutiny, making it difficult to ensure compliance with international standards. Lammy assured that there are no recent indications from Pakistani authorities that they intend to try Khan in a military court, but his officials continue to monitor the situation closely.
Beyond judicial concerns, Lammy highlighted broader issues of civil liberties and democratic values in Pakistan. He reiterated the importance of freedom of expression and assembly, emphasizing that these are cornerstones of democracy. The letter also referenced ongoing discussions between UK and Pakistani officials, with Minister Falconer, responsible for Pakistan, emphasizing political rights and civil liberties in conversations with Pakistan’s Human Rights Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar.
Minister Falconer is scheduled to visit Pakistan later this year to meet key stakeholders and discuss these pressing issues. Lammy also acknowledged recent constitutional amendments passed by Pakistan’s parliament, underlining the importance of an independent judiciary to maintain democratic balance.
‘Letter Will Annoy Authorities’
Speaking to Dawn, both serving and retired diplomats suggested that the UK government’s response would be closely watched in Pakistan, as questions about judicial independence, civil liberties, and political fairness come under scrutiny.
Former ambassador Touqueer Hussain noted that the letter reveals the internal thinking of the UK on the ongoing situation in Pakistan, distinguishing it from a policy statement that might have actionable consequences. A retired diplomat, speaking anonymously, said the letter would likely annoy Pakistani authorities due to its substantive content, which addresses every aspect of the situation and reflects the British government’s thinking.
The diplomat also mentioned that while the PTI has successfully lobbied the international community regarding Khan’s issue, other parties, such as the MQM and PPP, have similarly sought international attention in the past.
A serving diplomat, also requesting anonymity, emphasized that the UK upholds fundamental freedoms and their sanctity in the constitution, calling for their implementation on numerous occasions. However, he cautioned that foreign authorities must respect Pakistan’s sovereignty in bilateral discussions and avoid involvement in domestic matters.
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