Title: Political Engineering and Media Restrictions Put Pakistan’s Democracy and Rule of Law at Risk, HRCP Raises Concerns
The upcoming general elections in Pakistan have raised serious concerns about democracy, electoral politics, and the rule of law, according to a report by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP). The report highlights the detrimental effects of political engineering on these fundamental pillars of democracy.
The HRCP expresses its determination to hold the state accountable for the restrictions imposed on the media as the elections draw nearer. The commission condemns the curbs on freedom of expression, noting the arbitrary removal of journalists for expressing dissenting opinions. Moreover, many journalists have been prevented from reporting on recent events in areas such as Parachinar and Chaman.
In addition to addressing media restrictions, the HRCP demands accountability from the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances regarding its poor track record. The commission urges the courts to identify the perpetrators in cases where victims’ families have filed petitions, ensuring they are held accountable and providing reparations for victims and their families.
The HRCP also draws attention to the alarming law and order situation in the Kachha areas of Sindh and Punjab, emphasizing the urgent need for intervention by the provincial governments. The commission requests that residents’ credible suspicion of influential individuals benefiting from the deteriorating security situation be properly investigated.
Furthermore, the HRCP advocates for the prompt mainstreaming of newly merged districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, along with local empowerment. The commission expresses concern over the revival of the FATA Tribunal and calls on the government to monitor the situation in Parachinar, ensuring the security of its residents and preventing further sectarian violence.
The rising number of suicides, particularly in Sindh, South Punjab, and Gilgit, is a cause for concern, as many cases are linked to increasing poverty. The HRCP urges the government to take measures to address this issue and offer support to those affected.
Moreover, the HRCP highlights the vulnerability of child domestic workers to abuse and sexual violence, emphasizing the need for their special protection. The recent ban on women working at NGOs in Kohistan is also condemned by the commission. Furthermore, the HRCP opposes the ongoing deportation of Afghan nationals with legitimate documents and calls for their protection.
The government’s responsibility to ensure fair wages and safe working conditions, particularly for fisherfolk, miners, and sanitation workers, is stressed by the HRCP.
The HRCP also expresses its concern over the continued allotment of collectively owned land in Gilgit-Baltistan to private individuals and the resulting environmental degradation, which adversely affects the health and livelihood of local residents.
In conclusion, the HRCP report sheds light on the challenges facing Pakistan’s democracy and rule of law as a result of political engineering and media restrictions ahead of the general elections. The commission demands accountability from the state, urges prompt action by provincial governments in addressing security concerns, emphasizes the need for protection of vulnerable groups, and calls for measures to tackle poverty-related issues. By highlighting these concerns, the HRCP hopes to safeguard the principles of democracy and the rule of law in Pakistan.
