Pakistan Defends Election Integrity Amid US Scrutiny

Pakistan accuses the US of interference following a resolution on election irregularities. Officials denounce US involvement in internal affairs and call for transparent dialogue.

Islamabad, Pakistan — Pakistan has accused the United States of trying to “interfere” in its domestic affairs shortly after the US House of Representatives approved a resolution raising concerns about the credibility of Pakistan’s general election held in February.

The resolution urged a “full and independent” inquiry into alleged irregularities in Pakistan’s election, which Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party claimed was manipulated to prevent its victory.

Pakistan's response highlighted the challenges in its relationship with the US, a historic ally, but is unlikely to disrupt recent efforts to stabilize ties, according to analysts.

Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, a representative for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that Pakistan believes in “constructive dialogue” and engagement, criticizing such resolutions as lacking objectivity.

Defense Minister Khwaja Asif also condemned the resolution, emphasizing the need for the US to ensure transparency in its own upcoming elections.

“The US has no right to intervene in Pakistan’s internal affairs,” he stated during a television interview.

In a previous post on X, Asif questioned the US's history of involvement in ousting foreign governments and its support for Israel amid conflicts in various regions.

What does the resolution say?

Pakistani Defence Minister Khwaja Asif criticized the US Congress resolution, calling it an interference in Pakistan's internal matters. [File: Abid Hussain/Al Jazeera]

House Resolution 901 was initially introduced by Republican Congressman Rich McCormick and Democrat Congressman Daniel Kildee, urging Pakistan to uphold democratic institutions and condemning violations of people’s rights.

The resolution garnered significant support in Congress, with 368 members in favor and seven opposed to it.

PTI, despite winning the most seats in the February elections, welcomed the resolution, viewing it as a step in the right direction.

Pakistan held its elections after a delay, with PTI claiming its mandate was stolen despite emerging as the leading party.

‘A signal’

According to former Pakistani ambassador Maleeha Lodhi, the resolution signals congressional sentiments without exerting pressure on US-Pakistan relations.

Khan alleged a US-led conspiracy to remove him from power, accusing senior officials of plotting against him, claims that were denied by both US and Pakistani authorities.

Despite tensions, the US expressed support for Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts, potentially signaling improved relations.

Foreign policy experts comment that the resolution is unlikely to significantly impact Pakistan, attributing it to domestic US political dynamics.