Web Desk
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) released a statement on Wednesday emphasizing that the country’s multiple crises cannot be overcome unless all political stakeholders refrain from taking further actions that could jeopardize its fragile democracy.
HRCP Chairperson Hina Jilani, in the statement, expressed disappointment in the government’s failure to protect civilian supremacy and uphold the dignity of parliament. The HRCP closely monitored the ongoing political crisis and raised concerns about the erosion of civilian supremacy as a significant consequence.
Simultaneously, the statement acknowledged the opposition’s history of hostile politics and disregard for the rule of law, which contributed to the destructive events on 9-10 May. It emphasized that these events were not peaceful protests but involved acts of arson, rioting, looting, vandalism, and trespassing on state and private property.
The HRCP also noted that the judiciary’s unity and impartiality had been compromised, which has serious implications for the separation of powers. The statement regretted the judiciary’s failure to maintain its independence and impartiality, which exacerbated the rule-of-law crisis in the country.
Regarding allegations of violence and custodial torture against political workers and supporters, the HRCP stressed the importance of independent investigations into all such claims. It expressed concern over the trial of civilians under the Army Act and urged the government to hold those responsible for the destruction of public and private property accountable within the framework of civilian laws.
The HRCP criticized Article 2(1)(d) of the Act, which allows civilians to be tried in military courts, denying them their constitutional right to a fair trial. It called on any government committed to upholding civilian supremacy to consider repealing this article.
Furthermore, the HRCP objected to the arbitrary selection of cases for military court trials, as it violated the principle of equality before the law and equal protection. The organization stressed the need for all political parties to adhere to democratic, peaceful, and legitimate means to pursue their political agendas. It opposed the ban on any political party, deeming it reckless and disproportionate, as it could set a detrimental precedent and hinder the natural development of political parties according to the will of the electorate.
The HRCP voiced opposition to any delay in the general elections beyond October 2023, warning that such a step would derail the democratic process and exacerbate the current political instability. It emphasized the importance of conducting free, fair, and credible elections that allow the exercise of all fundamental freedoms to avoid ill-conceived and undemocratic political “experiments.”
Expressing deep concern, the HRCP highlighted the encroachment of non-political forces on the space for which Pakistani civil society has long fought. It stated that democracy cannot be built on shifting narratives and fluid loyalties, opposing both political engineering in the 2018 elections and attempts to reverse-engineer the democratic process.
