E-Paper
Pakistan election: UK shares concern of observer missions
The United Kingdom has a large diaspora of Pakistan origin. Imran Khan, expected to be sworn in as the next prime minister of Pakistan, has several family and other links to the UK, having spent years studying at Oxford, playing county cricket at Sussex
Britain on Friday said it shared concern expressed by international observer missions over reports of pressure on the media in Pakistan and the number of parties with links to proscribed groups who preach violence and intolerance during the Wednesday elections in the country.
Noting that Jinnah’s vision of a tolerant, pluralist Pakistan remained central to a stable and cohesive Pakistani society, foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt said the election marked an “unprecedented second successive transfer of power from one full-term civilian government to another”.
“I welcome the initial findings from international and domestic observers...Like the election observation missions, we are also concerned about reports of pressure on the media and the number of parties with links to proscribed groups who preach violence and intolerance”, Hunt said.
“It is now for Pakistan’s elected representatives to work together to ensure a successful transition. I hope all sides will resolve any disputed results peacefully and in accordance with Pakistan’s electoral laws”.
The United Kingdom has a large diaspora of Pakistan origin. Imran Khan, expected to be sworn in as the next prime minister of Pakistan, has several family and other links to the UK, having spent years studying at Oxford, playing county cricket at Sussex.
Hunt added: “The UK and Pakistan enjoy a longstanding partnership, underpinned by strong links between our people. We look forward to continuing our work with the new federal and provincial governments. The people of Pakistan can be certain of UK support to build the democratic, secure and prosperous future they deserve.”
