Elections 2018: US expresses reservations over constraints on media

US department spokesperson says poll campaign was smeared by restrictions put in the way of free speech

The United States has expressed reservations about constraints on media freedom ahead of the July 25 polls.

In a weekly press briefing, US Department of State spokesperson Heather Nauert stated that the election campaign in Pakistan was smeared by restrictions put in the way of free speech.

She added that the US raised flaws in the pre-voting electoral process, as endorsed by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) and highlighted that the conclusions of the European Union (EU) Election Observation Mission also questioned the transparency of the elections.

In regards to the Quetta attack on the election day, spokesperson Nauert "condemned the horrific acts of terrorist violence that marred this process".



"We offer our deepest condolences to the victims and their families, and wish a speedy recovery to those injured," she said.

During the briefing, the spokesperson maintained that development of strong democratic and civil institutions are essential to Pakistan's long-term growth.

Furthermore, deep reservations over candidates on terrorism list being allowed to contest the polls were also raised but the spokesperson commended voters for fully rejecting these candidates at the ballot box.

"The US will continue to encourage broadening of opportunities for political participation for all Pakistanis, and for the further strengthening of legitimate, democratic institutions."

Nauert underscored that the US will look for opportunities to work with the new government to advance goals of security, stability, and prosperity in South Asia.