UK foreign secretary calls Imran Khan's arrest internal matter

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy has labelled the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan as an internal issue for Pakistan, adding that there are no indications of a military tribunal trial for the leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), reported Express News on Saturday.

In a response to a letter from British Member of Parliament Kim Johnson, Lammy expressed concern over the political and human rights situation in Pakistan. Johnson had raised concerns about Khan's arrest and the prevailing political climate in Pakistan.

In his reply, Lammy stressed that judicial decisions in Pakistan are the country’s internal matters but underscored the importance of adhering to international agreements, particularly regarding human rights. He called on Pakistani authorities to ensure respect for basic human rights, fair trials, and humane treatment of detainees.

Lammy also voiced concerns over the potential use of military courts, stating that trials in military tribunals could lack transparency and independent oversight, which would not meet international standards.

He highlighted that an independent judiciary, which serves as a check and balance on state institutions, is vital for the health of democracy. There were no signs, Lammy added, of Khan’s case being moved to a military court.

The UK foreign secretary also announced that Minister for the Falkland Islands Andrew Faulkner would soon visit Pakistan to continue discussions on human rights. Following the visit, Faulkner will brief UK parliamentarians on the situation.

Lammy concluded by reaffirming Britain’s commitment to maintaining its relationship with Pakistan and continuing to collaborate on the protection of human rights.

British authorities, he said, would continue to press for respect for democratic principles and justice for the people of Pakistan, particularly regarding issues like Khan’s detention and restrictions on freedom of expression.