WASHINGTON – Donald Lu, the Assistant Secretary of the US Department of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, has been directed to appear in person before a Congress panel, to provide testimony regarding fairness of Pakistan’s general elections held on February 8.
The hearing titled “Pakistan after the elections: Examining the Future of Democracy in Pakistan and the US-Pakistan Relationship” is due on March 20.
The development is quite important as former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had accused Donald Lu of his involvement in ousting his government in 2022.
The subcommittee on the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia will conduct the hearing.
State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller while addressing a press briefing on Thursday emphasized the routine nature of State Department officials testifying before Congress. “We consider it crucial to assist Congress in its policymaking and oversight roles,” Miller stated.
He stressed upon the importance of both informal and formal dialogues between the State Department and Congress including the testimonies provided by officials.
Addressing concerns about Lu’s alleged involvement in the cipher controversy and his security, the spokesperson dismissed the allegations as “false”.
“These claims have been debunked repeatedly. The State Department takes any threats against US officials seriously and condemns any attempts to jeopardize the safety and security of diplomats,” he added.
