ISLAMABAD- The Foreign Office said on Wednesday Pakistan is fully committed to foster an inclusive democratic process, uphold the rule of law and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms guaranteed in its law and constitution.
The statement comes in response to remarks made by the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights regarding the upcoming general elections in Pakistan.
“We deplore all acts of violence against political parties and candidates, and urge the authorities to uphold the fundamental freedoms necessary for an inclusive and meaningful democratic process,” spokesperson Liz Throssell said in her statement.
She said that “no less than 24” incidents happened where armed groups have targetted political parties, and called on the authorities to “ensure a fully free and fair vote and to recommit to the democratic process and an environment that promotes and protects the full range of economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights”.
FO Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said security plans have been finalized to hold the elections on Feb 8 (Thursday) as per the electoral laws of Pakistan.
She said our judicial system provides for fair trial and due process. Domestic legal remedies are available in case of any complaints in the electoral process.
Pakistanis are all set to use their right to vote in the general elections tomorrow as the election campaigns by the political parties culminated on Tuesday night.
