Bangkok, Thailand (29 November 2024)–The Asian Forum for Human Rights and Development (FORUM-ASIA) is deeply concerned over the excessive force used against protesters demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan from prison.
“The suppression of dissent–as evidenced by the intimidations and arrests made against protesters –undermines democratic principles and threatens people’s fundamental rights and freedoms. The use of excessive force against protesters is never acceptable,” said Mary Aileen Diez-Bacalso, Executive Director of FORUM-ASIA.
What happened
On 24 November 2024, Khan’s supporters–led by his wife Bushra Bibi–began their exodus towards the capital Islamabad to demand the former Prime Minister’s release. Ahead of the march, thousands were already reportedly arrested.
By 25 November, thousands had reached Islamabad, determined to march towards “Democracy Square.” Authorities responded by banning public gatherings; deploying police, army, and paramilitary soldiers; implementing a nationwide security lockdown and internet blackouts; and barricading major roads with ship containers.
As the crowd broke into barricades–protecting an area housing the parliament and other key government offices–security forces dispersed protesters by firing tear gas. Live and rubber bullets were reportedly used, however, these are yet to be verified. As of 27 November, the police said they have arrested nearly 1,000 protesters.
Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, then announced the “temporary suspension” of the protests. The clash between protesters and security forces left six people dead, two of whom are protesters and four are paramilitary troops, according to the media. Meanwhile, at least 50 injuries were reported. Exact figures, however, are yet to be released.
Following the clashes, The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan called for a “purposeful political dialogue” among involved parties.
Khan has been imprisoned since August 2023 over a corruption case. In 2022, he was ousted through a no-confidence vote in parliament. This comes after the Supreme Court ruled that Khan acted “unconstitutionally.” Khan and his supporters claim that he was arrested over politically-motivated charges.
Reasons behind the protests
Apart from their calls for Khan’s freedom, protesters were also demanding the release of political prisoners.
In addition, protesters want to repeal a constitutional amendment regarding the selection of Supreme Court justices.
Lastly, Khan’s supporters are demanding for free and fair elections, labelling the February 2024 elections as a “stolen mandate.”
Excessive force is unacceptable
“Freedom of peaceful assembly and association makes for a crucial bedrock of democracy and is enshrined in international human rights standards, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights), to which Pakistan is a state party. Any use of force by authorities must adhere to the principles of legality, necessity, and proportionality,” Bacalso explained.
The deployment of excessive security measures, suspension of mobile and internet services, and banning of public gatherings raise serious concerns about Pakistan’s shrinking civic space.
FORUM-ASIA urges the Government of Pakistan to:
- Immediately cease all forms of excessive force against protesters and ensure that security forces act in compliance with international human rights laws and standards.
- Release individuals who were arbitrarily detained during the protests.
- Initiate an independent investigation into the reported incidents of violence and hold those responsible accountable.
The Government of Pakistan must ensure an enabling environment where all citizens can peacefully and freely express their views without fear of reprisals. FORUM-ASIA will continue to monitor and support efforts to protect people’s freedom of peaceful assembly in Pakistan.
For the PDF copy of the statement, click here.
This post was originally published on FORUM-ASIA.