US' Nuland discusses upcoming Pakistani elections with country's FM

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
30 Aug 2023 10:27
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US Deputy Secretary of State Nuland and Pakistani Foreign Minister Jilani discussed the importance of timely elections over phone.

The US Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Victoria Nuland speaks to the media Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023 (AP)

In a recent telephone conversation, Acting US Deputy Secretary of State Victoria Nuland and Pakistani Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani discussed the importance of Pakistan conducting its forthcoming elections promptly and with transparency, Sputnik reported, citing a press release by State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.

The oversight body, established after the dissolution of the parliament, has decided to postpone the scheduled elections by four months in violation of the constitution which mandates that elections should be held within 90 days of parliament dissolution.

"Acting Deputy Secretary Nuland and Foreign Minister Jilani discussed the importance of timely, free, and fair elections in a manner consistent with Pakistan’s laws and constitution," State Department spokesperson Mathew Miller said in a press release.

The current election-related uncertainty has emerged amidst a backdrop of political upheaval following the incarceration of former Prime Minister and opposition leader Imran Khan.

Earlier this week, a Pakistani court invalidated a sedition case against former Prime Minister Imran Khan, providing him some respite.

Imran Khan had recently faced imprisonment due to corruption charges. The sedition case, originating from a speech he gave, was filed in Quetta, Balochistan, alleging seditious content.

Khan appealed the case, arguing that the necessary consent from federal or provincial authorities was missing for the sedition charges. The Balochistan High Court supported his appeal, deeming the charges unlawful and directing their dismissal.