Islamabad, 9 May 2023 (TDI): In the wake of Imran Khan’s arrest in Pakistan, the German ambassador to the country, Alfred Grannas, took to Twitter to express his concern about the images that were circulating online.
He emphasized the importance of upholding the highest standards of the rule of law in all judicial cases and avoiding any exaggeration or misinformation.
He urged all parties involved to remain calm and prioritize constructive dialogue to move Pakistan forward.
Alfred Grannas tweeted, “Concerned about pictures of Imran Khan arrest today. Crucial to ensure highest standards of rule of law in judicial cases and avoid over-exaggeration. To all: Stay Calm on all sides for Pakistan and prioritize dialogue to work towards progress together!”
Shortly after his tweet, Grannas felt the need to delete it and issue a clarification. He stressed that his words were carefully chosen to avoid taking sides or condoning any actions that could further escalate tensions.
His tweet reads, “Previous tweet has been deleted to avoid any misinterpretation that we take a side, given the overall escalation in rhetorics. We chose our words carefully and do not condone anyone exploiting that.”
Also Read: International condemnation of attack on former Prime Minister Imran Khan
Recently, on 30 April, Imran Khan had a meeting with the German Ambassador; Imran Khan and Alfred Grannas discussed matters of bilateral significance and common interest.
Khan expressed his apprehensions regarding the persistent human rights violations transpiring in Pakistan, underscoring his party’s unflinching dedication to advancing democracy and ensuring the supremacy of the law.
During the discourse, the group delved into the adverse consequences of straying away from the Constitution and the detrimental effects of unconstitutional acts by the government on the democratic values of the country.
In particular, Grannas drew attention to the repercussions of violating human rights on Pakistan’s GSP+ status. The country received this recognition for upholding international agreements concerning human and labor rights, and any transgressions in this area could endanger this status.
During the meeting, the ex-Prime Minister emphasized that the bedrock of democracy lay in safeguarding fundamental rights and establishing a government that reflected public opinion.
He reiterated that the people of Pakistan were the ultimate source of power in national decision-making, as enshrined in the constitution.
The former PM criticized the current government for suppressing the right to vote and permitting interim governments to govern in Punjab and KP despite the expiry of the 90-day deadline after the dissolution of both assemblies.
He noted that this was exacerbating the political crisis in the country and causing an unfathomable impact on the economy.
Drawing Grannas’ attention to the deteriorating situation in Pakistan, he highlighted the rampant human rights violations and assaults on democracy and welcomed any international support to combat such abuses.
The ex-PM also pointed out that sedition charges were being levied against peaceful protestors, election campaigners, and advocates of free speech.
The meeting concluded with a shared understanding of the urgent need for promoting democracy, upholding human rights, and international cooperation to address the persistent challenges facing Pakistan.
