Imran Khan Seeks Global Support for Democracy and Stability in Pakistan

Pakistan’s former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, has urged international organizations and foreign governments to intervene in ensuring democratic integrity in Pakistan. Following the 2024 general elections, Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has alleged widespread electoral fraud, prompting concerns over regional stability and governance.

Imran Khan’s Call for International Intervention

On February 28, 2024, Imran Khan sent a letter to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), requesting an audit of the election results before the organization proceeds with bailout discussions for the incoming government. His argument is that political legitimacy must be established before any financial commitments are made, ensuring a stable and democratically elected leadership in Pakistan.

His appeal has sparked controversy, with opponents accusing him of inviting foreign interference in Pakistan’s domestic affairs.

Political Backlash and Criticism

Khan’s call for global support has been met with strong opposition from political leaders, including:

• Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar, who condemned the move as “irresponsible and unjustified.”
• Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who likened Khan’s appeal to an act of hostility against the state.
• Leaders of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), who criticized the request for foreign intervention.

PTI’s Defense and Justification

In response to the criticism, PTI clarified that they are not against IMF financial assistance but insist that:

• IMF’s 1997 policy guidance states that governments lacking legitimate representation do not have the moral authority to govern or enforce taxation.
• A fair and transparent audit of election results is necessary to restore public confidence in the democratic process.

International Response

Khan’s concerns have drawn attention from the United States, with 31 U.S. Congress members writing to President Joe Biden. They urged Washington to withhold recognition of the new coalition government until an independent audit of election results is conducted.

Imran Khan’s Statements from Jail

Despite being imprisoned, Imran Khan continues to challenge the election results, claiming that:

• PTI won 170 seats, securing a two-thirds majority.
• The alleged electoral fraud is “the mother of all rigging.”
• PML-N and other parties are prioritizing military influence over democratic values.

His sister, Aleema Khan, has also echoed these statements, emphasizing the need for justice in the electoral process.

Conclusion

The political turmoil in Pakistan continues as Imran Khan and PTI push for electoral transparency, while the government and opposition parties dismiss his claims. With international actors, including the IMF and U.S. Congress, now paying attention, the future of democracy in Pakistan remains uncertain.