Stephen has written to the Foreign Secretary, David Cameron, about the recent election in Pakistan.
A number of constituents have been in contact with Stephen in recent weeks outlining their concerns about how the elections were conducted. They allege that the Pakistani authorities manipulated votes against Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek e Insaaf Party. Mr Khan has since been sentenced to 10 years in prison. His supporters claim that the charges against him are politically motivated.
The Commonwealth Observer Group visited Pakistan at the end of February at the invitation of the Election Commission of Pakistan. In its interim statement, the group noted several concerns including the restriction of internet and mobile phone access on election day. The report is due to be shared with the Pakistani government shortly.
Having sent his letter, Stephen said “I am aware that there are concerns surrounding the recent election in Pakistan. I am grateful to the Commonwealth Observer Group for visiting the country and will certainly read their report once it is published.”
“I will be sure to send the Foreign Secretary’s reply to my constituents who have been in touch about this once I have received it.”