US Congress Panel to Examine Political Repression in Pakistan

The Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission (TLHRC) of the United States Congress will convene a hearing on July 15, 2025, to investigate claims of political repression in Pakistan. The session will spotlight the treatment of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Imran Khan and broader concerns about democratic erosion. It will scrutinize government actions against opposition figures, journalists, and media freedoms, raising questions about Pakistan’s democratic stability.

Scheduled for 3:30 PM at the Rayburn House Office Building, the hearing titled “Pakistan: Ongoing Political Repression” will feature testimony from PTI advisor Sayed Zulfikar Bukhari, who stated on X, “I will highlight the arbitrary detention of Imran Khan, his wife, and other political prisoners.” Co-chaired by Republican Congressman Christopher Smith and Democratic Congressman James McGovern, the TLHRC aims to assess Pakistan’s human rights landscape. Witnesses include Amnesty International’s Ben Linden and Perseus Strategies’ Jared Genser, who said, “I am honored to testify on Pakistan’s human rights crisis.” They will address media crackdowns and electoral irregularities. The US State Department’s 2023 report cites enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and restrictions during the February 2024 elections, fueling international concern.

The hearing follows increased scrutiny since Khan’s 2022 ouster and 2023 imprisonment on corruption charges, which PTI claims are politically motivated. Freedom Network’s 2025 report, “Free Speech and Public Interest Journalism Under Siege,” details how January 2025 amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) have allowed authorities to target journalists and dissidents, eroding free expression. Congressman Joe Wilson recently urged Khan’s release, stating, “Democracy cannot function if political opponents are unjustly detained,” reflecting growing US focus on Pakistan’s governance.

Pakistan’s military wields significant influence in politics, with Freedom House noting its “enormous power.” The hearing could amplify calls for accountability. While Bukhari’s testimony highlights PTI’s struggles, Pakistan’s government has dismissed such critiques as interference. This congressional probe underscores the delicate balance in US-Pakistan relations and may shape future diplomatic and aid policies.