Two Luton MPs write to British Foreign Secretary David Lammy against shooting and violence during PTI protest in Islamabad

London Luton (Report by Shiraz Khan) On November 26, 2024, during PTI’s protest in Islamabad, British Foreign Secretary David Lammy was sent a letter by two Members of Parliament from Luton, Sarah Owen MP and Rachel Hopkins MP. The letter calls for an independent investigation into the use of gunfire, killings, and violence against protesters by the government. Additionally, the MPs urged the UK government to address the issue of media restrictions and the violation of fundamental democratic rights with the Pakistani government.

It is worth noting that similar letters have also been written by Members of Parliament from other cities to Foreign Secretary David Lammy. Here is letter transcription.

“The Rt. Hon David Lammy MP
Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Developmental Affairs
Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office
King Charles St.
London, SW1A 2AH

4 December 2024

Dear David,

Ongoing political unrest in Pakistan

We are writing to you on behalf of many of our constituents, as well as the wider Pakistani community in Luton, regarding the ongoing political unrest in Pakistan.

There have been some deeply concerning reports emerging from Pakistan regarding the treatment of protestors demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. These reports include information that at least six people have died, with hundreds more injured after violence broke out between protestors and security forces. There have also been hundreds of protestors arrested and reports that several journalists have been arrested or gone missing following the protests.

This situation has been further exacerbated by authorities reportedly blocking highways and locking down the capital city of Islamabad. Mobile phones and internet services have been suspended in some areas, with the government reportedly installing firewalls to monitor anti-state content on social media.

Our constituents, many of whom have strong familial ties in Pakistan, are very worried about the ongoing tension in the country, which is only being exacerbated by restricted internet services and communication blackouts. The United Kingdom has a longstanding allyship with Pakistan, and we are asking that you make representations to the Pakistani government to ensure international law is being upheld, and the following points are guaranteed:

An independent investigation into the killings and violence against protestors

Accountability and transparency regarding the casualties and arrests made during the crackdown

Dialogue that ensures respect for democratic rights and constitutional protections in Pakistan

Guaranteed media freedom and the protection of journalists

We look forward to urgently receiving your response so that we can share this with our constituents.

Yours sincerely,

Rachel Hopkins MP
Member of Parliament for Luton South and South Bedfordshire

Sarah Owen MP
Member of Parliament for Luton North