Biden urged not to recognise new Pakistan govt

WASHINGTON: Describing the general elections rigged, US lawmakers have urged President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken to refrain from accepting a new Pakistani government until an audit of results.

The lawmakers, belonging to Biden’s Democrats, in a joint letter, voiced concerns about pre- and post-poll rigging in recent parliamentary elections held in Pakistan. The lawmakers have called for a fair and credible investigation before recognising a new Pakistani government. They were of the view that elections were rigged.

The 33 lawmakers are pivotal progressive Democrats essential for securing Joe Biden’s second term. In the recent Michigan primary, Biden faced a formidable uncommitted campaign led by activists dissatisfied with his Gaza war stance, causing considerable concern for the his camp.

Rashida Tlaib, Ilhan Omar and Andre Carson are among those Muslim members who signed the letter. They have influence in Michigan.