Investigate Islamabad killings and election
Petitioners ask the House to call inquiries into the Nov 26, 2024 Islamabad killings and the Feb 2024 election, demand Imran Khan’s release, and condemn transnational repression. The government responds that Canada monitors the situation, supports free, fair elections, condemns political violence, pursues diplomacy and programming, opposes transnational repression, and respects Pakistan’s legal processes.
Why we would sign this petition
- It would press for independent investigations of alleged killings and a disputed election, increasing international pressure for accountability and transparency.
- Demanding release of political prisoners could protect human rights and support safety of Canadian‑Pakistani communities concerned about reprisals.
- A formal condemnation of transnational repression would signal Canadian support for democracy and help deter threats against diaspora members.
Why we wouldn’t sign this petition
- It could be seen as interference in Pakistan’s internal affairs, risking diplomatic strains that may reduce Canada's influence.
- Pressing for release of a named leader risks appearing partisan and may compromise Canada’s stance of not supporting specific individuals or parties.
- Canada's capacity to effect legal outcomes abroad is limited; diplomatic engagement and programming may be more practical than public demands.
The summary and both sets of reasons are AI-generated from the petition and given equal weight. Claims are the petitioners’ own; consult the official record for the full text.
Official petition
Petition to the House of Commons in Parliament assembled This petition is being presented in the context of the rapidly deteriorating political situation in Pakistan concerning democracy, human rights, and the safety of Canadian-Pakistanis who have been vocal in their support for these causes; Pakistan has witnessed significant political and social upheaval in recent months. Specifically, on November 26, 2024, thousands of unarmed protesters, protesting the fraudulent February 2024 elections and former Prime Minister Imran Khan's incarceration, were directly fired upon with live ammunition by the unelected military-backed regime. The Guardian has published a detailed report elucidating upon this; The detention of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, the silencing of opposition voices, and the escalation of human rights abuses are deeply alarming. These developments not only threaten democracy within Pakistan but also have repercussions for Pakistani diasporas worldwide, including here in Canada. We believe the support of the Canadian government is crucial in amplifying these concerns and in exploring how we can collectively advocate for democracy, justice, and the safety of Canadian citizens. We, the undersigned, citizens and residents of Canada, call upon the House of Commons in Parliament assembled to: 1. Call for an immediate inquiry into the tragic events of the November 26, 2024, Islamabad Massacre in which the military regime opened fire on unarmed protesters as well as an inquiry into the tainted February 2024 general elections; 2. Call for the immediate release of Imran Khan and other political prisoners in Pakistan; 3. Issue a statement in solidarity with the restoration of the people's mandate and democratic governance in Pakistan; and 4. Issue a strong condemnation of threats and acts of transnational repression targeting Canadian-Pakistanis.
Government response
Response by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Signed by Rob Oliphant The Government of Canada is aware of the latest political developments in Pakistan and continues to monitor the situation. Canada joins civil society, including the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan, in their concerns about the democratic process surrounding the February 2024 elections, including cellular and Internet service disruptions and attacks on media workers. Canada supports free, fair, and inclusive electoral processes and condemns all acts of political violence, which are attacks on democracy. Canada remains committed to supporting the people of Pakistan in their aspirations for a more stable, prosperous and democratic future. The promotion and protection of human rights, democratic values, media freedom, and respect for the rule of law are integral elements of Canada’s foreign policy and are key priorities for Canada’s engagement in Pakistan. Canada considers diplomacy, advocacy and programming activities to be among the most effective ways of promoting these priorities in Pakistan. Global Affairs Canada officials regularly raise these topics with senior Pakistani government officials, opposition parties, and local and religious leaders. Canada also supports civil society in Pakistan through its Canada Fund for Local Initiatives to fund locally implemented projects focused on advancing inclusive governance, human rights and the rule of law. Regarding the imprisonment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, Canada does not interfere in Pakistan’s domestic political affairs or legal processes, nor does Canada support any specific individuals or parties. Canadian officials engage with parties and individuals across the political spectrum in Pakistan. As part of regular interactions with government officials and opposition parties, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, Canadian officials request that all legal and democratic principles be upheld. On the matter of transnational repression, the Government of Canada has made it clear that such acts have no place in Canada and Global Affairs Canada will continue to play a role alongside other government departments to protect Canadian citizens and residents from all forms of transnational repression. The Government of Canada has conveyed specific messaging to the Government of Pakistan with regard to foreign interference and unacceptable practices. Canada will continue to be a firm and consistent voice, speaking up for the protection and promotion of human rights and the advancement of democratic values in Pakistan while ensuring the people of Canada, regardless of status, can continue to enjoy these rights without fear of retribution or harassment.