The Commonwealth Secretariat has summoned Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to appear before the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group on March 7 in London to address concerns over the rule of law and democratic standards in Pakistan.
According to reports, the meeting will examine issues including recent constitutional amendments affecting the judiciary, the use of military courts for civilians, restrictions on media and political freedoms, and the continued imprisonment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar was initially expected to represent the government but has reportedly excused himself from attending. Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the UK, Dr. Muhammad Faisal, may attend instead.
CMAG has the authority to investigate, censure, and even recommend suspension of member states for serious violations of the Commonwealth Charter. Pakistan has previously faced suspension from the Commonwealth following the 1999 Pakistani coup d’état and again during the 2007 Pakistani state of emergency.
Concerns raised ahead of the meeting also include the treatment and health of Imran Khan, who remains in detention amid reports of deteriorating health and restrictions on access to family and medical care.