I, Dr. Asif Mahmood, in coordination with First Pakistani Global, the Democracy and Human Rights Alliance, the Community Alliance for Peace and Justice, the Democratic Friends of Pakistan, the Save Pakistan Coalition, and the Pakistani American Physicians Association, stand in unity with the tens of millions of human rights advocates and democracy defenders worldwide, in launching this petition to demand justice and accountability for the harrowing events that unfolded in Islamabad, Pakistan, on November 26, 2024.

For nearly two years, Pakistan has endured a relentless assault on democracy and human rights. Thousands of political activists have been unjustly detained, with women advocates disproportionately targeted. The country's most popular political leader and former Prime Minister remains imprisoned on blatantly fabricated charges, despite securing bail in over 100 cases.

On November 24th more than 100,000 peaceful protesters marched to Islamabad to demand justice and freedom. In response, Pakistani authorities launched a chilling campaign of repression. Communications and transportation were severed nationwide to isolate the protesters. Undeterred, these brave individuals convened for a peaceful sit-in, even as authorities threatened live on television to use firing squads to disperse them.

Under the cover of darkness in the early hours of November 26, authorities blacked out the protest site, set containers ablaze to block escape routes, and unleashed live fire on the crowd. The scene bore a haunting resemblance to a war zone, underscoring the gravity of the violations committed.

Our Demands

We call on all who value democracy, human rights, and justice to join us in urging decisive action. Specifically, we appeal to:

• Human Rights and Democracy Department of the U.S. State Department,
• The United Nations Human Rights Commission,
• Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission in the U.S. Congress

1. Launch an Independent International Inquiry
   Initiate an immediate and transparent investigation led by an international commission with full access to evidence and witnesses.
2. Preserve Evidence and Protect Families
   Implement urgent measures to prevent Pakistani authorities from destroying evidence or harassing victims' families and survivors.
3. Release All Political Prisoners
   Demand the unconditional release of all political detainees in Pakistan, including women activists and opposition leaders.
4. Establish a 90-Day Inquiry Deadline
   Ensure the investigation is concluded within 90 days to deliver timely justice and accountability.
5. Impose Targeted Sanctions
   Enforce appropriate sanctions on individuals and entities responsible for these egregious human rights violations.

Why This Matters

This is not just about Pakistan; it is about the global fight for democracy, human rights, and justice. The world must not stand by as peaceful protesters are silenced, families shattered, and democratic principles trampled. The actions we take today will define our collective commitment to these values.

Let us unite and demand accountability. Stand with courageous individuals who risked their lives for freedom. Stand for democracy, for justice, and for human rights.

Sign this petition now and let your voice be a beacon of hope for those who continue to fight for a better future.

Thank you for your unwavering support.

Dr. Asif Mahmood
Human Rights Advocate