“Targeted for violence…” Travel advisory for Americans ahead of Pakistan general elections

Feb 04, 2024

New Delhi, Feb 04 (ANI): The State Department of the United States has issued a travel advisory for its citizens in or traveling to Pakistan. The US has advised its citizens to be vigilant ahead of Pakistan general elections scheduled for Feb 08. In the advisory, the State Department has highlighted potential disruptions and safety concerns during political activities. It also mentioned that in some instances, political activities in Pakistan have been targeted for violence. “Public gatherings have the potential to block traffic, disrupt transportation, and otherwise create obstacles to free movement and safety. In some instances, political activities in Pakistan have been targeted for violence. U.S. citizens should remain vigilant and aware of the locations of political rallies occurring in areas they intend to visit. On February 8, election day, areas around polling stations may be crowded, and U.S. citizens not eligible to participate in Pakistan’s elections should avoid them. Disruptions to internet and cellular service could occur leading up to and throughout election day and immediately following,” US Embassy & Consulates in Pakistan, wrote in a statement. Notably, there were speculations of the possible delay in the elections in Pakistan with rising incidents of violence. Reuters reported that a national assembly candidate was shot dead on Jan 31 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Pakistan is currently facing twin insurgencies, one in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa by Islamist groups and one by ethno-nationalist Baloch groups.