H.R. 2311: Pakistan Democracy Act

This bill, known as the Pakistan Democracy Act, aims to impose sanctions on specific individuals in Pakistan who are involved in the wrongful persecution and imprisonment of political opponents. The primary focus is on those engaged in undermining democracy and military rule within Pakistan. Below are the key components of the bill:

1. Short Title

This Act may be referred to as the Pakistan Democracy Act.

2. Statement of Policy

The bill outlines the United States' policy to support a democratic Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of free and fair elections, civilian governance, restored judicial independence, rule of law, human rights, and due process.

3. Sanctions on General Asim Munir

Within 180 days of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of State, in collaboration with the Secretary of the Treasury, is required to impose sanctions on General Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan. The sanctions will be executed under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act. However, these sanctions can be waived by the President if he certifies that military rule in Pakistan has ended, civilian democracy has been restored, and all wrongfully detained political prisoners have been released.

4. Authorization of Sanctions

The bill gives the President authority to identify individuals involved in the wrongful persecution of political detainees, particularly focusing on those who have played roles in government or the military. The bill specifies the following:

• Identification of Offenders: Key individuals involved in the wrongful treatment of political opponents must be identified within 180 days of enactment.
• Ineligibility for Visas: Those identified will be barred from entering the United States or receiving visas, and their existing visas may be revoked immediately.
• Reporting Requirements: The Secretary of State must provide a briefing to Congress regarding these individuals within 90 days of the law's enactment.
• Waivers: The President can grant waivers for sanctions if they determine that doing so serves national interests or if circumstances have changed.

5. Definitions

The bill includes definitions for key terms such as:

• Foreign Person: Any individual who is not a U.S. person.
• Immediate Family Members: Defined according to the relevant immigration laws.
• Knowingly: Refers to individuals having actual knowledge or reasonable awareness of their actions and their implications.

Relevant Companies

None found.