Pakistan Democracy Act

This bill, called the Pakistan Democracy Act, says the United States should support a democratic Pakistan with free and fair elections, civilian rule, independent courts, and basic rights for everyone.

It would require U.S. officials, within 180 days, to place human-rights sanctions on Pakistan’s Army chief, General Asim Munir, unless Pakistan ends military rule, restores civilian democracy and rule of law, and releases people who were wrongfully jailed for politics. It also directs the President to identify people who knowingly helped persecute and jail political opponents in Pakistan, including former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Those people would be barred from entering the United States, denied visas, and could have any current visas canceled right away. The State Department must brief Congress within 90 days on who is targeted and why. Waivers are allowed in the national interest or if circumstances change .

• Who is affected: Pakistani officials and others involved in wrongful persecution or in undermining democracy; specifically includes senior government, military, law enforcement, intelligence, and judicial leaders; and General Asim Munir under a separate sanctions requirement.
• What changes: U.S. sanctions and travel bans for those identified; current visas can be revoked immediately.
• When: Identifications and sanctions within 180 days; congressional briefing within 90 days; waivers possible if key conditions are met or for U.S. national interests .