In a statement issued here on Monday, the US embassy asked the government that the detainees should be released immediately. "We have made it clear that we want to see Pakistan succeed as moderate, modern, democratic country, led by the choice of the Pakistani people. We do not endorse particular candidates or parties," said the US embassy's statement.
In a separate statement, the EU Heads of Mission in Pakistan expressed their concern on the recent arrest and detention of members of the opposition parties. Police arrested dozens of political leaders and activists of opposition parties over the weekend to stop them demonstrate in front of the Supreme Court on Monday.
The planned demonstration was part of the opposition parties' protest against President Musharraf's bid to get himself re-elected for another term. The government says the crackdown was in fact a step to maintain law and order, especially in the wake of suicide attacks in different parts of the country.
Islamabad district administration says that the arrests are made to maintain public order.
The police manhandled some opposition leaders, say some reports. Makhdoom Javed Hashmi, the PML (N) parliamentary leader, received some minor injuries in a scuffle with police. Over 40 opposition leaders and workers were arrested on Sunday.
The opposition parties term these arrests as 'mean' tactics by a military ruler to prolong his dictatorial rule. The opposition leaders including Qazi Hussain Ahmad and Imran Khan have condemned the arrests saying that these arrests would not deter the opposition's resolve to oust 'illegal and unconstitutional" ruler (Musharraf).
PML-N parliamentary leader was forcefully shifted to Adiala Jail. The parliament lodges has been besieged by a heavy contingent of police and security agencies personnel on Sunday.
This is for the first time that the US has expressed concern over the arrests of opposition leaders and workers. The US is accused of supporting Musharraf at the cost of establishing actual democracy in the country. During the judicial crisis, which began with presidential reference against Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry, the US had been insisting that it was Pakistan's internal problem.
However, the Monday's statement of US embassy said, "We would like to see that a fair, free, transparent election process that respects the Constitution, gives Pakistan citizens choices, and respects their decisions, continues without any impediment."
The EU statement said that while understanding the importance of maintaining law and order during the electoral period, and urging restraint from all parties, they urge the Government of Pakistan to ensure that its response is proportionate and follows due legal process.
The EU Heads of Mission underlined the importance of a level-playing field for free and fair elections in Pakistan, that allows for the full participation of all political parties. The Mission called on the Government of Pakistan to take all necessary measures to ensure the forthcoming elections are free, fair and peaceful.