Some steps, including the curbs on freedom of expression and association taken by authorities in Pakistan ahead of the general elections, were at odds with their stated goal of free, fair and transparent polls, the Trump administration has said as it voiced its concern over the July 25 poll process.
Cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan led his Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) party to victory in the parliamentary elections this week, amid a growing consensus among South Asia experts and Pakistan-observers that it was greatly influenced and meddled by the strong Pakistani Army.
The development of strong democratic and civilian institutions of governance and a vibrant