Pakistan: US issues travel advisory for Americans ahead of Feb 8 general elections 

The US has issued a travel advisory for American citizens planning to visit Pakistan, urging them to exercise caution in light of the upcoming general elections scheduled for February 8. Additionally, the advisory warned of potential violence related to the polls. The US Embassy in Pakistan released the advisory on Friday, advising its citizens to remain vigilant and stay informed about the locations of political rallies taking place in areas they plan to visit. Specifically, on election day, February 8, the advisory cautioned that areas around polling stations may experience crowds. US citizens who are not eligible to participate in Pakistan’s elections were advised to avoid these areas for their safety. The mission noted that political parties in Pakistan were campaigning actively, such as taking out marches, rallies, and speeches, which are intrinsic to any democratic process. However, it further said that such public gatherings have the potential to block traffic, disrupt transportation and create obstacles to free movement and safety. The advisory also cautioned that in some instances, political activities in Pakistan have been targeted for violence. Scores of pre-poll attacks on political parties have been reported this week from the troubled provinces of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The US mission advised American citizens not eligible to participate in Pakistan’s elections to avoid visiting areas around polling stations on February 8 as they may be crowded. There could also be disruptions to internet and cellular service leading up to and throughout election day, it said. It also provided recommendations such as avoiding areas of large public gatherings, exercising caution if one unexpectedly finds themselves in the vicinity of a large gathering or demonstration and reviewing one’s personal security plans. The embassy urged US citizens to monitor local media, keep a low profile and also carry their identification documents and cooperate with police. With inputs from PTI.