Assassination of Benazir Bhutto is a colossal loss
to the country- Altaf Hussain

London, 27 December 2007

The Founder and Leader of Muttahida Quami Movement (MQM) Mr. Altaf Hussain expressed his sorrow upon the brutal murder of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and stated that it is the murder of democracy and liberalism.

He said that Mohtrama Bhutto would be known as a martyr for the cause of democracy and described her death as monumental tragedy that has to be condemned by all liberal minded people. He further stated that assassination of Benazir Bhutto is a colossal loss to the country and for those who want to see democracy and liberalism flourish, as it is the murder of liberalism. “ I am personally deeply in pain and sadden by this tragedy and covey my heart felt condolence to her husband Asif Ali Zardari, her children, Peoples Party leaders and workers.”

Mr. Altaf Hussain stated, “I wish to bring this on record that this is the third assassination of a Prime Minister belonging to the Sindh Province.” Mr. Liaquat Ali Khan was the first to be shot dead in Rawalpindi then Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was sent to the gallows there and today Mohtrama Benazir Bhutto has been martyred just like her father.

Mr Altaf Hussain said that this is an act to harm the country and create a sense of isolation among the people of Sindh province.  The gap that has been created by her death cannot be filled.  He appealed to President Musharraf and Prime Minister Mohammad Mian Somro to investigate and reveal the conspiracy behind this brutal killing and pass exemplary punishments to the culprits and conspirators. The solidarity of Pakistan is threatened if justice is not seen to be done.  He appealed to the people of Pakistan to unite against the disruptive forces who are bent upon to push Pakistan into stone age.  He also declared three days of mourning among MQM workers.