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The World Forum for Democratization in Asia condemns in the strongest terms the tragic assassination of Benazir Bhutto, leader of the Pakistan People's Party (DPP) and former Prime Minister of Pakistan. This is yet another disastrous event in a country that has recently been rocked with political turmoil and unrest, and it seems almost certain to cast the people of Pakistan into a period of even greater commotion.  

 

As we firmly repudiate this horrific act of violence, we sincerely hope there not to be any further political upheaval that will disturb Pakistan's democratic development. In particular, we strongly emphasize the need for dialogue and communication in order to maintain a sense of peace and hope throughout Pakistan during these challenging times. Therefore, we call on all the opposition parties to work together at this critical stage of Pakistan's democratic process, in order to find a joint response towards this and other recent acts of bloodshed, as well as to establishing a common ground regarding the coming election.

 

Thus, we welcome the decision by Nawaz Sharif, leader of the Pakistan Muslim League and former Prime Minister, to sit down with the representatives of the PPP in order to discuss the possibilities of holding future elections. Such joint cooperation is the key to the reestablishment of constitutional, civilian rule, which is ultimately necessary for the well being of Pakistan and its people.

 

Furthermore, we call on all relevant authorities to spare no effort identify, arrest, and prosecute all those responsible, as an integral part of the ongoing efforts to restore the rule of law.

 

Finally, we would like to express our deep sorrow for the loss of one of the most politically significant personalities in Pakistan. It is not only a grievous loss for the people of Pakistan, but indeed a grave setback in the struggle for democracy throughout the world.


28 December 2007