Church of Scotland condemns Pakistan murder
The Church of Scotland condemns the brutal murder of Shahbaz Bhatti, Pakistan's Federal Minister for Minorities, in Islamabad this week.
Mr Bhatti was killed because he spoke out for the need to reform Pakistan’s notorious blasphemy laws. He was the second senior politician to be killed this year following the killing of Salam Taseer in January, after he too criticized the blasphemy laws.
Very Rev Dr Andrew McLellan, Convener of the Church of Scotland’s World Mission Council, said the church is deeply concerned that the government was unable to protect a federal minister who received death threats. He also urges the Government of Pakistan to increase protection to the Christian community.
Dr McLellan said: "For more lasting security of all Pakistanis we believe the government of Pakistan must tackle the religious extremists who are perverting Islam by carrying out these deeds and make Pakistan a safe and secure place for all to live.
“We join with the bishops of the Church of Pakistan and repeat our call for the blasphemy law to repealed or least be reformed so that it cannot be misused and can properly protect the religious sentiments of all faith communities in Pakistan.
“We again call for the Government of Pakistan to reprieve and release Asia Bibi, still on death row following her conviction for blasphemy in 2010."