about Benazir Bhutto

The Islamic world has lost a strong voice for democracy

We mourn the death of Benazir Bhutto, twice elected Prime Minister of Pakistan, The assassination of the former Prime Minister Bhutto is not only a loss for the forces of democracy, it is a destabilizing blow for Pakistan and the region, already reeling from separatist conflicts and Al Qaeda-related tensions.

Benazir Bhutto's return to Pakistan could have strengthened the government, following moves for power-sharing with President Parvez Musharraf. Her death at the hands of an assassin has not only removed that option, it imposes more burdens on a government and a nation caught between the growing influence of extremists and radicals and the pressures coming from the United States and its allies.

Our sister Benazir was a powerful image for the Muslim world, a woman who was elected Prime MInister of an Islamic country where the military and the religious leaders were influential. Her death has erased that powerful image.

We offer our prayers and condolences to our sister Benazir's family and her nation in this tragic time. We pray for peace in Pakistan.

Amina Rasul
Philippine Council for Islam and Democracy