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Thursday 13 January 2011

Pakistani Christians commemorate the life of Governor Salmaan Taseer


The British Pakistani Christian Association has arranged to hand over a wreath of flowers to the Pakistani High Commissioner Wajid Shamsul Hasan, at 17:00 on Friday 14th January.

Our wreath will be a representation of the love our community has for the nation of Pakistan and for the late Governor of Punjab Salmaan Taseer.

In sounding out a voice for women and minorities two of the more persecuted groups in Pakistan Governor Taseer placed himself on the front-line of the Pakistan Freedom movement.

The loss of his life may seem as a triumph to extremists, however, we believe that Salmaan Taseer has become a strong emblem of the campaign towards a fairer Pakistan. As such we strongly believe that despite any initial dent in the impetus of the change in Pakistan, his sacrifice will create an even bigger surge for equality, justice and peace.

Governor Salmaan Taseer is a martyr for justice and Peace and we hope that the international Pakistani body, irrespective of faith joins us at the peaceful demonstration of our solidarity as brothers.
Words on the wreath will say:

“In memory of a great man, Salman Taseer, Governor of Punjab, who bravely gave his life defending the rights of Pakistan citizens. He will be remembered for all his good deeds and bravery when he spoke out against the continued miscarriage of justice resulting from the misuse of Blasphemy Laws in Pakistan.”
A second wreath will say:

"Pakistan has lost one of it's most concientious and progresive statesman, the world has lost a great humanitarian. In speaking for the voiceless minorities of Pakistan Governor Salman Taseer has shown a way forward for people of Pakistan. The courage and sacrifice shown by Governor Taseer is an example not just to his party, but also to the country- that change is costly but necessary. Some may choose to listen others may not, however, his lasting testament is one that lives on. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Governor Taseer. Christians everywhere are praying for succour for them and a restoration of peace in Pakistan.


"Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy"
Matthew 5 v 7

We are also to be joined by Upkar Rai of the British Sikh Council - they will be delivering their own wreath in a spirit of solidarity. Theire wreath will say:

"Pakistan and the world has lost a great Samaritan of humanity. His fight for equality of all minorities and the hypocrisy and abuse of Blasphemy law are unprecedented. He was a great supporter of the Sikh community. He will be missed. Our heartfelt commiserations are with the family and wish them well for the future and hope they are able to draw strength from the fact that Salman sacrificed his life for the greater good of all mankind.

"From the One Light, the entire universe welled up. So who is good, and who is bad?"
Bhagat Kabeer Ji, Sri Guru Granth Sahib ji.

If you can make it, why not join us for a short low key candlelight vigil outside the Embassy as we hand over the wreath....

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