Statement by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Dermot Ahern, TD, on the assassination of Mrs Benazir Bhutto in Pakistan

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Dermot Ahern, TD, has expressed deep shock following the assassination today of Mrs Benazir Bhutto, leader of the Pakistan People's Party (PPP).

The Minister said:

“I am deeply shocked by the assassination of Benazir Bhutto, and extend my condolences to Mrs Bhutto's family and to all others injured or bereaved by this attack.  This appalling terrorist act has ended the life of one of Pakistan's most prominent political leaders - a former two-term Prime Minister of the country, and the leader of the Pakistan People's Party (PPP). The killing of Benazir Bhutto is not just a tragic act of violence against an individual, but an attack on democracy, as her party and the country have been preparing for parliamentary elections scheduled for 8 January 2008. In this tense and fragile political environment, it is vital that every effort is made to ensure calm and restraint.  I call upon the Pakistani authorities, and all those with particular influence upon them, to do their utmost to ensure that Pakistan continues on its path back to democracy. "

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Press
27 December 2007