Karsaz tragedy a reminder of central battle against militancy,terrorism

ISLAMABAD, Oct 18 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari while paying tributes to the martyrs o Karsaz tragedy, said the tragedy served to remind that central battle in Pakistan was against militancy and terrorism which must be won. On the eve of second anniversary of Karsaz tragedy on October 18, President Zardari also the PPP Co Chairman said, “Our thoughts go to the martyrs who laid down their lives and many hundreds more who were maimed and wounded while protecting the life of their leader Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.”

On October 18, 2007, 179 Jan nisaran i Benazir and fans of democracy were martyred in Karachi when the terrorists struck the convoy welcoming her to the country from almost a decade in exile.
President Zardari said, “They died for democracy and for valiantly fighting the forces of militancy and extremism. They sacrificed their lives so our people could live in freedom, dignity and hope.”
He said, “We salute their courage, devotion and loyalty. They are the strength of the nation indeed they are our national heroes and heroines.”
“By laying down their lives they have inspired and motivated us to strive for worthy goals no matter what the odds,” he said.
“On this day Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto returned to the country to in her own words, ‘bring change to my country by empowering its people and building political institutions,’ he said.
He said, “My message on this day is that let us all strive to bring change and empower the poor people.”
He said the attack on Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was not an attack on an individual. It was an attack on forces of moderation fighting militancy and extremism, he said.
The attack echoed what she had said that the fundamental battle in Pakistan was against fanaticism and extremism and that this battle can be won only under democracy.
“Let us therefore, while honouring the martyrs, rededicate ourselves to fighting militancy and extremism by strengthening democratic institutions,” he said.
He said, “On this day, I wish to reiterate that we will root out militancy and extremism from our land no matter what the price. Let there be no doubt or mistake about it.”
Zardari said, “The government has taken measures to rehabilitate with respect the families of those who laid down their lives to protect Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. This is our duty and we will do more to honour the families of heroes of democracy.”