Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Lahore (Agenzia Fides) – New threats to Christian leaders who go against the blasphemy law: under threat now is Joseph Francis, lawyer and director of the Centre for Legal Aid Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS) in Pakistan, which provides free legal assistance to many Christians accused and arrested unjustly for blasphemy.
As reported to Fides, the lawyer has been receiving death threats and intimidation in the last few days because of his work in defending religious minorities. The threats came after he appeared on television criticising the abuses of the blasphemy law. “They are threats that, after the recent assassinations of Salman Taseer and Shahbaz Bhatti, need to be taken seriously,” says Francis in a message sent to Fides. “The extremists want to eliminate anyone who opposes the blasphemy law: all those who defend human rights in Pakistan are in danger.” Francis continues: “Even if I do receive threats on my life, I am a soldier of Christ and I want to do all I can to protect those who are persecuted and oppressed by unjust laws, even if I may eventually have to pay with my life. I will continue my battle for the abolition of the blasphemy law and other discriminatory laws.” (PA) (Agenzia Fides 26/3/2011)
