Statement on the Assassination of Benazir Bhutto

(Washington, DC)  —  Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-20) made the following statement today on the assassination of former Pakistani Prime Minister and opposition leader Benazir Bhutto;

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the assassination of former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Her election as the first woman leader of an Islamic state will always be an inspiration for women throughout the world. Bhutto’s continued bravery in the face of extremists underscored her deep commitment to democracy and in the belief that peace and dialogue can overcome violence and fanaticism.

“The hatred shown by the perpetrators of this cruel attack serves as a reminder of the brutality and intolerance which has no place in a modern and peaceful society. I call on President Pervez Musharraf to seek to unite the people of Pakistan, uphold individual rights and freedoms, and work towards peace and security.

“My heart goes out to the families of Prime Minister Bhutto and the dozens of other victims of this senseless attack. Today the world stands in solidarity with the people of Pakistan in their grief and hope for a more peaceful future.”