Jibran Khan

Chief Executive John Lee Ka-Chiu announced a number of incentives, including cash bonuses and housing benefits. But for young people in the former British colony, nothing can counteract the lack of confidence in the future.

The woman, in prison on charges of blasphemy, is a target for Islamic radicals, who are clamoring for her death. The threats have increased since the hanging of Qadri, who murdered Bibi’s defender. Priest: "Let us pray and fast for her safety and that of all the other prisoners."

Masses and celebrations were held across the country for the Catholic minister, killed five years ago by Islamic fundamentalists. First testimonies collected for the opening of the diocesan process. First openings by Islamic leaders for review of the blasphemy laws. Speaking to AsiaNews his brother Paul’s personal memory.

The funeral will take place in the coming hours in Rawalpindi. Millions of Islamic fanatics have already gathered and the same number is expected in Lahore, Karachi and Peshawar at other simultaneous funeral ceremonies. Raised security measures around Asia Bibi, who had been defended by Governor Salman Taseer. The family of the woman hid in a secret location.

Mumtaz Qadri’s death sentence was carried out early this morning hours of today. The detainee met with family before execution. His funeral planned for this afternoon, with expected mass participation of Islamic radicals, who have already blocked the streets of Rawalpindi, Lahore and Karachi. Qadri is considered a "national hero" for killing the former Punjab governor, critic of the blasphemy laws.

President Mamnoon Hussain is expected to decide in the coming days whether to accept or reject a clemency plea by Mumtaz Qadri’s lawyers. Fearing retaliation, the president’s family has sought refuge at the president’s official residence. One of his three children recently escaped an assassination attempt. Police are ready to raise the alert level in the country and review Islamabad’s security arrangements.

Anglicans and Pentecostals also took part in the initiative. From Rawalpindi to Mardan, hundreds of people prayed for the victims of the Bacha Khan University attack, calling for peace and tolerance in the country. For Muslim leader, "This is a great gesture by the Church,” adding “We will work together for peace” and promote “peaceful coexistence."

Bishop of Islamabad: "At Christmas we relaunch the message of peace for all humanity. Education real answer to fundamentalist barbarism." Priest in Peshawar: "Psychological assistance to the victims." 148 people died in the attack, including 132 children. Day of mourning in Pakistan; the highest authorities present at a ceremony for the repose of the souls of the victims of the Taliban school massacre.

The Lahore authorities have issued a warning for possible attacks during Advent and festive season. Christian community main target, already the subject of attempted attack last March. Nostalgia for decorations and songs of the past, but now "everything is empty." Imam of the Grand Mosque of Lahore calls on authorities to "take all necessary security measures."

Sana John, aged 13, was kidnapped on her way to school. The family reported her disappearance, but police and the courts fail to intervene. Local Muslim mafia threaten family. The father tells AsiaNews: "I wander from office to office in search of justice, in vain."

Arson attack occurred at 2.30am local time. Gawahi TV was born three years ago from donations of Catholics and Protestants to "spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to people of all faiths." The station was destroyed by the flames. The broadcaster had received threats but the authorities had denied any security measures.

​Pakistan’s Ahmadi Muslim community has about four million members, often victimised in “the name of religion". A chipboard factory was destroyed after its owner was falsely accused of having a copy of the Qur‘an burnt. For Catholic priest, “We must pray more to send a message of peace in such sad times."