The couple are the recipients of the 2026 Ludovic Trarieux International Human Rights Prize, having distinguished themselves through their defence of individuals accused of blasphemy, as well as members of minority groups. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has called for a fair trial and expressed concern regarding judicial harassment and the use of anti-terrorism laws against people who defend fundamental freedoms.
A resolution is approved by a near unanimous vote condemning violence and injustice against believers. Even though its list of offenders is not complete, it shows Asia as the continent with the largest number of countries violating religious freedom.
The new prime minister is Mohammedmian Soomro, former Senate president, loyal supporter of general Musharraf. The president transfers power to revoke state of emergency to his office, while Bhutto is released and demands an end to the military dictatorship.
After five years pro-Musharraf National Assembly is dissolved at the stroke of midnight tonight. Elections are scheduled for January 9 but arrests and human rights violations continue throughout the country. Justice and Peace Commission calls for a return to constitutional rule and an independent judiciary.
Pakistan authorities have issued a warrant for her detention in a senator’s home. Over one thousand officers forced to protect the building given the high number of supporters who surround her. The break down of dialogue with Musharraf confirmed.
The president of Pakistan’s Human Rights Commission makes the charges, stressing the unconstitutionality of the action and how it violates the population’s human rights. Bhutto ends power-sharing talks with the general.
In the valley of Swat, north western Pakistan, Islamic militants have launched a second attack in less than a month on the gigantic sacred statue. The head, shoulders and feet have been destroyed while the militants threaten a third and final attack.
For an entire day the army prevented her from attending demonstrations. Throughout the country the police crack down on rallies and arrest democratic activists, while suicide attacks threaten protests. Bhutto urges Musharraf to call elections. A protest march proposed for November 13th.
The government yesterday arrested thousands of Pakistan’s Peoples Party supporters ahead of a rally called for by the ex premier who has been blocked within her house by police. Islamabad declares it fears suicide attacks.
The ex premier has attempted to leave the house where she is being kept under guard to make her way to anti-government protests called for by the People’s Party. Speaking to the crowd from a megaphone the ex premier had warned police not to “try to stop her”. Clashes between police and supporters awaiting her.
In a “frank” telephone call; the US president explains’ to Islamabad’s general that he has no right to remain as head of the army and head of state. Despite this he adds that Pakistan is their best ally in the war on terrorism. Preparations ahead of tomorrows anti government protest, organised by Bhutto.
Former Pakistani PM begins talks with opposition parties to deal with Musharraf’s state of emergency. Many parties stay away, questioning the popular leader’s ambiguous position vis-à-vis the coup d’état. Internet use grows as TV is censored.
Sacked Chief justice calls on Pakistanis to take to the streets in protest. Despite the crackdown demonstrations against the state of emergency continue. About one lawyer in four has been placed under arrest. Government makes vague pledges about the upcoming scheduled parliamentary elections. United states calls on Musharraf to quit as army chief. Minorities warn that by his actions the president is weakening the moderates and strengthening the extremists.
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