
Pakistan rallies oppose extremism
Bangkok Post
Islamabad (dpa) – Thousands of moderate opponents of religious extremists on Thursday joined rallies in several Pakistani cities protesting against alleged « terrorism » of citizens by radical students of an Islamabad mosque.
Chanting anti-extremist slogans, members of civil society, human rights and women’s groups demanded tough government action against administrators at the notorious Lal Masjid, or Red Mosque, and adjoining madrassa religious school which is trying to enforce Taliban-style law in the capital.
A procession of chanting demonstrators marched to Islamabad’s parliament building and presidential palace, waving banners and placards that read « Terrorism is Unacceptable » and « No Coercion in Religion. »
Similar rallies took place in the cities of Lahore, Karachi and Peshawar. (Lire la suite…)