Pakistan`s blasphemy laws have been in effect since 1947 and cover a wide variety of offences and punishments. The laws that are considered to be the most outrageous by many are- death or life in prison for blasphemy against the Prophet Muhammad; three years in jail for insulting a Muslim; and life in prison for purposely destroying or defacing the Koran.
Over the past few years, several prominent political figures have been murdered for saying that they believe these laws should be changed. On January 4, 2011, Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer was murdered for supporting a woman who was sentenced to death for blasphemy. On March 2, 2011, Federal Minister for Minorities Affairs Shahbaz Bhatti was murdered due to his efforts in trying to reform the laws.
These blasphemy laws clearly deny freedom of speech as any ill words against Islam are punishable by imprisonment and even death. Many people live in fear as this law divides the country`s Muslims from the rest of the religious groups.
Tell the government of Pakistan that it is time for change and that these blasphemy laws must be reformed in order to provide a safe, respectful and equal Pakistan.
We the undersigned ask that the government of Pakistan reform its blasphemy laws. The murders of Salmaan Taseer and Shahbaz Bhatti clearly indicate that it is time for change as these laws are dividing Pakistanis. Freedom of expression and freedom of speech are essential in a unified and peaceful country and these blasphemy laws do not support that. The people of Pakistan must be considered equal in the eyes of the law and favoring one religion over another is not just or fair.
The Pakistani people need you to lead them. You must be a peaceful and just leader and promote a country that fosters equality and respect. Please show you people that you are a just leader by reforming these blasphemy laws.
Thank you.
