Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Islamabad (Fides Service) - Although the Federal Ministry that presided has just been "dissolved" - after a Provincial decentralization plan approved by the Parliament - the Catholic Akram Gill, until yesterday Minister of State for Religious and Minority Affairs is still confident: "The government is trying to protect the security of minorities. The situation is not easy, but we have been assured by Prime Minister Gilani with regards to religious minorities in the life of the nation", he says in an interview to Fides. The guarantees are expected to result, soon, in the establishment of a new "Federal Ministry for human rights and religious harmony", which should absorb some of the skills of the old department.
Pakistan abolishes the Ministry of Minorities: was it too inconvenient?
It is the application of a legal process: according to the 18th amendment, approved by Parliament, some ministries had to be abolished, including the one for minorities. This process could not be stopped. But the government Commission for constitutional amendments suggested that some of the skills of minorities remain at the federal level. This is why Prime Minister Gilani has assured the establishment of a new 'federal department for inter-religious harmony and human rights' that can deal with minority issues. The National Commission for Minorities has also been working on this project, which will have a budget and where I could have a role.
Do you think that minority rights are sufficiently protected in the new department?
We have no other options. We endeavor to make it work effectively. One will have to work closely with provincial departments and coordinate the work. We hope that what the Prime Minister said does not remain only a promise. We will see, but I am confident.
According to some, violence against Christians could increase: do you agree?
The situation of Christians is not easy, but we have been assured by Prime Minister Gilani with regards to religious minorities in the life of the nation. Pakistan is a nation at the forefront of the fight against international terrorism and radical Islamic groups are strong. There are problems, but the government has explicitly said that it intends to give greater commitment to safety, security and protection of minorities.
How do you evaluate the developments on Bhatti’s murder investigation?
The Commission's investigation of the Interior Ministry has presented the first results. On my behalf I agree with the establishment of a Special Judicial Commission of Inquiry, to ensure impartiality and effectiveness. I think it is important to continue: to identify the perpetrators of Shabhaz Bhatti’s murder would be a positive signal from the Government towards the Christians, who feel helpless. And if the national means fail, one can also think of an international investigation.
What hopes do Christians have for the future of the country?
I would say they have good hope. I wish that political leaders and Christian religious leaders collaborated more between them: from this alliance good fruits for the rights of Christians could emerge.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 01/07/2011)
