27 December 2007
Pretoria â South African President Thabo Mbeki, on behalf of the government
and people of South Africa and on his own behalf condemned the assassination of
Ms Benazir Bhutto and other Pakistani nationals in Rawalpindi, Pakistan earlier
today.
South Africa condemns all forms of violence to promote political objectives
and in this regard reiterates its oft-stated view that violence can only beget
violence.
Accordingly, the South African government appeals to all political parties
and the people of Pakistan to remain calm during this very turbulent period in
its history and remain committed to the political processes towards
elections.
South Africa joins the international community in reaching out in thought
and prayer to the family of Benazir Bhutto as well as to those who have lost
their loved ones.
South Africa expresses its confidence that the authorities will leave no
stone unturned to ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous act face the
full might of the law.
Enquiries: Ronnie Mamoepa
Cell: 082 990 4853
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
27 December 2007
