STATEMENT BY HIGH COMMISSIONER FOR HUMAN RIGHTS ON DEATH OF FORMER PRIME MINISTER OF PAKISTAN BENAZIR BHUTTO

Geneva, 27 December 2007: - - The High Commissioner for Human Rights, Louise Arbour, today expressed shock and deep sympathy over the death of the former Prime Minister of Pakistan Benazir Bhutto, and strongly condemned the reported shooting and suicide bombing at an election rally in Riwalpindi. "I trust that the Pakistani authorities will do everything possible to bring those responsible to justice rapidly, in full observance of international human rights standards" she said.

The High Commissioner also expressed concern about the impact of this event on the upcoming elections and urged the Government of Pakistan to ensure that all necessary protective mechanisms are in place to safeguard a free, fair and transparent electoral process.