Despite threats from the Taliban, Catholics are working for the good of the country

Despite threats from the Taliban, Catholics are working for the good of the country
(AsiaNews)
The Catholics in Pakistan have chosen to continue their work for the good of the country and its people despite visible tensions and delicate situation existing there. In the past few weeks, the Taliban have threatened leaders of Pakistan’s religious minorities as well as volunteers from NGOs involved in helping refugees from the Swat Valley. The Christian community has also become a target for fundamentalists who demand conversion to Islam and the payment of money. The Taliban has threatened to kill anyone who refuses to obey orders. Generally the threats of abductions are meant to extort money and the overall situation is troubling; but not bad enough to prevent people from doing their work. At the same time the organisations involved in helping refugees from the Swat Valley and the Malakand Division are playing an important role by providing food, water and basic items. However, for the three million refugees the slow trek home has begun, according to the news report. Most of the territory is under the military control. For the NJCP executive secretary, Pakistan “is going through a phase of transition in its process of democratisation”. He is certain that the government will be able to “settle the conflict and improve security.” Further he added that Christians and Muslims must work towards a common goal. This is the commitment they made as members of the NCJP, and this despite threats and attacks from radicals. “For this reason it is even more important that religion become a factor of unity,” Peter Jacob said. “This is our request, goal and the basis of our work.”