Remembering Shahbaz Bhatti

Today marks the 1st anniversary of the killing of Pakistan’s Catholic Minister for Minorities Shahbaz Bhattiwho was gunned down as he travelled in a car in Islamabad. He was known as a vocal opponent of Pakistan's blasphemy law and continued to work for the rights of minorities despite threats made against him. His brother, Dr. Paul Bhatti is Advisor to Prime Minister on National Harmony. He told Vatican Radio his brother’s legacy continues to be an inspiration for Christians and and for all persons of good will. "We are proud of so much he has done for the minorities, for the poor and marginalized people," said Bhatti, adding that his brother's Christian faith was internal to his commitment to justice in society. "This," he said, "is the example that most of the people, especially young people in Pakistan would like to follow."

The investigation into Shahbaz Bhatti’s murder has made little progress, with initial efforts focused on the Christian community and financial disputes with Bhatti’s family. The Pakistani Taliban eventually claimed responsibility for his murder. It was only in December of last year that the government issued an arrest warrant: for Pakistanis residing in the Persian Gulf. No one currently is in custody. All of those arrested for suspected involvement have been released. Listen