Hamid urges politicians to stand united against terrorism
By Adnan Rafique

ISLAMABAD—Caretaker Minister for Interior Lt. Gen. ® Hamid Nawaz Khan Thursday urged political parties to stand united against terrorism and do not appear soft on terrorists and extremists as they could regroup and harm the country. Terrorism is a national issue and all mainstream political parties must take a clear stand during political gatherings on this common problem, the Minister told a private television channel (Aaj).
He said it has been noticed that some major political parties are reluctant to comment on the issue of terrorism in public during their election campaign and do not clear their stance as to what measures they would adopt to uproot this menace from the society, if voted into power.
“Political parties should convey their clear stance on terrorism,” he added. To a question, Hamid Nawaz Khan underlined the need to keep strict check on the facilitators of terrorists and extremists operating in the country. He said involvement of foreign elements in terrorist activities could not be ruled out.
The Minister urged lema and religious scholars to play their due role in creating awareness among masses about the true spirit of Islam which is a religion of peace and brotherhood and does not allow anybody to take lives of innocent people.
He said media could also play an important and effective role to educate people. Hamid Gnats termed terrorism the biggest threat to the country and said there must be unanimous stand of government, opposition and all political parties to fight and uproot it from the society. To a question about law and order situation in NWFP, especially in tribal areas, he said local people are cooperating with the government against militant elements.