Pakistan: Salmaan Taseer's killer pleads guilty in Punjab court

Qadri was feted during earlier court appearances by lawyers and madrassa students, who showered rose petals on him. Hardline religious groups have warned the government and courts not to punish Qadri for his crime.

Ahmadiyya Times | News Watch |
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By Press Trust Of India | September 17, 2011

Islamabad: The police guard, who gunned down Punjab governor Salmaan Taseer eight months ago for opposing the country's controversial blasphemy law, pleaded guilty in a Pakistani anti-terrorism court on Saturday.
Malik Mumtaz Hussain Qadri, 26, pleaded guilty during proceedings of the
anti-terrorism court, being held at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi for security reasons.

In his statement recorded in the court, Qadri admitted to killing Taseer and gave the reasons behind his action.


The judge subsequently adjourned the case till September 24.

Qadri, who was part of Taseer's security detail, shot dead the outspoken politician from the ruling Pakistan People's Party outside a restaurant in Islamabad on January 4, sending
shockwaves across the world.

He laid down his weapon and surrendered moments after the killing.

He later told the media that he had killed Taseer for opposing the controversial blasphemy law and for coming to the aid of Christian woman who was sentenced to death for allegedly insulting the Prophet Mohammed.

Qadri was feted during earlier court appearances by lawyers and madrassa students, who showered rose petals on him.

Hardline religious groups have warned the government and courts not to punish Qadri for his crime.


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