Musharraf urges nation to encounter difficulties with Equanimity 
By Aziz Malik ‘Pakistan Times’ Federal Bureau Chief

ISLAMABAD: President General Pervez Musharraf urged the nation to face the difficulties they may encounter with patience and equanimity and strictly adhere to the Islamic principles by following the path of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA).

The President in a message on Ashura said, “the day of grief and sorrow reminds us of the supreme sacrifice rendered by Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) at Karbala, to uphold the lofty principles of righteousness, values of Islam and the humanity, to confront evil.”

He said Islamic history was replete with such examples where good clashed with evil.

“This unique tragedy will continue to guide us forever and remain a source of strength and inspiration for those who wage a struggle against tyranny and repression,” the President added.

The President said, “for me the best and the most dignified manner to pay respects to the greatest of all martyrs is to follow in the path chosen by him.”

The President said the manner in which Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) sacrificed his life and that of his companions to uphold righteousness is of great importance to the Muslims.

“His supreme sacrifice serves as a practical example of how to confront the evil till the day of judgement and has rekindled the spirit of freedom among the Muslims who are yearning for their rights,” the President added.

He urged the nation to encounter difficulties with equanimity by strictly adhering to Islamic teachings and work to uphold and broaden the reach of the message of Allah Almighty.

Message by PM

And, Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has urged the nation to follow the injunctions of Quran and Sunnah, rise above feelings of prejudice, petty differences and hatred and work for the mutual good of humanity by inculcating love, brotherhood and unity amongst their ranks.

In a message on the 10th of Muharram-ul-Haram - ‘Youm-e-Ashur’, the Prime Minister said the day carries special significance for the Muslims as on this day the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions offered unparalleled sacrifices to uphold the cause of Islam and the supremacy of truth and justice.

“They witnessed the unique chapter of Islamic history that drew a clear line between virtue and vice. Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) alongwith handful companions faced the challenge with endurance and determination and bravely fought the forces of tyranny and oppression.”

The Prime Minister said difference of opinion was the sign of a vibrant society. However, pointed out that to force one’s will on others was in total contravention of Islamic values and injunctions.

“History bears testimony to the fact that taking recourse to grouping and sectarianism has always resulted in irreparable loss to the Muslims.”

The Prime Minister said “We have to follow the Islamic injunctions in letter and spirit to hold aloft the banner of Islam and ensure the survival, safety and well being of the Muslim Ummah.

“We should rise above prejudice, feelings of hatred, shortsightedness and petty differences to promote among us the feelings of mutual love, brotherhood, unity, tranquility and justice,” he added.

The Prime Minister said affection for the Prophet (PBUH) is a part of every Muslim’s faith.

“This affection and love calls upon us to follow His teachings and seek guidance from each and every facet of His life.”

“May Allah grant every Muslim the ability to lead his life in accordance with the injunctions of Quran and Sunnah and follow the Uswa-e-Shabbiri,” the Prime Minister said.●