It is with great sorrow that we mourn the loss of Benazir Bhutto today. She was a beacon not only for democracy, but also for hope and progress in the Muslim world. She was a woman who fought tyranny and was willing to be imprisoned in her own home for this cause she so deeply believed. Her courage was particularly admirable as a woman in a very intolerant environment. I applaud her supporters as well, who I trust will continue to see past the rhetoric of extremists to carry on the message of freedom irrespective of gender, ethnicity or belief.
Here was one of the best that Pakistan had to offer, who risked her life selflessly to uphold the democratic process in opposition to a military dictator. Her example should encourage more of the best in our country to engage in the process for which many in our country’s history have given, and many throughout the world continue to give their lives.
