January 16, 2006	Monday	Zilhaj 15, 1426

KARACHI, Jan 15: MQM chief Altaf Hussain has congratulated all activists and workers of his party for making the Sunday rally in Karachi against the US missile attack in Bajaur Agency a historical success. In a message faxed from London, he also paid tributes to all Haq Parast legislators, ministers, advisers and party workers for organizing the rally and participating in it in huge numbers on a short notice of just six hours.

He said that the courage and determination shown by the MQM elders, mothers, sisters and workers had further strengthened his own resolve and determination.

Repeating his demand for an immediate end to the army actions in Balochistan, Waziristan and other areas of the country, and shelving of the controversial Kalabagh Dam project, he warned of a bigger rally and a protest campaign if the demands were not met. MQM leaders and workers would not hesitate to sacrifice their lives, he added.

“If the Pakistan army will not stop its action against its own civilians, then the time is not far when the 98 per cent people will stand up against this action.”

Mentioning the recent missile attack by US forces in Bajaur Agency, he said: “If the army is incapable of defending the country’s borders, then there appears to be no need for this institution.”

He prayed for the victims of the raid in Bajaur Agency and army action in Balochistan, and assured the people of these areas that the MQM and its workers stood shoulder to shoulder with them. They also shared their sorrow and grief, he added.

Mr Hussain reminded the rulers that the worst ever army operation against the MQM, which had commenced on June 19, 1992, the party could not be wiped out.

“Rather, MQM leaders and workers are stronger and more determined then ever today, and they are prepared to courageously struggle for their rights.”

He said the MQM Coordination Committee was analyzing the violation of the assurances held out by the president and prime minister on the question of Balochistan and Kalabagh Dam. If the government failed to keep its promises, then the MQM would be free to review its position, he said.

Addressing party activists, legislators, nazims and other public representatives, Mr Hussain hoped that they would not disappoint citizens in general and party colleagues in particular.