LAHORE: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) on Tuesday marked 10 years to the murder of senior lawyer Rashid Rehman with a demand to bring his killer(s) to justice.

HRCP Multan coordinator Mr Rehman was gunned down in connection with his work as a human rights defender, while defending a victim of the misuse of the blasphemy laws.

Even as the right to freedom of conscience, thought and belief continues to shrink in Pakistan, Mr Rehman remains an example of ironclad courage and commitment.

HRCP reminds the state that no rights defender should ever have to pay with their life for the work they do.

If the state claims to uphold its rights commitments, it must identify and punish Mr Rehman’s killers and make a concerted effort to ensure that the blasphemy laws are not weaponised any longer.

HRCP Chairperson Asad Butt describes Rashid Rehman as the courageous son of the land and a beacon for human rights in the Seraiki belt.

HRCP council member Lubna Nadeem fondly recalls his unwavering commitment to the people, echoing the steadfast words of Aung San Suu Kyi: “Fear is a habit, I’m not afraid.”

Despite the passing of a decade, Rehman’s killers evade justice, and his family denounces the trial as a travesty of justice. Civil society activists paid homage and honour Rashid Rehman’s enduring legacy and his invaluable contributions to the Seraiki Waseb and beyond.

Published in Dawn, May 8th, 2024