'Palestinians need empathy, not just sympathy'

Hundreds of people with disabilities gathere to demand end to genocide in Gaza

KARACHI:

Hundreds of disabled people in Karachi assembled at main Rashid Minhas Road to show their resolve against genocide in Gaza by Israel and they demanded of those in the corridors of powers to act decisively against the genocide in Gaza.

The protest demonstration was hosted by the Jamaat-e-Isalami (JI) Karachi on Sunday. A large number of people with disabilities participated in the protest demonstration. JI leaders, elected representatives, and disabled leaders addressed the protest demonstration.

Two members, from the Disabled Welfare Association, were transcribing the speeches into sign language for the audience.

The protestors were carrying placards and banners, inscribed with their demands and symbols, chanted slogans against Israel and her allied forces.

JI Karachi Public Aid Committee Chairman Saifuddin Advocate delivered the keynote address. He hailed the participants of the protest and told them that a disabled person - Shaikh Ahmed Yaseen - had founded the resistance movement in Palestine entitled Hamas.

Gulshan Town Chairman Dr Fawad Ahmed in his address shed light on the role of Karachi and Karachiites for the Muslim world. He also hailed the disabled people for showing their resolve and valour.

Gulshan Town Councilor Dr Rahat - himself a visually impaired person - questioned the national authorities over their unfortunate role of silent spectators. No one across the Muslim world responded to Israeli bombs with bombs, he said.

Disabled Welfare Association President Rehan and Vice President Hussain Ali also addressed the event. They reminded the global conscience that it was an obligation for the global community - each and every one of us to standup for the people of Gaza.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 27^th, 2024.