Conspiracy behind killing?

Was the heinous act of murder which ended the life of Governor Salman Taseer the act of a single, deranged fanatic — or was there a wider conspiracy behind it?

The most direct suggestion that Taseer’s murder was politically motivated has come from law minister Babar Awan, who has said the intention was to derail the democratic process at a time when it is already in crisis. Though it is not clear how the murder of Taseer would tie up with the withdrawal of the JUI-F and MQM from treasury benches, it certainly adds to the problems faced by the PPP. President Zardari has been cautious, hinting at political motives but stressing that this aspect needed to be investigated.

There is no doubt that an investigation of high quality — and credibility — is essential. It is shocking that a man with a background as dubious as that of assassin Mumtaz Qadri was allowed to guard the governor. Qadri, associated in the past with at least one religious outfit, had been rejected for Special Branch duty. He himself had made the request to be assigned with the governor. Was the decision to favour him simply the result of a nonchalant approach? Or was there more to it? Had Qadri really informed his fellow guards of his plans as some reports suggest? These questions need to be answered.

We need to ensure that we do not get caught up in a tangled web of intrigue or constant exchange of accusations. Cooperation between the Punjab government, the central government, the police and other agencies is vital. If there was a broader conspiracy, it must be uncovered; if not, measures must be taken to remove men like Qadri from the police force. At the very least, negligence was involved in the death of Taseer. Others, too, could die if the matter is not properly inquired into and remedial measures taken.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 7^th, 2011.