Maine reaction to Bhutto's assassination

[ticapnews]

AUGUSTA - Maine Congressman Mike Michaud is calling the assassination of Pakistani opposition leader Benazir Bhutto "an absolute tragedy for the Pakistani people and for the world." Michaud, a Democrat representing Maine's 2nd District, says Bhutto "was a symbol of hope and democracy for her people." Michaud calls her murder "a disgusting crime" says the U.S. must support the Pakistani people in their struggle for democracy.

The United States had been at the forefront of foreign powers trying to arrange reconciliation between Bhutto and Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf.

Maine Sen. Snowe said in a written statement that "the assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto is a devastating tragedy and a terrible blow to the cause of democracy in Pakistan."

"Having courageously returned to unify her country, she represented the democratic hopes and aspirations of the Pakistani people - which are now dangerously imperiled just days before historic elections were scheduled to be held. It is therefore vital that the elections continue, and that the U.S. seek to ensure stability in Pakistan," Snowe said.

"I first met Benazir Bhutto while she was serving as Prime Minister, and she was clearly an extraordinary individual who was deeply devoted to her vision for the welfare of the Pakistani people," Snowe continued. "Under tremendous risk, she placed her life on the line for the future of her nation, making the ultimate sacrifice in this brutal and horrific event. Our thoughts are with the people of Pakistan, the family of Benazir Bhutto, and the families of her supporters who were also killed in this cowardly act of terrorism."

http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=158327&ac=PHnws