The following is a statement by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim issued through his lawyers in respect of the recent terrorist attacks in Paris. The statement is issued by him in his capacity as Chairman of the World Forum for Muslim Democrats.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the President and people of France and in particular the families and friends of those killed in the recent terrorist attacks in Paris. Although I speak from a prison cell in Malaysia, having been unjustly denied of my freedom, that does not present an obstacle to the deep sadness and outrage anyone must feel upon hearing of such heinous and despicable acts.
These despicable acts of savage and wanton killing of innocent civilians including women and young persons deserve our unreserved condemnation. We must join hands with all like minded forces, eschewing all parochial boundaries of race and religion, in one resolute message – that such premeditated and cruel killing is simply not acceptable.
The small group of terrorists did not act alone and those responsible for planning this crime must be brought to justice.
Their objectives were to create fear and perhaps to provoke similar retaliatory actions of hate. It is imperative we ensure that they fail to do so.
We must remember that they do not speak for or represent the overwhelming majority of peace-loving human beings.
Anwar Ibrahim”
