Did the Apostolic Church President Urge Bilawal Bhutto Over PPP Atrocities?
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Synopsis
In a poignant letter, the President of the Apostolic Church Pakistan, Afrahim Roshan, appeals to Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, exposing serious allegations against PPP leaders regarding harassment and false accusations. His urgent call for justice highlights the plight of religious minorities in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for immediate protection and legal accountability.
Key Takeaways
- Urgent Appeal: Afrahim Roshan calls for justice and protection for his family.
- Harassment and Assault: Allegations of physical attacks by PPP leaders raise concerns about minority rights.
- Judicial Neglect: Despite reporting the incident, no protective measures have been taken.
- Human Rights Concerns: A report highlights increasing threats to religious minorities in Pakistan.
- Call for Action: Roshan demands accountability and protection from the state.
Islamabad, July 9 (NationPress) The President of the Apostolic Church Pakistan, Afrahim Roshan, penned a letter to Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), urgently calling for protection and justice regarding the harassment, false police complaints, and threats targeting a Christian minority family by PPP leaders.
In his letter, Roshan detailed a false FIR (No. 359/2025, PS Clifton, Karachi) filed against his sons, Mathew Markas and Johnathan, which falsely accused them of defrauding Rs. 3.2 million and stealing a Toyota Corolla (BRK-373)—a vehicle rightfully registered to them.
“Upon seeking justice in court, instead of receiving protection, we were assaulted. Zahid Hussain Soomro, Advocate and General Secretary of the Peoples Lawyers Forum (PPP), District South Karachi, orchestrated a group of over 20 lawyers to physically attack me and my sons right there in the court,” he stated.
Roshan recounted prior threats from the PPP leader, who ominously warned, “Next time you come to court, we will break your legs.”
“We were beaten, humiliated, and forced to escape. Although the police were present and witnessed the assault, no action has been taken to date. My sons remain in jail custody. This incident was not merely physical; it was an assault on our dignity and our faith in the justice system,” he remarked.
Roshan explained their attempts to resolve the issue amicably during a meeting at the office of Arshid Naqvi, President of the Peoples Lawyers Forum (Karachi Division), but the “aggressive and disrespectful” demeanor of Zahid Soomro made resolution unattainable.
“Despite our loyalty to Pakistan and our unwavering prayers for its leadership, armed forces, and national peace, we are treated as if we have no rights, as if being a minority renders us invisible and undeserving of protection,” he lamented.
“No significant actions have been taken to investigate the injustices we have endured or to ensure our safety. This negligence makes us feel as if we are being treated differently, possibly due to our minority status. It is painful to realize that our voices go unheard simply because we lack power. Justice seems reserved for the powerful, leaving those of us with less influence to suffer in silence,” Roshan emphasized.
The Church President called for immediate police protection for his family and legal representatives, a transparent, unbiased investigation into the false FIR and the assault, and legal proceedings against Advocate Zahid Soomro and all involved in the threats and attack.
He also demanded the immediate return of the family’s two vehicles and a public commitment from PPP leadership that minority rights are not mere slogans but genuine, actionable protections.
Earlier this year, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan released a report titled “Under Siege: Freedom of Religion or Belief in 2023-24,” which revealed ongoing threats to freedom of religion or belief in Pakistan, highlighting an alarming rise in religiously motivated violence and discrimination.
The report pointed out a growing trend of mob-led assaults on the homes and places of worship of religious minorities.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the ongoing struggles faced by religious minorities in Pakistan. The allegations made by Afrahim Roshan underscore the urgent need for justice and protection for vulnerable communities. In a nation where every citizen deserves equal rights, the plight of minorities must not be overlooked. The media must amplify these voices and advocate for the protection of all citizens, regardless of their faith.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations were made by Afrahim Roshan?
Afrahim Roshan alleged that his sons faced harassment, false police complaints, and physical threats from PPP leaders, including a false FIR accusing them of fraud and theft.
Who is Zahid Hussain Soomro?
Zahid Hussain Soomro is an Advocate and General Secretary of the Peoples Lawyers Forum (PPP), District South Karachi, implicated in the alleged assault on Roshan and his family.
What actions have been taken regarding the allegations?
Despite reporting the incident, no actions have been taken by the authorities to investigate the assault or to ensure the safety of Roshan's family.
What does the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan report indicate?
The report highlights a worsening situation for religious minorities in Pakistan, with increasing incidents of violence and discrimination against them.
What are Roshan's demands from the PPP leadership?
Roshan demands immediate police protection, a transparent investigation into the allegations, the return of his family's vehicles, and a public reaffirmation of minority rights by the PPP leadership.
