No security for Malala’s book launch

http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa coalition government of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and Jamaat-e-Islami on Monday withdrew security for the launch of Malala Yousafzai’s book ‘I am Malala’, organisers said.

“A senior police official told us this evening that no security for the programme can be guaranteed,” Khadim Hussain, who runs Baacha Khan Education Foundation, told Daily Times.

“When the government official says no security can be guaranteed one can understand what does it mean – a plain refusal to allow holding of any programme.”

The launch of Malala’s book, which made headlines after its author became a famous personality for standing up against the Taliban, was jointly organised by Baacha Khan Education Foundation, Strengthening Participatory Organisation and Area Study Centre. Khadim Hussain claimed KP Minister for Information Shah Farman and Minister for Local Government Inayatur Rehman “made direct government intervention” urging relevant authorities to not allow the programme to take place.

“When the relevant authorities refused... a senior police official told the organisers the government cannot guarantee security,” he said. “We are discussing different options as to what alternative the organisers may opt for as no final decision has been taken yet,” Khadim Hussain said.