Attack On Sarabjit Un-Islamic: Ajmer Sharif Head
New Age Islam News Bureau
28 Apr 2013
Photo: Ajmer Sharif dargah dewan Zainul Abedin Ali Khan (PTI photo)
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India
• Attack on Sarabjit un-Islamic: Ajmer Sharif head
• Runaway Workers Major Headache for Indian Consulate in Jeddah
• Muslim groups condemn attack on Sarabjit
• Kokrajhar tense after Muslims, Bodos clash
• 2 retired Indian judges to visit Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore
• Indian delegation discusses Nitaqat fall-out with Saudis
• Kazakhstan positive to India’s hydrocarbons quest
• LeT planned fidayeen attack against Kashmir IGP in his office
Pakistan
• Sufism Will End Terrorism in the Country, Says PTI Chairman
• Dr Tahirul Qadri tells ‘followers’ to boycott election, distributing ‘provoking • leaflets’
Reign of terror in Karachi continues: Bloodied, but unbowed
• 9 killed, 30 injured in blasts in northwest Pakistan
• Sad' chapter in Sarabjit's story: Pakistani daily
• People will not accept ‘danda-bardar Shariat’: MQM Chief
• Selective targeting of political parties is Taliban Shura’s decision
• Bomb kills five at Kohat election office: Officials
• Pakistan allows family to see Sarabjit, restricts consular access
• Chances of Sarabjit Singh’s survival slim, say Pak doctors
• Pakistan faces prospect of hung parliament
• Pakistan 'Robin Hood' aims to wrest election from rich
Africa
• Nigerian senator says 228 killed in gunfight with Islamists
• Gunmen surround Libyan ministry in protest at Qaddafi-era officials
• More aid needed to site of Nigeria bloodbath: Senator
Arab World
'• Sexist' Egyptian Info Minister causes more feminist outrage
• Egypt judge could be executed for encouraging foreign intervention: Salafist leader
• Syrian army ordered to use chemical weapons, defected general tells Al Arabiya
• Iraq suspends 10 satellite TV channels for promoting ‘sectarianism’
• Missile fired on Syria town kills civilians
• Lebanese family releases eight Alawite Syrians
• Egypt's 'first' no-alcohol hotel opens in Hurghada
• Egypt court upholds detention period for Mubarak
• Syria rejects US, UK chemical arms claims
• Driver given 20 days to raise SR 150,000 in blood money
• Shoura member files libel suit against Dawa activist cleric
Mideast Asia
• Iran's clerics wary of Mashaei, the man who 'bewitched' Ahmadinejad
• Israeli air strikes on Gaza target Islamic Jihad bases, says army
• Gunmen kill 5 soldiers in Yemen
• Israel's apology to Turkey: Nothing comes for free?
North America
• ‘I’m not the strapping Muslim socialist I used to be,’ banters Obama
• U S vice president and the very real problem of ‘knock-off Jihadis’
• Boston bombing suspects’ mother urged Tamerlan to ‘go to Palestine’
• Older Boston bombing suspect spoke of 'jihad' with mother: Report
South Asia
• Maldives faces “significant” human rights challenges, despite “considerable progress”
• Gunmen release 9 Afghan mine clearers: officials
• NATO plane crash in Afghanistan kills four
• Roadside bomb kills three policemen in Afghanistan
• Coalition governments incompatible with presidential system, Nasheed
• Hefazat attack on Khatib, shrine condemned
• Jamaat-Shibir in ‘last attempt’ to foil war crimes trial
• The true meaning of need assessment
Southeast Asia
• Bekasi Ahmadis remain in sealed mosque
• Najib happy about Indians’ rising Trust in BN
• Chua Soi Lek chief blasts Pak Lah for being Islamic
• Official says militants kill 2 Filipino soldiers
• RI dispatches peacekeeping mission to Sudan
• Indonesian militant convicted of beheading 3 Christian schoolgirls escapes while visiting wife
Europe
• Campaigners protest British drone strikes in Afghanistan
• Frenchman has no regrets after Afghan hostage ordeal
Compiled by New Age Islam News Bureau
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India
Attack on Sarabjit un-Islamic: Ajmer Sharif head
PTI | Apr 28, 2013
JAIPUR: The brutal assault on Sarabjit Singh in a Pakistani jail was an un-Islamic act and such incidents could create a negative atmosphere for the minority community in India, the spiritual head of Ajmer Sharif dargah said on Sunday.
"The attack on Sarabjit by fellow inmates is an un-Islamic act in an Islamic country ... such incidents can create a negative atmosphere for the minority community in India," dargah Diwan Zainul Abedin Ali Khan told media in Ajmer.
Ali, who had boycotted the Ajmer dargah visit of Pakistan's then prime minister Raja Parvez Ashraf in March over the brutal killing of two Indian soldiers by Pakistani army at LoC, also demanded that the government address such issues effectively.
"The government should modify and strengthen its foreign policy to address such issues effectively," he said.
Ali suspected Pakistan's Inter Service Intelligence (ISI) of carrying out the attack on Sarabjit to avenge the hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru.
"It may be a conspiracy of ISI to revenge the hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru," Ali said.
He also condemned Uttar Pradesh minister Azam Khan's detention at Boston airport and said the Indian government should lodge a strong protest with the US.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Attack-on-Sarabjit-un-Islamic-Ajmer-Sharif-head/articleshow/19759953.cms
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Runaway Workers Major Headache for Indian Consulate in Jeddah
28 April 2013
The Indian Consulate in Jeddah is struggling to cope with rising numbers of "Huroob" or runaway workers, arriving in the city from all over the country, desperately seeking to go home. A total of 9,200 Indians have so far registered with the consulate for assistance.
Speaking with Arab News, Indian Consul General Faiz Ahmed Kidwai said that so far 9,200 Indians have registered with the consulate for assistance.
He disclosed that yesterday alone, the consulate received 1,379 applications. He said the Indian consular team in Najran received 125 applications on Friday, the Indian School in Tabuk received 200 applications, while 60 applications were received in Taif.
Kidwai said that only 37 Indian Umrah pilgrims have approached the consulate to seek repatriation back to India, and only a few women domestic workers also applied to go home.
Kidwai said that exclusive arrangements have been made for all applicants to submit forms at 10 counters with additional staff.
He said separate tents have been erected with basic facilities and special arrangements have been made to fill out forms for illiterate people. An exclusive telephone line with 24-hour service has been established to assist the community.
Kidwai said that the Indian diplomatic missions are fully equipped to implement the outcomes of a meeting between an Indian ministerial delegation and Saudi Labor Minister Adel Fakeih.
http://www.arabnews.com/news/449702
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Muslim groups condemn attack on Sarabjit
Mohammed Wajihuddin, TNN | Apr 28, 2013
MUMBAI: A section of Muslim community leaders have condemned the brutal attack on Indian national Sarabjit Singh in Pakistani jail. The leaders have demanded that India should strongly lodge its protest at the international forums against the gross violation of the rights of a prisoner and efforts should be made to bring him to India for better treatment.
"After the lone terrorist of Mumbai attack, Kasab, was captured alive, India ensured that he was not harmed in jail. He was hanged after the completion of the due process of law. Why this policy has not been followed in the case of Sarabjit?,"asked Syed Moin Ashraf, head of Madrasa Jamia Ashrafia. Ashraf added that Pakistan had lost the moral to be called a civilized country. "It is shameful that even prisoners are not safe in Pakistan," added Ashraf.
Many said that Sarabjit's family members should be allowed to bring back him to India for better treatment even if he is a prisoner. "India should put pressure on the international community to force Pakistan to allow Sarabjit's family members to meet him and, if he is not provided proper treatment in Pakistan, he should be allowed to be airlifted to a good hospital in India," said Rashid Azeem of All India Milli Council.
On Saturday, while protesting attack on Sarabjit, Nizamuddin Raeen, in-charge of Mumbai Congress's minority department, said that Sarabjit deserves best medical treatment even if that requires him to be brought to India. "We kept Kasab alive till his hanging according to the law of the land. Now that Sarabjit's right as a prisoner has been violated, he must be given best treatment," said Raeen.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Muslim-groups-condemn-attack-on-Sarabjit/articleshow/19761732.cms
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Kokrajhar tense after Muslims, Bodos clash
TNN | Apr 28, 2013
KOKRAJHAR: Duramari area of Kokrajhar district of Assam is under prohibitory orders under section 144 of CrPC following tension between Muslims and Bodos over a plot of government land.
Kokrajhar deputy commissioner Jayant Narlikar on Saturday said there was a dispute between Muslims and Bodos over occupying a plot of land at Thalitbari village in the Duramari area.
He added that some people from the minority community have been trying to construct temporary sheds on the land which was opposed by the Bodos living in nearby areas.
He said the situation is tense and there is possibility of a communal clash between the two over the disputed land. The district administration also sent security personnel to thwart any violence.
Headman of West Duramari village Abdul Malek Sheik said the plot belonged to Muslims and not Bodos. He added that they have been living at Duramari before they were born but the Bodos have been claiming it belonged to them.
He said the Kokrajhar additional DC has visited the disputed land and informed them that the district administration will verify the land documents. Sheik said they are unaware about prohibitory orders.
Another villager Ramjan Ali said that the Bodos do not have land in the disputed area and it belongs to the Muslims. He claimed that they have been living there for the last 90 years and will not allow the Bodos from preventing them from constructing houses.
In the next village, Bodo villagers Kathiram Narzary and Mangal Basumatary opposed any attempt to occupy the government land by Muslims saying that their expansion plans could lead to turmoil in the area.
The Bodos alleged that people from the minority community are trying to grab land everywhere. They also demanded the government to ensure the protection of land from people of suspected nationalities in the BTC area.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Kokrajhar-tense-after-Muslims-Bodos-clash/articleshow/19762138.cms
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2 retired Indian judges to visit Kot Lakhpat jail in Lahore
April 28, 2013
Pakistan's foreign ministry has said that doctors are working hard to revive Indian death row prisoner Sarabjit Singh, who remains unconscious on a ventilator after an attack in prison.
It said that the home department of Punjab and jail authorities are investigating the matter.
The ministry said it has also instructed its High Commission in New Delhi to facilitate provision of visas to family members of Sarabjit Singh who may wish to visit him during his hospitalization, a statement said. (Four visas have been granted to Sarabjit's family members, who will be leaving for Lahore via the Attari checkpost on Sunday.)
"On hearing of the incident and in view of its humanitarian nature, the government of Pakistan provided timely consular access and permitted two officials of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad to travel to Lahore and visit the prisoner late last (Friday) night," it said.
Full report at:
http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/newdelhi/Sarabjit-still-unconscious-2-retired-Indian-judges-to-visit-Kot-Lakhpat-jail-in-Lahore/Article1-1051569.aspx
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Indian delegation discusses Nitaqat fall-out with Saudis
ATUL ANEJA
Apr 28, 2013
A high level delegation led by Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi, met Saudi authorities to discuss ways to maximise the availability of alternative jobs to Indians hit by the Nitaqat scheme, and to smoothen the exit of those who may have to leave the country.
Accompanied by E. Ahamed, Minister of State for External Affairs, and Prime Minister’s Adviser T.K.A. Nair, Mr. Ravi met the Saudi Labour Minister Adel Fakieh, and Foreign Minister Saud Al Faisal. The visit focused on the “welfare of the Indian community in the context of the Nitaqat programme and also to clarify to the Indian community that the ongoing developments in Saudi Arabia would not adversely affect those who are currently working legally in Saudi Arabia,” an India Embassy statement said.
Full report at:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/world/indian-delegation-discusses-nitaqat-fallout-with-saudis/article4663427.ece
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Kazakhstan positive to India’s hydrocarbons quest
SANDEEP DIKSHIT
Apr 28, 2013
Delhi covets a stake in Kashagan oilfield
India’s decade-long quest for a bigger slice of the hydrocarbons pie in Central Asia got a leg up, thanks to a positive response from Kazakh President Nursultan Nazarbayev, said External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid who called on the long-serving leader on Friday.
With China having already cornered about 40 per cent of this country’s hydrocarbon assets, India’s assessment is that it can get a chunk of the remaining portion if New Delhi plays its political and diplomatic cards right.
Full report at:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kazakhstan-positive-to-indias-hydrocarbons-quest/article4661271.ece
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LeT planned fidayeen attack against Kashmir IGP in his office
AHMED ALI FAYYAZ
Apr 28, 2013
For, Shiv Murari Sahai crushed the street turmoil in the Valley in 2010
The Lashkar-e-Taiba’s top ranking militant Qari Naveed alias Fahadullah of Multan, Pakistan, has revealed how his organisation planned to eliminate the then Inspector-General Police of Kashmir Shiv Murari Sahai in a fidayeen attack at his office in 2012.
Arrested at Sopore in northern Kashmir on April 17, the LeT “divisional commander” is understood to have told his interrogators that the Pakistan-based conglomerate of Kashmir-specific militant groups, the Muttahida Jihad Council, had decided to eliminate the senior IPS officer for his success in crushing the Valley’s street turmoil in 2010. The fidayeen attack was assigned to the LeT.
Full report at:
http://www.thehindu.com/news/let-planned-fidayeen-attack-against-kashmir-igp-in-his-office/article4661251.ece
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Pakistan
Sufism Will End Terrorism in the Country, Says PTI Chairman
April 28, 2013
BAHAWALPUR / RAJANPUR: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan espoused “the teachings of Sufism” on Saturday and held out the hope that it would end terrorism in the country.
Addressing a public gathering in Rajanpur district’s Kot Mithan area on Saturday, Imran paid tribute to the services of Sufi saint Khawaja Ghulam Farid in promoting love for humanity and nature.
“The time has come for us to realise that the teachings of Islam and the teachings of the Sufi saints are one and the same,” said the PTI chief, adding that Sufi values were based on the idea of egalitarianism and the acceptance of all creeds and beliefs in society.
He called upon people to unite to confront terrorism and poverty in the country.
Imran said the May 11 polls provided people a chance to change the political status quo in the country. He maintained that feudalism had taken hold in most political parties, which as such strived towards dictatorship because of the silence of the common man. He also promised to bring an end to feudalism if PTI was voted to power.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/541536/promoting-peace-sufism-will-end-terrorism-in-the-country-says-imran/
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Dr Tahirul Qadri tells ‘followers’ to boycott election, distributing ‘provoking leaflets’
* MQI start distributing ‘provoking leaflets’ among voters
By Kashif Hussain
April 28, 2013
LAHORE: Minhaj ul Quran International (MQI) head Dr Tahirul Qadri has resumed his pseudo-politics from Canada, advising his followers-cum-voters to boycott the May 11 election for the sake of ‘saving’ the state.
Qadri, who is living in Canada nowadays, is likely to revisit Pakistan on May 5 to convince Pakistanis to stay away from the electoral process and hold sit-in protests outside all election commission offices across the country.
With this agenda, the MQI has started distributing hundreds of thousands of leaflets among the masses, in which people have been urged not to take part in election, as it could not bring any change in society.
Full report at:
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2013\04\28\story_28-4-2013_pg7_3
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Reign of terror in Karachi continues: Bloodied, but unbowed
April 28, 2013
KARACHI: A week marred by repeated attacks on election offices in Karachi ended on a bloody note as six people were killed and dozens injured in separate blasts targeting the MQM and PPP.
The first attack took place around 9:40 pm, when two explosive devices went off near an MQM office in Orangi Town, killing at least one man and injuring 23 others. The camp was located right behind the party’s unit 132 office in Qasba Colony. The office and election camp had been closed following the attack on the party’s roadside camp in Buffer Zone on Tuesday.
Several shops and the Al-Hamd Mosque are located adjacent to the office. An eyewitness said he saw two suspicious men on a motorcycle driving past the election camp. “Security around the office has been really low since the MQM decided to close shop,” he added. The unit office, seven shops and two houses were damaged in the first explosion.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/541551/reign-of-terror-continues-bloodied-but-unbowed/
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9 killed, 30 injured in blasts in northwest Pakistan
PTI | Apr 28, 2013
ISLAMABAD: Two bomb blasts outside campaign offices of candidates contesting Pakistan's general election killed nine persons and injured more than 30 in northwest Pakistan today.
The first blast occurred outside an election office in Kohat district of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province.
Police said a remote-controlled explosive device was used in the attack.
Six persons were killed and 21 injured by the explosion, which caused extensive damage to the office of Syed Noor Akbar, an independent candidate contesting polls to a parliamentary seat in Orakzai tribal region.
Police said Akbar is a member of the minority Shia sect and this could have been a motive for the attack.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/pakistan/9-killed-30-injured-in-blasts-in-northwest-Pakistan/articleshow/19766641.cms
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Sad' chapter in Sarabjit's story: Pakistani daily
IANS | Apr 28, 2013
ISLAMABAD: The "latest chapter" in the story of Sarabjit Singh, an Indian national on death row in Pakistan, who was brutally beaten by other prison inmates, "is a sad one", a leading Pakistani daily said on Sunday.
Sarabjit, 49, suffered critical head injuries in the assault by four to five prisoners with bricks and plates in Kot Lakhpat Jail in Lahore on Friday.
He has been on death row in Pakistan since 1990 after being convicted by Pakistani courts for bomb blasts in Lahore and Multan, which left 14 people dead.
Sarabjit's family claims he is innocent, and that he crossed over to Pakistan in August 1990 in an inebriated state, and was arrested there.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/pakistan/Sad-chapter-in-Sarabjits-story-Pakistani-daily/articleshow/19766448.cms
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People will not accept ‘danda-bardar Shariat’: MQM Chief
April 28, 2013
KARACHI: MQM Chief Altaf Hussain has said on Saturday that Taliban want to discourage people from participating in the election gatherings of Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and Awami National Party (ANP) but people of the country will not accept 'danda bardar shariat'. The MQM chief was addressing a public gathering in Nawabshah via a telephone from London In a telephonic address from London, while speaking to a public gathering in Nawabshah, Hussain said that Islam is a religion of peace and it prohibits forced implementation. The MQM will form the next government in Sindh, and attacks on party offices and election gatherings are a conspiracy to keep progressive forces out of the election process. He said that a smooth election campaign could only be witnessed in Punjab. Meanwhile, the MQM's Coordination Committee on Saturday categorically stated that the party will not boycott election despite conspiracies. In a telephonic conversation with the party chief, the Coordination committee members said that despite attacks on workers and leaders, morale of MQM workers was high and they would not surrender before terrorists.
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2013\04\28\story_28-4-2013_pg12_5
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Selective targeting of political parties is Taliban Shura’s decision: TTP spokesman
April 28, 2013
PESHAWAR: Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) spokesperson Eshsanullah Ehsan while talking to Dawn.com from an undisclosed location said on Sunday that selective targeting of the political parties and candidates was the decision and prerogative of the Taliban Shura.Replying to a query about sparing the Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf (PTI) , Jamiat-i-Ulema Islam- Fazal (JUI-F) , Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) and Pakistan Muslim league – Nawaz (PML-N) who were also contesting elections within the same secular system, to which Taliban are opposed to, he said:“Taliban shura had decided to target those secular political parties which were part of the previous coalition government and involved in the operation in Swat, Fata and other areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwah,”adding that “the organisation followed the instructions of the Taliban shura and that it was the shura that decided which political parties to target, where and when.
Full report at:
http://dawn.com/2013/04/28/selective-targeting-of-political-parties-is-taliban-shuras-decision-ttp-spokesman/
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Bomb kills five at Kohat election office: Officials
April 28, 2013
PESHAWAR: A bomb attack targeting an election candidate’s office in northwest Pakistan on Sunday killed at least five people and wounded 22, police said the latest violence ahead of polls next month.
The device exploded outside the office of an independent candidate in the garrison city of Kohat, which is adjacent to Pakistan’s restive tribal areas along the Afghan border.
“The IED was planted outside the election office. At least five people have been killed and 22 injured,” city police chief Dilawar Khan Bangash told AFP.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/541594/blast-near-election-candidates-office-kills-two-in-kohat/
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Pakistan allows family to see Sarabjit, restricts consular access
PTI | Apr 28, 2013
LAHORE/ISLAMABAD: The distraught family of a comatose Sarabjit Singh was on Sunday allowed to see him at the hospital where he is being treated after a brutal assault in a Pakistani jail.
A senior doctor of the state-run Jinnah Hospital told PTI that Sarabjit's sister, wife and two daughters were allowed to see him through a window from outside the intensive care unit as it was "not good for the patient as well as attendants to get close to each other".
Asked if Sarabjit's relatives could have been allowed to get close to him after wearing protective clothing and masks, the doctor said, "We cannot take any chances with regard to the health of our patients. Sarabjit Singh is not in a condition that a visitor can be allowed to sit by him."
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Pakistan-allows-family-to-see-Sarabjit-restricts-consular-access/articleshow/19768911.cms
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Chances of Sarabjit Singh’s survival slim, say Pak doctors
ANI | Apr 28, 2013
LAHORE: Indian convict Sarabjit Singh, who was injured in an attack on Friday in Pakistan's Kot Lakhpat jail, is said to be in a serious condition.
According to doctors, Singh's chances of survival are slim. He has been incubated and linked to the ventilator in the intensive care unit of Jinnah Hospital, reports The Dawn.
Singh suffered serious head injuries when two fellow inmates attacked him in the jail on Friday.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Chances-of-Sarabjit-Singhs-survival-slim-say-Pak-doctors/articleshow/19765120.cms
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Pakistan faces prospect of hung parliament
PTI | Apr 28, 2013
ISLAMABAD: The first general elections in Pakistan that will usher in a smooth democratic transfer of power in 66 years is likely to go down to the wire with no party expected to get a majority.
With less than two weeks to go for the landmark election to choose the 342-member National Assembly, two-time former premier Nawaz Sharif appears to have an edge over others and his group may emerge as the single largest party notwithstanding a late surge by cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan in heartland of Punjab.
All indications are that the country could be heading for another coalition government, analysts say.
Full report at:
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/pakistan/Pakistan-faces-prospect-of-hung-parliament/articleshow/19764777.cms
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Pakistan 'Robin Hood' aims to wrest election from rich
Pakistan, April 28, 2013
With a flick of the reins, Jamshed Dasti launched his run for Pakistan's parliament from the back of a donkey cart, cantering through the rutted streets of his home town to file his nomination papers as supporters erupted into cheers.
With the opening act in his campaign unfolding exactly as planned, Dasti beamed the beatific smile of a man who might look like an underdog, but who is sure he has the momentum to humble his wealthy rivals at next month's general elections.
His choice of transport was no accident: Dasti wants to persuade poor voters that Muzaffargarh, a farming district in Punjab province long ruled by a Pajero-driving, land-owning aristocracy, is about to change forever.
Full report at:
http://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/pakistan/Pakistan-Robin-Hood-aims-to-wrest-election-from-rich/Article1-1051685.aspx
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Africa
Nigerian senator says 228 killed in gunfight with Islamists
April 28, 2013
MAIDUGURI: A gun battle between security forces and Islamist insurgents in Nigeria a week ago killed 228 people, a local senator said on Saturday, putting the death toll six times higher than the government’s estimate.
A large number of civilian deaths will fuel accusations that the military acted heavy-handedly and failed to protect bystanders and might also increase pressure on the government to seek a negotiated settlement with the radical group Boko Haram.
There have been conflicting death tolls from the April 19 operation carried out by joint forces from Nigeria, Chad and Niger against Boko Haram insurgents in the remote north-eastern town of Baga. The Red Cross is investigating a report by locals that 187 people died, including many civilians, but defence spokesman Chris Olukolade said only 37 were killed. The military barred aid agencies from entering Baga for several days after the attack. The Red Cross and some other agencies have since been given access but none has issued a definitive death toll.
“I personally visited three graveyards in Baga and counted 228 graves where victims had been buried,” said Senator Maina Maaji Lawan, who represents the northern region of Borno state where the attack took place.
Full report at:
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2013\04\28\story_28-4-2013_pg7_10
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Gunmen surround Libyan ministry in protest at Qaddafi-era officials
28 April 2013
Gunmen surrounded Libya's foreign ministry on Sunday to push demands that officials who had worked for deposed leader Muammar Qaddafi's government be banned from senior positions in the new administration.
At least 20 pick-up trucks loaded with anti-aircraft guns blocked the roads while men armed with AK-47s and sniper rifles directed the traffic away from the building, witnesses told Reuters.
Foreign ministry employees were denied entry by the gunmen, an Al Arabiya correspondent reported.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/04/28/Gunmen-surround-Libyan-ministry-in-protest-at-Qaddafi-era-officials.html
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More aid needed to site of Nigeria bloodbath: Senator
'I have driven all over that place and the devastation is enormous', official says on recent clashes in Nigeria
28 Apr 2013
The population in the Nigeria town of Baga, site of the deadliest-ever episode in an Islamist insurgency, is in "terrible shock," with a woefully inadequate rescue mission unable to care for the thousands of victims, the area senator told AFP Saturday after visiting the town.
"I have driven all over that place and the devastation is enormous," said Senator Maina Lawan of the Borno North constituency in northeast Nigeria.
"The population are in terrible shock. You only need to see them and talk to them... No matter how strong-hearted you are, you will break down," the senator added.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/9/70275/World/International/More-aid-needed-to-site-of-Nigeria-bloodbath-Senat.aspx
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Arab World
'Sexist' Egyptian Info Minister causes more feminist outrage
27 April 2013
“Bahiya ya Masr,” or “Beautiful Egypt,” a group advocating women’s rights, is planning a sit-in on Sunday to protest the Egyptian Information Minister’s “sexist” comments towards two female journalists.
Salah Abdul Maksoud, angered many Egyptians after he told a female reporter to “come to my office and I will show you how,” as she mentioned the lack of freedom for expression.
Last Wednesday, during a press conference at the Information Ministry, the official repeated his infamous remark, when he told yet another female journalist from the private Al-Nahar TV station: “come to my office and I will tell you,” after she enquired about Egyptian TV content.
“Bahiya ya Masr” has planned a sit-in in front of Egypt’s Radio and TV Union (ERTU) Maspero at 4pm Cairo time, according to the groups Facebook page.
Riham Salim, one of the coordinators, said the campaign was a reaction to the minister’s derogatory comments.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/04/27/Egypt-Minister-sparks-backlash-for-sexist-remarks-towards-female-journalists-.html
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Egypt judge could be executed for encouraging foreign intervention: Salafist leader
Al-Watan Party's Yosri Hammad says the head of Egypt's Judges Club could face the death penalty 'for seeking foreign intervention in the country'
27 Apr 2013
The deputy head of the Salafist Al-Watan Party Yosri Hammad warned Saturday that Egypt's head of the Judges Club Ahmed El-Zend could face the death penalty over comments he made that were interpreted by some as an invitation for foreign intervention in the country.
“Is the law going to be applied on the one who invited Obama in a public speech to interfere in the internal issues of Egypt?” wondered Hammad, a rheumatologist, on his Facebook page, referring to statements made by El-Zend Monday.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/70248/Egypt/Politics-/Egypt-judge-could-be-executed-for-encouraging-fore.aspx
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Syrian army ordered to use chemical weapons, defected general tells Al Arabiya
28 April 2013
The Syrian government ordered the use chemical weapons against the Free Syrian Army (FSA) during select battles with Syrian regime forces, a defected general told Al Arabiya late Saturday.
A former army general from the chemical weapons branch, Zahir al-Sakit, said he was instructed to use chemical weapons during a regime battle with the FSA in the southwestern area of Hauran.
But instead, Sakit disobeyed the orders and swapped the chemicals with disinfectant water he called “Javel water.”
“I was given orders to execute the use of poisonous chemicals in caves and tunnels that are used by the Free Syrian Army, but I mixed all chemicals with water and used Javel water instead,” Sakit said.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/04/28/Syrian-army-ordered-to-use-chemical-weapons-says-defected-general-.html
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Iraq suspends 10 satellite TV channels for promoting ‘sectarianism’
28 April 2013
Ten satellite television channels in Iraq have been suspended by the government for promoting sectarianism and violence, the country’s media watchdog said Sunday.
Among the channels, Qatar-based news network Al Jazeera has been blocked along with Sharqiya, a leading channel in Iraq.
"We took a decision to suspend the license of some satellite channels that adopted language encouraging violence and sectarianism," Mujahid Abu al-Hail of the Communications and Media Commission told AFP news agency.
"It means stopping their work in Iraq and their activities, so they cannot cover events in Iraq or move around," Hail said.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/04/28/Iraq-suspends-10-satellite-TV-channels-for-promoting-sectarianism-.html
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Missile fired on Syria town kills civilians
28 April 2013
A ground-to-ground missile was fired on a town in northern Syrian at dawn on Sunday and killed at least four civilians, two of them children, a watchdog reported.
Anti-regime activists of the Aleppo Media Centre said the missile, which slammed into a residential area of Tal Rifaat, was a Scud, although this could not be independently verified.
The attack also killed two women, wounded several other people and destroyed many homes in the town in Aleppo province, the Britain-based Observatory said.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/04/28/Missile-fired-on-Syria-town-kills-4-civilians-.html
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Lebanese family releases eight Alawite Syrians
28 April 2013
Eight Alawite Syrians have been released on Saturday after they were kidnapped for almost a month by a Lebanese family, who said it was in retaliation to Syrian authorities detaining their son for over a year, Lebanon’s National News Agency reported.
The Syrians, who were kidnapped by Hussein Al-Ahmed in Al-Hisha town in Lebanon’s Wadi Khaled that borders Syria, were taken as ransom to press Syrian authorities to release Mohammed Hussein Al-Ahmed.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/04/28/Lebanese-family-releases-eight-Alawite-Syrians-.html
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Egypt's 'first' no-alcohol hotel opens in Hurghada
The hotel allocats a floor for women only; owner says he is promoting a new type of tourism
28 Apr 2013
The touristic city of Hurghada saw the opening of a no-alcohol resort on Saturday – dubbed by state media as the first of its kind in the Red Sea – allocating an entire floor for women only.
Resort owner Yasser Kamal told the state news agency that the decision is not influenced by one ideology or force, but is an attempt to promote a new tourism approach.
"Tourists have alcohol in their countries, and they must find other alternatives in Hurghada for the purpose of diversity," Yasser explained, adding that the hotel is open for all nationalities and both Muslim and Christian Egyptians.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/3/12/70292/Business/Economy/Egypts-first-noalcohol-hotel-opens-in-Hurghada--.aspx
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Egypt court upholds detention period for Mubarak
Hosni Mubarak loses his appeal against a 15-day detention period in relation to a case brought by the Illicit Gains Authority; other detention orders remain in place
28 Apr 2013
A Cairo court upheld Sunday a 15-day detention period for former president Hosni Mubarak, which he had appealed, in relation to a corruption case brought by the illicit Gains Authority.
The media was not allowed in court in Mubarak's appeal session Sunday on the order of the presiding judge.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/1/64/70277/Egypt/Politics-/Mubarak-appeal-session-to-be-held-in-secret.aspx
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Syria rejects US, UK chemical arms claims
April 28, 2013
DAMASCUS: Syria on Saturday dismissed as a “barefaced lie” US and British claims it may have used chemical weapons, as staunch ally Russia warned against using such fears to intervene militarily in the strife-torn country.
“First of all, I want to confirm that statements by the US secretary of state and British government are inconsistent with reality and a barefaced lie,” Syrian Information Minister Omran al-Zohbi said in an interview published on the Kremlin-funded Russia Today’s website.
“I want to stress one more time that Syria would never use it — not only because of its adherence to the international law and rules of leading war, but because of humanitarian and moral issues,” Zohbi said.
Full report at:
http://dawn.com/2013/04/28/syria-rejects-us-uk-chemical-arms-claims/
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Driver given 20 days to raise SR 150,000 in blood money
28 April 2013
The family of a Pakistani driver living in a slum on the outskirts of Jeddah is trying to help him avoid an indefinite prison term for failing to pay blood money for a two-year-old Egyptian boy he had run over with his car.
Aziz Mohammed Jaan works as a family driver for SR 1,200 per month and lives with his wife and five children, aged between one and 14. All are legal residents holding valid residency permits.
Full report at:
http://www.arabnews.com/news/449696
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Shoura member files libel suit against Dawa activist cleric
28 April 2013
RIYADH — Shoura Council member Issa Al-Gheith has filed a defamation suit against well-known Dawa activist Muhammad Al-Oraifi at the Riyadh District Court on Saturday.
Al-Gheith took legal action after Al-Oraifi re tweeted a poem that Al-Gheith considered defamatory and insulting. Al-Gheith gave Al-Oraifi 24 hours to apologize for the retweet but the latter did not respond at which point he went to court and filed the lawsuit on the basis of Article 5.3 of the Anti-Cyber Crime Law.
Full report at:
http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index.cfm?method=home.regcon&contentid=20130428163328
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Mideast Asia
Iran's clerics wary of Mashaei, the man who 'bewitched' Ahmadinejad
Michael Theodoulou
Apr 28, 2013
Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has added a new dimension to the race to elect his successor by promoting his closest and most controversial aide for the post - an enigmatic figure the Iranian president's enemies claim has "bewitched" him.
Esfandiar Rahim Mashaei, 52, has yet to announce he will run. But the increasing likelihood he will has added drama and intrigue to contest for the June 14 presidential election, even though the regime strictly limits voter choice.
Mr Mashaei, suave, tall and ambitious, once infuriated Iran's ruling hardliners by praising the United States as "one of the great nations of the world". On another occasion he proclaimed that Iranians are "friends of all people - even Israelis".
But his alleged sins in the eyes of Iran's traditional conservative leaders go deeper. He is accused of heading a "deviant current" in Mr Ahmadinejad's administration that promotes Iranian nationalism over clerical rule.
Full report at:
http://www.thenational.ae/news/world/middle-east/irans-clerics-wary-of-mashaei-the-man-who-bewitched-ahmadinejad#ixzz2Rl9IwBrm
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Israeli air strikes on Gaza target Islamic Jihad bases, says army
28 April 2013
Israeli air strikes hit Gaza towns on Sunday morning, targeting fighters from Palestinian group Islamic Jihad, the military said.
Two airstrikes hit the southern town of Khan Younis, targeting positions of the Al-Quds Brigade, the armed wing of Islamic Jihad. The third was near the southern town of Rafah, near the Egyptian border, Palestinian witnesses told AFP news agency.
The Israeli military said the attack was in response to a rocket that Palestinian fighters fired from the territory into southern Israel.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/middle-east/2013/04/28/Israeli-air-force-strikes-Islamic-jihad-in-Gaza.html
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Gunmen kill 5 soldiers in Yemen
28 April 2013
SANA’A – Suspected Al-Qaeda militants killed five Yemeni soldiers in an attack on Saturday on a checkpoint southeast of Sana’a, an official said, while two assailants were reportedly killed.
The attack targeted an army checkpoint in the district of Rada, where the interior ministry said late Friday it mounted security measures following intelligence about possible attacks by Al-Qaeda militants. Five soldiers were killed and several others were wounded in the attack, the local government official told AFP.
Full report at:
http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index.cfm?method=home.regcon&contentid=20130428163353
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Israel's apology to Turkey: Nothing comes for free?
Amid increased regional fluidity, Israel yearns to reestablish Turkish support in regional affairs; hence the rationale beyond its apology for the Mavi Marmara incident
28 Apr 2013
Last month, Israel finally presented a formal apology for the attack on the Mavi Marmara aid ship to Gaza that left nine Turkish activists dead in 2010.
The timing of the step raises questions, especially that Israel had incessantly repeated its refusal to apologise.
Three days ago, Ankara and Tel Aviv started talks on compensation for the families of victims, which reflects Israel's keenness on ending the three-year diplomatic spat with Turkey and paving the way to cooperation in other regional matters.
Full report at:
http://english.ahram.org.eg/NewsContent/2/8/70270/World/Region/Israels-apology-to-Turkey-Nothing-comes-for-free.aspx
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North America
‘I’m not the strapping Muslim socialist I used to be,’ banters Obama
28 April 2013
While he isn’t the “young Muslim socialist” he used to be, U.S. President Barack Obama can certainly perk up a crowd.
Obama drew laughs during his 2013 White House Correspondents' Dinner speech as took a swipe at conspiracists who have doubted his religion, while also making light of his greying hair.
"These days, I look in the mirror and I have to admit, I'm not the strapping young Muslim socialist that I used to be," Obama said. "Time passes. You get a little gray."
The president is a Christian who was born in Hawaii, but he included some material for so-called "birthers" who falsely assert he was born abroad.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/world/2013/04/28/-I-m-not-the-strapping-Muslim-socialist-I-used-to-be-banters-Obama.html
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U S vice president and the very real problem of ‘knock-off Jihadis’
Melinda Henneberger
April 25, 2013
CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Though you won’t see this on any plaque in the new George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum, there’s one baton our 43rd president passed not to our 44th but to Vice President Joe Biden, surely the most mis underestimated practitioner in American politics today.
Gaffes, Biden’s got ‘em – a natural bi-product of that thing we call ‘authenticity,’ really. But while we’re laughing it up, just as we did at the president now known as the Lucian Freud of Preston Hollow, we’re liable to undervalue the power of coming across like, yes, someone with whom you’d like to nurse a near-beer.
Full report at:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/she-the-people/wp/2013/04/25/our-authentic-vice-president-and-the-very-real-problem-of-knock-off-jihadis/
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Boston bombing suspects’ mother urged Tamerlan to ‘go to Palestine’
28 April 2013
In a tapped telephone conversation between one of the Boston bombing suspects and his mother, Russian authorities who secretly recorded the conversation in 2011 have disclosed how the suspect vaguely discussed jihad.
The mother of now-dead bombing suspect Tamerlan Tsarnaev discussed the possibility of Tamerlan going to 'Palestine,' but he told his mother he didn't speak the language there, according to the Associate Press, citing officials who reviewed the information Russia shared with the U.S.
Full report at:
http://english.alarabiya.net/en/News/world/2013/04/28/Boston-bombers-mother-urged-Tamerlan-to-go-to-Palestine-.html
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Older Boston bombing suspect spoke of 'jihad' with mother: Report
Reuters | Apr 28, 2013
WASHINGTON: The older suspect in the Boston Marathon bombings spoke to his mother about "jihad" in a 2011 phone call secretly recorded by Russian officials, CBS News reported on Saturday.
US authorities learned of the wiretapped discussion between TamerlanTsarnaev, one of two ethnic Chechen brothers suspected of carrying out the April 15 blasts in Boston, and ZubeidatTsarnaeva within the last few days, CBS said.
It provided no other details. CNN quoted US Attorney General Eric Holder as saying that the matter was "ongoing" and that he could not comment on it.
Jihad can refer to a holy war waged on behalf of Islam as a religious duty, or to a Muslim's personal struggle in devotion to the faith.
Tamerlan Tsarnaev, 26, died in a shootout with police in Watertown, Massachusetts, last week.
His brother, 19-year-old Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, was captured and has been charged with using a weapon of mass destruction and malicious destruction of property in connection with the Boston attack, which killed three people and wounded 264.
Tsarnaeva and the suspects' father told reporters on Thursday in Makhachkala, the capital of Russia's Dagestan region, that they believed their surviving son was innocent.
Attention has turned to whether US officials missed signs that Tamerlan Tsarnaev may have posed a security threat, including a warning from Russia that he might be an Islamic militant.
The FBI interviewed him in 2011 but did not find enough cause to continue an investigation.
Tamerlan Tsarnaev's name was listed on the US government's highly classified central database of people it views as potential threats, sources close to the bombing investigation have said.
Law enforcement authorities do not closely monitor the list, which includes about 500,000 people.
http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/us/Older-Boston-bombing-suspect-spoke-of-jihad-with-mother-Report/articleshow/19763037.cms
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South Asia
Maldives faces “significant” human rights challenges, despite “considerable progress”: Amnesty International
By Minivan News | April 27th, 2013
Amnesty International has announced that “significant human rights challenges” need to be addressed following a nine day visit to the Maldives, where it met with senior government figures and civil society organisations.
In a statement released Thursday (April 25), Amnesty International said that despite the country making “considerable progress” during the last few years in promoting and protecting civil rights, it retained concerns over issues like freedom of expression and wider accountability in the criminal justice system.
The findings were made as part of initial observations by Amnesty’s South Asia Director Polly Truscott and the NGO’s South Asia Researcher Abbas Faiz following a visit to the country between April 16 to April 24 this year.
Full report at:
http://minivannews.com/category/news-in-brief
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Gunmen release 9 Afghan mine clearers: officials
April 28, 2013
KANDAHAR: Gunmen have released nine mine clearers held hostage for four days in Afghanistan’s restive southern province of Kandahar, officials said on Saturday.
The men, all Afghans, were being driven back from a minefield on Monday when they were seized in Maiwand district, provincial spokesman Jawid Faisal told AFP.
“The nine kidnapped de-miners were released by their captors in Maiwand yesterday (Friday),” he said. “Their release were made possible with the help of local elders.”
Faisal blamed the Taliban for the kidnapping, though the insurgent group denied any involvement.
It was not confirmed who the de-miners worked for, but there are scores of clearance teams working to rid Afghanistan of landmines and other ordnance left over from more than three decades of war.
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2013\04\28\story_28-4-2013_pg7_11
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Nato plane crash in Afghanistan kills four
April 27, 2013
KABUL: A Nato plane crashed in Afghanistan on Saturday killing four service members, the coalition said, adding that early reports suggested the aircraft was not brought down by insurgents.
The plane crashed in the south of the country, according to a statement from Nato’s International Security Assistance Force.
“The cause of the crash is under investigation, however initial reporting indicates there was no enemy activity in the area at the time of the crash,” it said.
Most international soldiers in southern Afghanistan are from the United States, but the nationality of the dead was not released in line with coalition policy.
There was no immediate claim of responsibility from the Taliban, who earlier Saturday announced the start of their annual “spring offensive” vowing a nationwide series of attacks as Nato troops withdraw.
Full report at:
http://tribune.com.pk/story/541382/nato-plane-crash-in-afghanistan-kills-four/
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Roadside bomb kills three policemen in Afghanistan
April 28, 2013
KABUL: A remote-controlled roadside bomb killed three police officers in eastern Afghanistan on Sunday, an attack the Taliban claimed as the opening round of their spring offensive.
The bomb exploded in Ghazni province beneath a police convoy that was traveling to the district of Zana Khan to take part in a military operation against insurgents, Mohammad Ali Ahmadi, the province’s deputy governor, told The Associated Press.
He said the blast destroyed the vehicle carrying Col Mohammad Hussain, the deputy provincial police chief, killing him and two other officers.
Full report at:
http://dawn.com/2013/04/28/roadside-bomb-kills-three-policemen-in-afghanistan/
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Coalition governments incompatible with presidential system, contends former President Nasheed
By Ahmed Naish | April 27th, 2013
A coalition government with cabinet posts divided among parties is not compatible with the presidential system envisioned in the Maldivian constitution, former President Mohamed Nasheed reiterated during campaign rallies at Fuvahmulah and Addu City this weekend.
Addressing large crowds in the two southernmost atolls, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) presidential candidate accused mogul politicians of forming political parties only to offer its members “on a platter” to negotiate coalition agreements.
Full report at:
http://minivannews.com/politics/coalition-governments-incompatible-with-presidential-system-contends-former-president-nasheed-57024
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Hefajat attack on khatib, shrine condemned
April 28, 2013
Ahle Sunnat Wal Jama’at, an organisation based on Muslim Sunni ideology, yesterday declared five days of programmes to protest the attacks on the khatib of Jamiatul Falah Mosque in Chittagong city and a shrine in Hathazari by Hefajat-e Islam activists Friday.
The programmes include a rally at Hathazari Bus Stand on April 29, rallies in the upazilas of the country on May 1, human chains in all districts on May 2, khutba (religious sermons) on militancy at all the mosques around the country on May 3, and rally at Laldighi ground in Chittagong city on May 4.
Full report at:
http://www.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/hefajat-attack-on-khatib-shrine-condemned/
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Jamaat-Shibir in ‘last attempt’ to foil war crimes trial
April 28, 2013
Finance Minister AMA Muhith yesterday said Jamaat-Shibir men were in their “last attempt” in foiling the ongoing trial of war criminals and they had a political party with them.
Khaleda Zia is the ameer of the party, he said, asking BNP activists to give immediate thought into whether they wanted to remain with those involved in unleashing terror or with the country.
Muhith was addressing as chief guest a reception for 36 decorated freedom fighters of Sylhet region, organised by Janata Bank in a Shylhet city hotel.
Of the freedom fighters, 15 were alive, nine had embraced martyrdom during the Liberation War and 12 had passed away.
Full report at:
http://www.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/jamaat-shibir-in-last-attempt-to-foil-war-crimes-trial/
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The true meaning of need assessment
April 28, 2013
SHYKH SERAJ
Farmers are always faced with challenges. At the age of commercial farming, farmers are not receiving fair price for their produce. This was a specific problem for vegetable crops and some other crops during the last decade or so. During last three years, production cost was way more than the final market income, in cases of Aman and Boro rice production. With the intervention of government in reducing prices of non-urea in couple of occasions with intense insight, rice production has increased in Bangladesh. On the other hand, many farmers are leaning towards cultivating high-value crops, vegetables and fruits. Marginal farmers and also the entrepreneurs are getting involved with the cultivation of high-value crops. As a whole, farming sector has become enormous.
Full report at:
http://www.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/the-true-meaning-of-need-assessment/
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Southeast Asia
Bekasi Ahmadis remain in sealed mosque
April 28 2013
Twenty Ahmadiyah followers have missed work and school, remaining holed up in the Al-Misbah Mosque in Bekasi, east of Jakarta, since local officials sealed it off on April 4.
The security coordinator for the Ahmadiyah Indonesia Congregation, Deden Sudjana, said on Saturday that the Ahmadis were in good condition and would stay in the mosque until the city administration allowed the followers of the minority Muslim sect to practice their religion and remove the fence sealing the mosque.
However, officials appear unlikely to honor that request.
Deden said that Bekasi Mayor Rahmat Effendi invited the Bekasi Ahmadiyah congregation members to a dialogue on April 11, which he said ended in deadlock and was attended by representatives of the Bekasi branch of the Indonesia Ulema Council (MUI).
The administration, according to Deden, had agreed to open the mosque only if the Ahmadis removed Islam from their congregation’s name or allowed officials to arrange all services at the mosque, including deciding on its imams.
Full report at:
http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2013/04/28/bekasi-ahmadis-remain-sealed-mosque.html
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Najib happy about Indians’ rising Trust in BN
April 28, 2013
IJOK, April 28 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak said today the Indian community’s ‘nambikkai’ (trust) in him and the Barisan Nasional (BN) is on the rise and will pay off in the 13th General Election because every step taken to resolve their issues since he took over the nation’s leadership has shown positive results.
The BN chairman (picture) stressed that the government’s continuous political and socio-economic development agenda, particularly for the Indians, had clearly regained the confidence of the community.
Full report at:
http://www.themalaysianinsider.com/malaysia/article/najib-happy-about-indians-rising-nambikkai-in-bn/
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Chua Soi Lek chief blasts Pak Lah for being Islamic
April 28, 2013
MCA president Chua Soi Lek has resorted to lambasting his former boss Abdullah Badawi, under whose leadership Chua was once forced to resign from the government following his sex scandal.
Amid latest survey results pointing to opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim's popularity compared to Najib Razak for the prime minister post, Chua set out to make a point by taking a dip at Pak Lah's educational background.
He said Pak Lah was educated in Islamic Studies and as such did not know about economics [sic].
Full report at:
http://www.malaysia-chronicle.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=92861:mca-chief-blasts-pak-lah-for-being-islamic&Itemid=2
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Official says militants kill 2 Filipino soldiers
28 April 2013
MANILA — A Philippine military official says two army intelligence men have been killed by suspected Al-Qaeda-linked militants while on a surveillance mission in a volatile province.
Army brigade commander Col. Carlito Galvez says two suspected Abu Sayyaf militants on a motorcycle opened fire and killed the two soldiers Sunday in a village in Lamitan city on Basilan Island. The gunmen are believed to be members of an urban-based hit squad of the Abu Sayyaf.
The Philippine military has recently stepped up offensives against the Abu Sayyaf, which has threatened a major road project, attacked a power barge and tried to extort money from a construction company.
Galvez says the Abu Sayyaf has also given sanctuary in Basilan to a few foreign militants linked to the Southeast Asian militant network Jemaah Islamiyah
http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index.cfm?method=home.regcon&contentid=20130428163399
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RI dispatches peacekeeping mission to Sudan
Suherdjoko
April 27 2013
The Indonesian Army (TNI-AD) will dispatch a peacekeeping force to Darfur, Sudan to join with United Nations peacekeeping operations in that conflict area.
The Garuda XXXV-A contingent will join with United African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), a UN and African Union joint force, which will begin their one year mission in July.
“This is the first time Indonesia has been involved in UN peacekeeping operations using helicopters,” said TNI-AD chief Gen. Pramono Edhie Wibowo while inspecting the readiness of the mission’s personnel and weaponry, as well as helicopters, at a TNI-AD air base in Semarang, Central Java, on Saturday.
Full report at:
http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2013/04/27/ri-dispatches-peacekeeping-mission-sudan.html
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Indonesian militant convicted of beheading 3 Christian schoolgirls escapes while visiting wife
April 27, 2013
JAKARTA, Indonesia — A militant serving a 19-year prison sentence for beheading three Christian schoolgirls has escaped while visiting his sick wife and is still at large, Indonesian police said Friday.
National Police spokesman Brig. Gen. Boy Rafli Amar said Basri, 36, fled from his house in the Central Sulawesi town of Poso last week when a guard who escorted him from jail to the home left him unguarded for several hours.
Basri, who like many Indonesians uses a single name, was sentenced to 19 years in jail in 2007 for the beheadings and a series of attacks that terrorized Poso, where a Muslim-Christian conflict killed at least 1,000 people from 1998 to 2002.
Full report at:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/asia_pacific/indonesian-militant-convicted-of-beheading-3-christian-schoolgirls-escapes-while-visiting-wife/2013/04/26/1f881984-ae69-11e2-b240-9ef3a72c67cc_story.html
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Europe
Campaigners protest British drone strikes in Afghanistan
April 28, 2013
LONDON: Anti-war campaigners opposed to Britain’s use of armed drones in Afghanistan on Saturday marched on a military base that this week began hosting the aircraft’s human operators for the first time. Royal Air Force (RAF) pilots had been operating Reaper aircraft to support British troops fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan remotely from a base in Nevada in the United States.
But this week the operations were relocated to Britain for the first time, to RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire in eastern England, the Ministry of Defence said.
About 200 demonstrators marched to the base in Saturday, according to the BBC, to show their opposition to what campaigners said marked a “critical expansion in Britain’s drones programme”.
Full report at:
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2013\04\28\story_28-4-2013_pg7_12
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Frenchman has no regrets after Afghan hostage ordeal
April 28, 2013
KABUL: Charles Ballard left a career in finance to do aid work in Afghanistan. Back home in France after being held hostage for 71 days in a toilet, he says he has no regrets.
On January 27, the finance director in Kabul for French charity ACTED (the Agency for Technical Cooperation and Development) was kidnapped in broad daylight while being driven from home to the office.
A Japanese sedan intercepted Ballard’s four-wheel drive. Three masked men jumped out. “I didn’t have time to know what was happening. I already had automatic guns 30 centimetres from my face,” he said.
Full report at:
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2013\04\28\story_28-4-2013_pg14_6
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