Photo: Morning Star News
On November 9th, 2023, a follower of Jesus named Farhan Ul Qamar was killed in his family's home by a man who is well-known in the community for his hatred towards Christians and Jews. It is believed that the violence may have been instigated by a minor disagreement that took place the day before the attack. (For more details on the incident, see this report.)
In the months following the murder, Farhan's family faced repeated threats to drop all charges against the perpetrator, Muhammad Zubair. This Muslim man is a known repeated offender who has long evaded justice due to his family's influential status.
On March 27th, more than a year after Farhan's death, a judge in Pasrur, Punjab, found the accused guilty of murder. The conviction is considered a rare occurrence, since crimes against Christians are frequently neglected in Pakistan. Muhammad was sentenced with the death penalty, along with a fine that is equivalent to about $2,500 CAD. As the convicted man was being led from the court room, he showed no remorse. Rather, he hurled threats at Farhan's family, declaring that they would never be allowed to live in peace.
It is expected that Muhammad will appeal the sentence, and that the appeal process may take several years. The lawyer for Farhan's family, Lazar Allah Rakha, anticipates that pressure will be put on the victim's family to pardon the accused. In light of these concerns, he is calling for the police to maintain added security measures.
Following the court ruling, some human rights advocates described this case as a significant milestone in the fight for justice on behalf of persecuted Christians in Pakistan. However, followers of Jesus throughout the country continue to suffer violence and injustices for their faith. Previously published reports on the persecution of Christians in Pakistan may be reviewed at our country profile.
- Praise God for the legal advocacy that’s taken place in Farhan's case.
- In addition to ministering great peace and comfort to each of these grieving family members, may the Lord shelter them from harm and any further harassment.
- Pray that God will dramatically transform the heart and mind of Muhammad Zubair, convicting him of his need for salvation and leading him to faith to Jesus Christ.
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