6 September 2004

Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader

Terrorism strikes innocents and attacks the heart of democracy

Recent terrorist attacks in the Russian Federation, Bangladesh, Israel and elsewhere highlight not only evil crimes committed against innocents, but also represent direct attacks at the heart of democracies, Progressive MP Matt Robson said today.

"The use of random terror to undermine civil society and the chances of democratic participation is one of the oldest tools in the book of reactionary movements.

“Unfortunately as in Chechnya and Israel brutal repression by State agencies can fuel terrorism.

"Everyone who cherishes democracy and the benefits of the secular, democratic rule of law needs to rally together against the challenge posed by those who use violence to try and force their cause," the Progressive MP said.

Matt Robson noted that at least 12 people were killed, and 100 wounded, in a bomb attack recently on an opposition rally in Bangladesh's capital.

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed had been addressing a crowd and her Awami League Party said the blasts, possibly caused by grenades, were an assassination attempt on her.

"An attack on any democratic event is repulsive and wrong. Terrorist attacks leave everyone worse off and are a threat to everything that we cherish," Matt Robson said.

ENDS

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