Canada Condemns Assassination of Tunisian Politician

OTTAWA, Canada, July 26, 2013/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today issued the following statement:

“I was shocked to learn of the assassination today of Mohamed Brahmi, a leading figure in Tunisia's national opposition and an outspoken critic of extremist violence.

“Canada condemns violent extremism in the strongest possible terms.

“Opposition voices and a plurality of opinions are the bedrock of any democracy. Tragically, this is the second killing of an opposition politician this year, following the assassination of Chokri Belaid in February.

“We remain committed to supporting Tunisia in its democratic transition and appeal to all parties in Tunisia to refrain from violence and engage in constructive political dialogue.

“On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to express my deepest sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of Mr. Brahmi.

“We urge the Government of Tunisia to take swift action to bring the perpetrators of this unforgivable, murderous act to justice.”