Pro-Palestinian Protester Disrupts German Envoy’s Speech In Lahore’s Rights Conference
The disruption occurs when a student from the Asma Jahangir Legal Aid Cell, in collaboration with the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and Pakistan Bar Council, voiced strong objections to the ambassador’s presence at the rights conference in Lahore.
During his speech at the ‘Peoples’ Mandate: Safeguarding Civil Rights in South Asia’ conference held in Lahore, German Ambassador to Pakistan Alfred Grannas faced disruption and protest.
The disruption arose when a student from the Asma Jahangir Legal Aid Cell, in collaboration with the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) and Pakistan Bar Council, voiced strong objections to the ambassador’s presence. The student criticized Germany’s alleged complicity in violating Palestinians’ rights, contrasting it with the ambassador’s discussion on civil rights.
The audience’s response varied, with some applauding and others chanting slogans in solidarity with Palestine, such as “Free, Free Palestine” and “From the River to the Sea.”
Maintaining his composure, Ambassador Grannas responded by suggesting respectful dialogue, stating, “If you want to shout, you can go out and shout there.”
Following the incident, the Progressive Students Collective (PSC) condemned what they saw as the ambassador’s disregard for Palestinian rights. They also criticized the conference organizers for allegedly suppressing dissenting voices and providing a platform for advocates of Palestinian genocide. Reports of mistreatment of students by event organizers further fueled the controversy.
A spokesperson for the PSC remarked, “Our members have exposed the ambassador’s hypocrisy.”
Resuming his speech, Ambassador Grannas stressed the foundational importance of safeguarding human dignity in civil rights discussions, echoing principles outlined in Pakistan’s Constitution, particularly Article 14.
Grannas emphasized the crucial role of academic discussions, such as the conference, in shaping judicial interpretations and decisions, which contribute to the protection and advancement of basic human rights.
Drawing parallels between Germany and Pakistan, Grannas emphasized the rarity of explicit guarantees for the inviolability of human dignity worldwide.
Highlighting the judiciary’s crucial role, he commended Pakistan’s courts for their proactive interpretation of the law. He cited examples where their rulings positively impacted citizens’ lives, such as abolishing outdated practices like the two-finger testing in rape cases.
Concluding on an optimistic note, Ambassador Grannas expressed hope for constructive dialogue, recognizing the significance of gatherings like these in honoring the legacy of Asma Jahangir.
The conference, initiated in 2018 following Asma Jahangir’s passing, serves as a platform to commemorate her contributions by facilitating discussions on fundamental rights, judicial independence, empowerment of marginalized communities, freedom of expression, and regional solidarity.
