President General Pervez Musharraf on Wednesday called for eradication of feudalism and tribalism to control violence against women in the country. âWe have to eliminate tribalism and feudalism through education and enlightenment,â he said, declaring them root causes of violence against women. The president, who himself enjoys the support of tribal and feudal lords of the ruling coalition, was speaking at the Regional Conference on Violence Against Women.He also lashed out at individuals and non-government organisations which âdemonisedâ Pakistan internationally on the same issue, explaining that violence against women was a universal menace. He said the government would make laws to curb crimes against women, but a moral commitment from law enforcement agencies and the judiciary was required to implement the laws. âHow one could expect justice from law enforcers of a feudal mindset in violence cases,â he said. âThis is the fight to change hearts and minds of the people. To emancipate and enlighten them.â
The president expressed his disappointment with individuals and organisations who usually tried to project Pakistan as a country where violence against women was commonplace. âMay God give them wisdom,â he went on to say. He said he would support NGOs highlighting women-related violence in Pakistan. âBut if they raise the issue only to malign Pakistanâs image, then I will oppose them with all my power and will,â he declared.