H.E. Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan strongly condemned the suicide attack at the mourning ceremony of Late Mawlawi Abdullah Fayaz and called it an act of cowardice by the enemies of Islam and the enemies of the peace of Afghan people.

At least 20 mourners were martyred and many others were injured by a suicide bomber at a gathering to mourn the death Mawlawi Abdullah Fayaz at Abdul Rab Akhund Mosque in Kandahar City this morning.

The President called the attack on a mosque an act of non-muslim and defeated terrorists. H.E. added: Mosque is a Home of God and place of worship; those attacking it are unbelievers and despicable enemies of Islam and Afghanistan.

President Karzai said: the Muslim people of Afghanistan recognize the culprits of this un-Islamic act and know that it was carried out by the enemies of Afghanistan.

“Afghanistan is passing through a sensitive period in its history, and with the parliamentary elections getting closer, the enemies attempt to sabotage the process.” said the President.

Mr. President called on the people to be vigilant to not allow foreigners to conspire against their national security.

Mr. President has established a commission consisting of representatives of the Ministry of Interior Affairs and National Defense, and National Security Directorate to carefully investigate this terrorist act and take all necessary and appropriate actions.

He offers his heartfelt condolences to the relatives and friends of the martyred and prays for the speedy recovery of the injured.