Pakistani flood victim sets self on fire in front of PM's home

Multan - An unemployed victim of the devastating floods in Pakistan and a father of four set himself on fire after being denied entry to Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani's private residence when he sought a job recommendation.

The story of 30-year-old Muhammad Akram is a tragic one. Akram lived in the Jeewan Wala Village, near Multan, with four children, a wife and two ageing parents. He lost his home in the horrid floods, which have killed thousands and displaced millions more. He now lives in the open without any shelter. Akram also lost his job in May as a factory watchman. For months he tried to find a job but could not. Finally, Akram took matters into his own hands and wanted to see Pakistan’s Prime Minister for a job recommendation. However, according to Agence-France Presse, when he attempted to visit Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani's private residence in Multan, the leader’s security forces denied Akram. After being denied entry, Akram poured petrol over his body and lit a match. The security forces pushed him back and then Akram proceeded set himself on fire. “We tried to save his life but he could not survive because his condition was serious,” said Zafar Niazi, Multan’s primary Nishtar hospital doctor. The Prime Minister was not in Multan during the time of this incident.