Amir Khan offers help in fighting terror, rebuilding Peshawar school

Published December 24, 2014
British boxer Amir Khan holds his WBC title belt prior to a press conference in Islamabad on December 24, 2014. – AFP
British boxer Amir Khan holds his WBC title belt prior to a press conference in Islamabad on December 24, 2014. – AFP
British boxer Amir Khan holds his WBC title belt and shorts prior to a press conference in Islamabad on December 24, 2014. – AFP
British boxer Amir Khan holds his WBC title belt and shorts prior to a press conference in Islamabad on December 24, 2014. – AFP

ISLAMABAD: British boxer Amir Khan Wednesday promised help to rebuild an army-run school in Peshawar where 150 people were massacred by the Taliban in Pakistan’s deadliest ever terror attack.

Khan, who has Pakistani roots, arrived in Islamabad to show solidarity with the victims and their families.

Also read: Boxer Amir Khan to visit Pakistan after Taliban school massacre

“What has taken place in Peshawar is absolutely horrific and sickening,” the WBC welterweight world champion told a news conference in Islamabad.

“After recently becoming a father myself, I can't imagine how the families of these innocent children are feeling.”

A team of heavily armed Pakistani Taliban gunmen stormed the school week, slaughtering 150 people including 134 children. The attack has shocked the world and 28-year-old Khan pledged to do what he could to help.

“I am willing to offer my help to the government of Pakistan and all the stakeholders, any help from my side, to rebuild the damaged school and to help the fight against terrorism,” he said.

He said he would be setting up Amir Khan academies for young people in selected Pakistani cities. Through his foundation, he would support Pakistani children in the health and education sectors.

Last week Khan said he plans to auction a $45,000 pair of shorts to raise money to help rebuild the school.

Read: Amir Khan donates £30,000 shorts to Peshawar school

Khan wore the flamboyant shorts, which included a waistband made from 24-carat gold threading, during his successful WBC title defence against Devon Alexander in Las Vegas this month.

Opinion

Editorial

Kurram atrocity
Updated 22 Nov, 2024

Kurram atrocity

It would be a monumental mistake for the state to continue ignoring the violence in Kurram.
Persistent grip
22 Nov, 2024

Persistent grip

An audit of polio funds at federal and provincial levels is sorely needed, with obstacles hindering eradication efforts targeted.
Green transport
22 Nov, 2024

Green transport

THE government has taken a commendable step by announcing a New Energy Vehicle policy aiming to ensure that by 2030,...
Military option
Updated 21 Nov, 2024

Military option

While restoring peace is essential, addressing Balochistan’s socioeconomic deprivation is equally important.
HIV/AIDS disaster
21 Nov, 2024

HIV/AIDS disaster

A TORTUROUS sense of déjà vu is attached to the latest health fiasco at Multan’s Nishtar Hospital. The largest...
Dubious pardon
21 Nov, 2024

Dubious pardon

IT is disturbing how a crime as grave as custodial death has culminated in an out-of-court ‘settlement’. The...