ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — The governor of Punjab province in western Pakistan was killed in a shootout in an upscale Islamabad neighborhood, local news media reported Tuesday.
The governor, Salman Taseer, was fired on at close range in Kohsar Market, an upscale market that is frequently visited by foreigners, politicians and elite of the city, according to local news media outlets.
Initial reports indicate that a police official opened fire on Mr. Taseer as he was getting into his car in what appeared to be a targeted assassination.
Mr. Taseer was a close aide of President Asif Ali Zardari and known for his progressive views.
Mr. Taseer had recently entered into controversy after he opposed the controversial blasphemy laws of the country. Religious parties are strongly opposed to any changes in the law. Effigies of Mr. Taseer were burnt in countrywide protests last week
