The Kurdistan Observer
Feb 25, 2001

In an emotionally charged funeral ceremony for the assassinated ranking KDP member,
Franso Hariri, the KDP leader and President of the Kurdish Regional Government, Mr.
Masoud Barzani, gave a moving speech describing the great loss of Hariri to the KDP and
the Kurdish movement.  The following are some excerpts from his speech.

"Two days ago we lost our dearest friend, the patriot and warrior, Franso Hariri. From the
day I got to know the martyr in 1963, I did not see him lacking faith or confidence when we
were confronted with extreme and difficult situations. Indeed, his opponents were aware of
his convictions and loyalty. It is true that people who murdered Hariri have inflicted a heavy
loss on the KDP and the Kurdish liberation movement.  It is also true that they selected a
valuable target and succeeded in their selection.  However, by their action they have chosen
a dark fate for themselves."

"Our brother, Hariri, is not the first to give his life for our homeland and nor will he be the
last. Those who liberate a homeland must be willing to sacrifice. Those who protect the
victory must also be willing to sacrifice.  The KDP has granted enormous sacrifices and has
offered thousands of martyrs to free Kurdistan."

" Those who accept a responsibility must be ready to live up to it.  The KDP has always
been ready for that challenge."

"Every KDP member, like Hariri, who believes in KDP principles must face the fact that he
may be a target of enemy attacks.

Without a doubt, Hariri's assassination at this critical time is aimed to undermine the new
and improved opportunities for a lasting peace in Kurdistan."

"I take this opportunity to ask all allied parties to use Hariri's assassination to solidify
brotherhood, peace and cooperation among themselves."

"Investigation must start and those responsible for this crime must be held accountable."

"Be assured that the enemy will only reap frustration, dishonor and defeat."

At the end of his speech, Mr. Barzani offered condolences to Mr. Hariri's family and friends,
and to the KDP and the Kurdish people as a whole for this great loss.
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The Kurdistan Observer
www.kurdistanobserver.com