When was the last political assassination? This question often arises in discussions about the dark side of political power and the fragility of human life. Political assassinations have historically been a tool used by various factions to eliminate political opponents, secure power, or send a message of fear and control. Understanding the most recent instance of such an event can provide insights into the current political climate and the ongoing struggle for power across the globe.
The last political assassination that garnered significant international attention occurred in 2018 when Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi was killed inside the Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul, Turkey. Khashoggi, a vocal critic of the Saudi government, had fled the country after being detained and tortured in 2017. His murder shocked the world and led to a global outcry for accountability.
The assassination of Khashoggi was a tragic reminder of the risks faced by journalists and activists who challenge the status quo. It also highlighted the complex web of power dynamics at play in the Middle East, where political assassinations have been a frequent occurrence. While the assassination of Khashoggi was not the first political assassination in recent years, it stands out as a particularly brazen and internationally condemned act.
Looking back at the previous decade, there have been several other notable political assassinations. In 2015, the assassination of Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov near the Kremlin in Moscow marked a dark moment in Russian politics. Nemtsov had been a vocal critic of President Vladimir Putin and had called for fair elections and an end to the conflict in Ukraine.
In 2016, the assassination of Lebanon’s former Prime Minister, Saad Hariri, sent shockwaves through the country. Hariri resigned from his position in a surprise announcement that was later deemed a political assassination attempt. The incident highlighted the deepening political crisis in Lebanon and the country’s struggle to maintain stability amidst regional tensions.
These examples demonstrate that political assassinations continue to be a tool used by various actors in their quest for power. The frequency and severity of such events can be attributed to a variety of factors, including political instability, authoritarian regimes, and the proliferation of armed groups.
In conclusion, the last political assassination, that of Jamal Khashoggi, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who challenge the status quo. It is crucial for the international community to remain vigilant and hold accountable those responsible for such heinous acts. As long as political assassinations remain a tool in the hands of power-hungry individuals and regimes, the question of when the last political assassination occurred will continue to resonate with the global audience.
