When university lecturer Junaid Hafeez was accused of blasphemy in Pakistan, lawyer Rashid Rehman stepped in. Known for representing the underrepresented, including those accused of blasphemy, he was a natural fit for the case. In May 2014, however, his defense of Junaid was cut short: two intruders entered his office under the pretense that they were looking for legal representation, and they shot and killed him. Two of his colleagues, Nadeem Parwaz and Muhammad Afzal, were also shot and injured.

“He was a dedicated activist from the very beginning. All his life he was helping the downtrodden. He was fearless and never gave any time to the threats. He said he would live for the struggle and die for the struggle.” - Zaman Khan, Human Rights Commission of Pakistan

Prior to the murder, one of the lawyers for the prosecution had apparently threatened Rashid with harm. Rashid notified police and requested protection, but his contact went unanswered. After the murder, leaflets were reportedly distributed throughout the city of Multan where he practiced, proclaiming his death was an act of justice and warning of similar fates for any lawyers who would take on the cases of blasphemers in the future.

“Every time someone without means approached him for help, he would take his case without considering how mighty the opponent could be. He was also very fond of reading, but he spent most of his time helping the needy.” - Allah Daad, colleague of Rashid Rehman

Rashid left behind a nephew and niece, both in their mid-twenties, who said he was like a father to them.