This weekend’s rioting in Pakistan illustrates the political energy of hardline Islamists in that nation. Still, the government isn’t about to fall into the hands of fanatics.

Those violently taking to the streets are motivated by government efforts to temper Pakistan’s aggressive anti-blasphemy laws. Specifically, the protesters are infuriated by a short-lived alteration to Pakistan’s electoral oath. While the alteration was canceled after the protesters raised their concerns, they claim the minister responsible has blasphemed against God and must resign.