Aasia Bibi's lawyer concerned over his family's security in Pakistan

Saiful Malook expresses dismay at the inadequate security provided to his family by the authorities

ISLAMABAD: Fearing for the safety of his kin, Aasia Bibi’s counsel Saiful Malook has approached the United Nations to ensure his family’s security.

Aasia Bibi had been acquitted by the Supreme Court off blasphemy charges on October 31. The decision sparked countrywide demonstrations with protesters, led by Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP), threatening the state, army and judiciary.

Aasia Bibi's lawyer says wants to stay in Netherlands

The violent protests forced Malook to board a plane to the Netherlands on November 3. He told The Express Tribune about threats from sections of lawyers and it is difficult for him to practice in the prevailing situation.

“In the current scenario, it's not possible for me to live in Pakistan,” the 62-year-old told AFP. “I need to stay alive as I still have to fight the legal battle for Aasia Bibi.”

Malook is currently in The Hague and has hinted on seeking political asylum.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, Malook expressed concerns about his family’s safety in Pakistan. He said he had written to the UN office in Pakistan seeking security for his family. Malook was dismayed at the inadequate security provided to his family by the authorities.



The senior lawyer revealed an excerpt from his speech at the European Parliament wherein he credited Justice Asif Saeed Khosa for the decision. In his address, Malook dismissed chances of a review petition being entertained in the matter.

Malook is scheduled to meet EU Parliament President Antonio Tajani later today.

In an earlier conversation with The Express Tribune, Malook had clarified that he would return to Pakistan to represent Aasia at hearing of the review petition if the army provided him security.