Shehbaz requests Biden to release Dr Aafia on humanitarian grounds

Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has written a letter to US President Joe Biden requesting the release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, who is imprisoned in the United States.

In the letter, the Prime Minister stated that Dr. Aafia Siddiqui has been sentenced to 86 years in prison by a US District Court. As Prime Minister, he believes it is his responsibility to intervene in this matter.

He urged President Biden to use his constitutional authority to grant a pardon and order her release on humanitarian grounds.

Sharif further mentioned that Dr. Aafia Siddiqui's family, along with millions of Pakistanis, are awaiting this act of kindness.

He expressed awareness of the President's efforts to advocate for his citizens imprisoned abroad. Dr Aafia has been incarcerated in FMC Carswell since September 2010, serving 16 years in a US jail.

The Prime Minister noted that over the years, Pakistani officials have held consular meetings with Dr Aafia Siddiqui, during which serious concerns about her medical treatment have been raised.

There are significant worries regarding her deteriorating mental and physical health, and concerns have been expressed that she may take her own life. Dr. Aafia's case should be viewed with compassion.

Earlier, Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani neuroscientist serving an 86-year prison sentence in the US for assaulting US personnel, is at the center of a contentious extradition case.

The Islamabad High Court has recently ordered a detailed report on her extradition to US authorities, highlighting concerns about her health and the Pakistani government's role in her potential return.

During a court hearing, Siddiqui's sister, Fauzia, emphasised that the Pakistani government must act swiftly to facilitate her return, especially with a possible change in the US administration on the horizon.

Aafia's attorney, Mr. Smith, submitted an affidavit stating that in 2003, the Sindh government transferred Aafia and her children to the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), which then handed them over to the US.

This has raised questions about the ISI's authority and the evidence against her. The court has asked whether the ISI had any evidence related to Siddiqui and if it had the mandate to transfer her and her children.

Justice Sardar Ijaz Ishaq Khan expressed skepticism about separating inquiries related to the ISI's role and has instructed for comprehensive reports to be submitted.

The court also requested detailed responses from the Additional Attorney General and the Foreign Ministry. The outcome of this case could significantly impact Dr. Siddiqui's future and influence Pakistan-US relations.