ISLAMABAD: The Government of Pakistan has formally appealed to the U.S. President for clemency for Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, currently serving a sentence in the United States, seeking her release and return to Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif personally addressed the letter to President Joe Biden, urging him to grant Dr. Siddiqui a pardon. This crucial development was revealed by Additional Attorney General Munawar Iqbal Duggal during a hearing at the Islamabad High Court.
The case, filed by Dr. Aafia’s sister, Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui, was heard by Justice Sardar Ijaz Ishaq Khan. Dr. Fouzia had long been advocating for her sister’s return, and this letter marks a significant step in that direction.
Advocate Imran Shafiq, representing Dr. Fouzia, described this move as a substantial breakthrough. Speaking to the media, Shafiq said, “After two years of persistent efforts, the Prime Minister has formally requested the U.S. President to release Dr. Aafia. This was a major demand, and the government has acted on it.”
The Islamabad High Court had previously directed the government to fully support efforts to bring Dr. Aafia back. It also recommended that a high-level delegation be sent to the U.S. to advance her case.
This latest initiative by the government has been met with hope by Dr. Aafia’s legal team and family, who are optimistic about a positive resolution.
