IHC expresses dissatisfaction over FO efforts on Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s release from the US prison

ISLAMABAD, Dec 07 (SABAH): While expressing dissatisfaction over the efforts of Foreign Office for release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui from the US prison, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday directed it to raise this matter with the US Ambassador in Pakistan. The court has also summoned the report on next hearing of the case bearing the signatures of foreign minister and foreign secretary.

On a petition filed in connection with release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui incarcerated at US prison, her sister Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui appeared before the court. While giving remarks, Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan stated, “We want to see the reaction of US ambassador to Pakistan on this matter.” A report of Foreign Office (FO) on the matter was also presented in the court.

Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan further stated, “You did nothing after court’s order issued on October 17.” During dialogue with representative of FO, the court stated last time it had asked to convene the foreign secretary on this matter and continued, “Give a statement that we can do nothing and the case will be discharged. How you will explain ‘to do nothing.’”

FO representative told the court that mercy petition was still pending with the US President Office. Lawyer told the court that Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui had applied for the US visa but it has not been okayed as yet and furthered they were raising funds for the case and lawyer in the US. He further argued what are options available with them and what the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can do as they were ready to assist the court. On which the court on the behalf of FO stated that they were conveying that the mercy petition was pending whereas they cannot proceed ahead of this.

FO representative further informed of the court that they were also utilizing diplomatic forums in this regard. The court inquired, “Did you write to the United States Department of Justice to know about the physical and mental health of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui. Is there no permanent forum to sort out such issues? Can you raise this matter with the US ambassador to Pakistan? What he can do. Do they not even convey to you that they have received your letter?”

According to FO, US Justice Department didn’t convey to them that on which stage the mercy appeal was. The court while directing to submit a report signed by the minister of foreign affairs and foreign secretary, adjourned hearing of the case till January 20.