Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has made a direct appeal to U.S. President Joe Biden, seeking the pardon and release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani national serving an 86-year sentence in the U.S. for allegedly attacking American personnel in Afghanistan.
In a letter dated October 13, PM Shehbaz voiced his concern for Dr. Siddiqui’s deteriorating physical and mental health, noting that she is now 52 years old and has spent 16 years in U.S. custody. He emphasized the serious concerns raised by various Pakistani officials who have visited Dr. Siddiqui, some fearing for her life due to her treatment in prison.
The prime minister underlined his duty to ensure the welfare of Pakistani citizens, urging Biden to exercise a similar responsibility towards his own people. He praised Biden’s advocacy for U.S. citizens detained abroad, expressing hope that the president would show similar compassion in Dr. Siddiqui’s case.
Shehbaz urged Biden to release Dr. Aafia Siddiqui on humanitarian grounds, expressing confidence in the warmth and concern Biden has shown for the people of Pakistan in the past. He called on the U.S. president to use his constitutional authority to grant clemency.
Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s lawyer, Imran Shafiq, confirmed progress in efforts to secure her release. After years of work, the Islamabad High Court approved a petition requesting Dr. Siddiqui’s release. Shafiq stated that clemency petitions are typically considered by U.S. presidents towards the end of their terms, aligning with the prime minister’s letter to Biden.
He further disclosed that Clive Stafford Smith has submitted an application, supported by detailed evidence, and that the court has instructed the Pakistani government to fully assist in securing Dr. Siddiqui’s release.
