Fort Worth: With only 24 hours remaining in President Joe Biden’s term, supporters of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui are anxiously awaiting a decision on her clemency request. The anticipation follows a personal appeal from Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, which has yet to receive a presidential response.

According to a statement by Aafia Movement, the pressing hope for clemency comes after years of advocacy and a recent visit to FMC Carswell in Fort Worth, where Dr. Siddiqui is incarcerated. The prison has faced scrutiny over alleged abuses, and twelve staff members have been convicted of rape, highlighting the challenges faced by inmates like Dr. Siddiqui.

Visitation experiences shared by advocates reveal systemic issues, including mismanagement of visitation schedules. Despite these hurdles, Dr. Siddiqui reportedly maintains a positive outlook during visits, though leaving the facility is described as the most difficult part for her supporters.

As the hours dwindle, advocates argue that granting clemency could serve as a conciliatory gesture to Muslim communities, especially following controversial political stances. Nonetheless, there is concern that political caution may prevail, leaving the decision to the incoming administration.

Support for Dr. Siddiqui’s release has gained significant momentum, with 1.6 million signatures on a petition and widespread engagement on social media. Local demonstrations and appeals from Pakistani-Americans to U.S. lawmakers underscore the global interest in her case.

Regardless of the outcome in the final hours of Biden’s presidency, advocates vow to continue their efforts for justice, with contingency plans in place to sustain their campaign.