Islamabad: The Aafia Movement, an advocacy group campaigning for the release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, has expressed concerns over a recent decision by the Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court to change the presiding judge in a pivotal case. This decision, according to the movement, threatens to derail a decade-long pursuit of justice.
The group voiced its apprehension in a press release, highlighting the timing of the judicial change as suspicious and suggesting that it supports a narrative of justice being manipulated to favor the elite. The Aafia Movement argues that the courts are neglecting their duty to protect innocent citizens, as evidenced by the unexpected replacement of a judge who had recently issued a contempt order advancing the case.
Citing Islamic principles of justice, the movement urged the Chief Justice to reconsider the decision and allow Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaaq Khan to continue presiding over the case until its resolution. The movement’s counsel, Imran Shafiq, has been instructed to challenge the administrative decision during the upcoming hearing, questioning its legality and purpose.
The movement also plans to seek an adjournment of Monday’s hearing and has expressed intentions to escalate the matter to the Supreme Court if necessary. They argue that any orders from the newly appointed judge, Justice Inaam, would be invalid due to the alleged improper transfer of jurisdiction.
In a message of solidarity, the Aafia Movement called upon its supporters to remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice, emphasizing that their struggle is observed by a higher power. They appealed to their followers to continue advocating for Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s release, asserting that justice will ultimately prevail.