Islamabad, The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has taken a significant step by appointing two amici curiae, Zainab Janjua and Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, to provide expert legal assistance in the case of Dr Aafia Siddiqui. This decision underscores the court’s commitment to facilitating communication between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and relevant United States entities, including the American lawyer representing Dr. Siddiqui, Clive Stafford Smith.
According to Aafia Movement, the appointment occurred during a hearing presided over by Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaque Khan, following a constitutional petition filed by Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui. The court had previously requested MoFA to identify prominent Pakistani lawyers in the USA to aid in Dr. Siddiqui’s case. However, the Additional Secretary (America) at MoFA informed the court of the lack of a reliable record of such individuals, complicating the process of seeking legal assistance.
The court’s decision to involve amici curiae aims to overcome these challenges, reflecting concerns over MoFA’s limited oversight of Pakistani legal professionals in the US and the need for structured legal dialogue regarding Dr. Siddiqui’s situation. This move is part of a broader effort to address Dr. Siddiqui’s prolonged detention and advocate for her rights on an international level.
Outside the court, former Senator and Jamaat-e-Islami leader Mushtaq Ahmed Khan expressed optimism about the potential for justice in Dr. Siddiqui’s case. Highlighting ongoing efforts across various platforms, including the Pakistani Senate and media, Khan emphasized the importance of both legal and political strategies to facilitate Dr. Siddiqui’s return. He also stressed the need to improve Dr. Siddiqui’s detention conditions and called for public support to secure her early release.
This development indicates a concerted effort by Pakistani authorities and civil society to advocate for Dr. Siddiqui, whose case has attracted international attention and calls for humanitarian consideration.