Islamabad, Amidst a backdrop of significant national challenges, Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui, leader of the Aafia Movement and a renowned neurophysician, has declared the judiciary as the country’s last hope. This statement was made in light of the recent cancellation of a court hearing for Dr. Aafia Siddiqui due to the illness of Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaque Khan of the Islamabad High Court (IHC). Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui expressed her disappointment over the delay and extended her wishes for the judge’s swift recovery. She highlighted the critical human rights aspects of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s case and called upon the nation to pray for both the country and Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, especially with the holy month of Ramadan approaching.
According to Aafia Movement, the sentiments were echoed during a gathering in Islamabad on Sunday, where Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan praised the positive role of the court in Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s case. With the formation of a new parliament on the horizon, Senator Khan urged it to prioritize the early release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui. He also acknowledged the contributions of Clive Stafford Smith, Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s American lawyer, describing his efforts in the case as helpful and crucial. Senator Khan appealed to the Pakistani nation to rally behind the cause of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s release.
Clive Stafford Smith, representing Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, shared a message of hope during his visit to Islamabad. He encouraged public support and highlighted the importance of the Pakistani government’s role in securing Dr. Siddiqui’s release from a U.S. prison. The collective voices of Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui, Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan, and Clive Stafford Smith underscore a unified call for justice and support for Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, reflecting broader concerns about human rights and judicial efficacy in Pakistan.