Pakistan to file clemency appeal for Dr Aafia Siddiqui’s release

The federal government of Pakistan has decided to submit a clemency appeal for the release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani citizen currently imprisoned in the United States, on humanitarian grounds.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to address the issue during his upcoming visit to the United Nations.

The Islamabad High Court, under Justice Sardar Ijaz Ishaq Khan, issued a written order on Saturday following a hearing of a petition filed by Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui, Aafia's sister, seeking her release. During the hearing, Pakistan’s Attorney General assured the court that the government had no objection to supporting the clemency appeal.

The Attorney General stated, "The government has no reason not to stand with the clemency appeal prepared by Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui’s legal team."

The court's order highlighted that the government will not only back the clemency appeal but also file a separate petition for Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s release. Additionally, the matter is set to be discussed with U.S. officials during the Prime Minister's visit to the UN.

The court also noted progress on a possible prisoner exchange agreement between Pakistan and the U.S., with a three-week period requested for further developments. The next hearing is scheduled for October 18, 2024.