Writers should play their role for Dr. Aafia’s release: Appeal from Global Aafia Movement

The Chairperson of the Global Aafia Movement, Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui, today appealed to writers and journalists to assist in the release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui through their influential voices. This appeal comes at a time when new evidence of Dr. Aafia’s innocence will be presented in a U.S. court on Monday.

In an event titled “An Evening with Writers: In the Name of the Nation’s Daughter” held at the Karachi Press Club, Dr. Fouzia highlighted the reopening of Dr. Aafia’s case, shedding light on the recent confessions of those American soldiers who had previously testified against Aafia, now stating that their testimonies were incorrect.

A documentary was presented at the event, showcasing the painful journey of Dr. Aafia, from her kidnapping with her children in Pakistan to alleged mistreatment at the secret Bagram facility, and then her transfer to the United States, where she was sentenced to 86 years.

Dr. Fouzia urged the intellectual community to play a significant role in Aafia’s release, as Pakistan’s services for global peace are internationally recognized. She also appealed to Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Field Marshal General Asim Munir to take decisive steps in negotiations with the U.S. for Dr. Aafia’s freedom.

The event was attended by prominent intellectuals and journalists, as well as political figures like Muhammad Hussain Mehnati of Jamaat-e-Islami and Altaf Shakoor of Pasban Democratic Party. Participants unanimously expressed the need for diplomatic efforts for Dr. Aafia’s release, considering it an opportunity for the government to strengthen its commitment to justice and international cooperation.