The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a written order regarding the petition for the release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, sharply criticizing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for failing to contact foreign lawyers despite being instructed to do so 12 days ago.
Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, in the order reported by Express News, expressed the court’s frustration over the government’s lack of action. Despite three hearings focused on an amicus curiae brief, the government has remained “helpless and clueless,” failing to grasp the importance of the amicus brief or the consequences of filing it. The court noted that the government had been informed of the significance of the brief on August 20, yet only after 12 days did it realize the need to consult a U.S. attorney to understand the potential impact on Dr. Siddiqui’s release petition.
The court’s order highlighted that Mr. Smith, the U.S. attorney involved, has made significant strides in laying the groundwork for a compassionate release motion for Dr. Siddiqui. He believes his request could be successful, but the government’s indecision and fear were described as “an unfortunate display of cowardice.”
The IHC has now instructed the government to make a clear decision on the amicus brief by September 30 and to respond to Mr. Smith’s offer. Additionally, the Attorney General for Pakistan has been ordered to appear in person at the next hearing, along with the secretaries from the Ministries of Law, Defence, and the Cabinet. If any official is abroad, they are expected to attend the hearing online.
The court emphasized the importance of submitting a compassionate release petition to the U.S. president through Mr. Smith, stating that Pakistan’s support is crucial for the petition to be considered by U.S. authorities. Mr. Smith has indicated that he can submit the draft by the end of the week, and the federal government has seven days to respond. The next hearing is scheduled for September 13.
