The Islamabad High Court has been informed that former US President Joe Biden has rejected the clemency appeal of Dr. Afia Siddiqui, a Pakistani neuroscientist currently imprisoned in the United States. The court held a hearing on her plea for release and repatriation to Pakistan, presided over by Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan. Dr. Siddiqui’s sister, Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui, and her American lawyer, Clive Smith, appeared before the court via video link.
During the hearing, the court was informed that the United States has refused to engage in a prisoner exchange agreement with Pakistan. Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan expressed frustration, stating, “America is showing us our place. The former US president pardoned his own son but did not release our prisoner.” This remark referenced Biden’s decision to grant clemency to his son and several other prisoners during the final days of his presidency, while Dr. Siddiqui’s appeal for presidential pardon was denied.
Dr. Afia Siddiqui, who has been incarcerated in the US since 2008, had appealed to Biden for clemency, but her request was turned down. The case has become a contentious issue between Pakistan and the United States, with tensions persisting over her continued detention.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs submitted a report to the court detailing the overseas visits of the Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister. Additionally, responses were provided regarding the Pakistani ambassador’s failure to attend meetings related to Dr. Siddiqui in the US.
The Islamabad High Court adjourned the hearing for two weeks, leaving the matter unresolved. Dr. Siddiqui’s case remains a significant point of contention between the two nations, with Pakistan continuing to push for her release and repatriation. The issue underscores the strained diplomatic relations between Islamabad and Washington, as both countries navigate this sensitive and high-profile matter.
