KARACHI: Dr. Fozia Siddiqui, Chairperson of the Aafia Movement, has stated that ensuring the release of the “Daughter of the Nation” is a collective responsibility of the entire country. She was addressing the Aafia Movement Volunteer Convention and Award Ceremony held in Karachi.
The Pledge of Volunteers
During the event, hundreds of volunteers signed a pledge with their blood, vowing to continue the struggle until Dr. Aafia Siddiqui returns home. A consensus resolution was passed, and shields were distributed among dedicated supporters. Notably, three special VIP passes were issued for an exclusive meeting with Dr. Aafia upon her eventual return to Pakistan.
An Appeal to the State
Dr. Fozia emphasized that her sister is imprisoned for a crime she never committed. She stated that the time has come for the Pakistani government and the establishment to bring Aafia back. She added that we stand at a critical turning point and urged those creating hurdles to stop, noting that her innocence is proven yet she remains behind bars.
Global Legal Perspective
Addressing the convention via video link, Dr. Aafia’s American lawyer, Clive Stafford Smith, described the case as the most horrific example of torture he has witnessed in his 25-year career. He labeled Dr. Aafia as the most oppressed woman in the world and expressed optimism that 2026 will be the year of her freedom. He reminded the audience that she was abducted alongside her children and subjected to immense physical and mental trauma.
Honoring the Supporters
The convention paid tribute to the unsung heroes who have tirelessly advocated for the cause. Awards and shields were presented to several prominent figures, including Former Governor Sindh Mohammad Zubair, Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Khan (Chairman Pakistan Rights Movement), Senator Talha Mahmood, Haleem Adil Sheikh, Abdul Hakim Quaid, and others. The event concluded with a renewed commitment from both physical attendees and a large number of online supporters to intensify the campaign for Dr. Aafia’s repatriation.
