By Ishaque Hashmi
KARACHI: On Independence Day, the Global Aafia Movement, led by noted neurophysician Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui, organized a significant rally at Five Stars Chowrangi in North Nazimabad to mark the occasion and advocate for the release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui. The rally, titled ‘Free Aafia- Independence Day,’ drew participation from a diverse group of organizations and political parties, including the Pasban Democratic Party (PDP), Muslim Students Organisation (MSO), Human Rights Council Pakistan Sindh chapter, Jamait Ulema e Islam Karachi chapter, and several others.
Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui addressed the gathering, emphasizing the immense value of independence and urging citizens to cherish and protect this fundamental right. She expressed concern over the state of the nation, highlighting that Pakistan is at a critical juncture and calling for unity to thwart any attempts to undermine the country.
Siddiqui poignantly noted that Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, referred to as the “daughter of the nation,” has spent 21 Independence Days in a US prison, despite being innocent. She questioned whether the country was established solely for the elite while common citizens face ongoing challenges. She criticized the disparity in privileges between the elite and the general populace, underscoring the sacrifices made for a more equitable society.
In her speech, Dr. Siddiqui stressed the importance of the coming months for efforts to secure Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s release. She called on the government to honor its constitutional obligations and court orders by intensifying efforts to bring Dr. Siddiqui back to Pakistan. The rally saw participants singing the national anthem and praying for the nation’s progress and prosperity, as well as for the early release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui. The event was marked by a strong display of solidarity and commitment to addressing what many attendees viewed as an urgent national issue.
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