Court sets Sept 30 deadline, says MoFA fails to contact foreign lawyers 12 days after being instructed to do so
ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has issued a stern written order concerning the petition for Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s release, criticizing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for its failure to engage with foreign legal counsel despite being given a 12-day deadline.
The order, penned by Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan, highlighted the government’s continued inaction, describing it as “helpless and clueless” in the face of the court’s directives. The court expressed frustration over the government’s apparent indecision and lack of urgency, criticizing its handling of the amicus curiae brief which was intended to support Siddiqui’s release petition.
The ruling underscored that the government had been made aware of the amicus brief’s significance on August 20. Yet, after a delay of 12 days, the authorities acknowledged the need to consult a US attorney to fully comprehend the ramifications of supporting the petition. The court deemed this delay an “unfortunate display of cowardice” and expressed concern that if the government were granted further authority, it would only result in more slow and apathetic decisions.
The IHC has instructed the government to make a definitive decision regarding the amicus brief by September 30 and to respond to Mr. Smith’s offer. The Attorney General for Pakistan, along with the secretaries from the Ministries of Law, Defence, and the Cabinet, has been ordered to attend the next hearing in person. In case any officials are abroad, they are required to join the proceedings online. Additionally, the court emphasized that the next procedural step involves submitting a compassionate release petition to the US president through Mr. Smith.
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