Outgoing US President Biden Rejects Clemency Request for Pakistani Neuroscientist Aafia Siddiqui

KARACHI: Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, a Pakistani neuroscientist serving an 86-year prison sentence in the United States, will not be granted clemency after outgoing US President Joe Biden turned down a mercy petition just days before leaving office.

Dr. Siddiqui was convicted in 2010 of attempting to shoot US FBI agents and soldiers during an interrogation in Afghanistan in 2008. She denies all charges, and her family has long claimed she was abducted in Pakistan in 2003 and handed over to the CIA—a claim denied by Pakistani intelligence agencies.

A Controversial Case

Siddiqui, a US-trained academic, was arrested in Afghanistan by local police in July 2008. She was allegedly found with sodium cyanide and notes referencing potential mass casualty attacks. US authorities claim she seized an M-4 rifle during interrogation and opened fire while shouting anti-American slogans. Though no one was injured, she was convicted of attempted murder, armed assault, and related charges.

Her supporters, including her sister Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui, have consistently argued that her trial was unfair. The case has sparked widespread debate in Pakistan, where many view her imprisonment as unjust.

Family Response

Following Biden’s decision, Dr. Fowzia Siddiqui urged supporters not to lose hope. In a video message, she said, “Our [mercy] petition was denied at the very last moment. We will now move to Plan B and Plan D. Please stay steadfast and continue your support.”

Appeals from Pakistan

In October 2024, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wrote to Biden requesting Siddiqui’s release, citing concerns about her deteriorating physical and mental health. The letter emphasized fears that her condition could lead to self-harm.

Despite repeated appeals, including a 76,500-word dossier submitted by her lawyer, Clive Stafford Smith, the Biden administration rejected the clemency plea.

Public Sentiment in Pakistan

Dr. Aafia Siddiqui’s imprisonment remains a polarizing issue in Pakistan. Public rallies and campaigns have frequently called for her repatriation. Her family and supporters vow to continue lobbying for her release, even as political and legal avenues narrow.

The rejection of clemency for Dr. Aafia Siddiqui by President Biden has sparked renewed debate about justice and human rights. While the fight for her release continues, her case highlights broader challenges in US-Pakistan relations and the complexities of international law.