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World News

Asia Bibi: Evangelical Alliance and Open Doors demand her freedom

As members of the Religious Liberty Commission (RLC) - which also includes Christian Solidarity Worldwide (CSW) and Release International - they have written to Imran Khan, saying Ms Bibi's life is "in danger".

In a joint statement, the four Christian charities said: "We, as the RLC, jointly call for Asia Bibi to be allowed to leave Pakistan and rebuild her life in safety.

"Following her unjust imprisonment and long-awaited release, it is clear that Asia's life is in danger in Pakistan.

"We call on Prime Minister Imran Khan to uphold the decision of the Supreme Court and act decisively in order for Asia to be able to travel and be united with her family outside of Pakistan.

"As others involved with the case continue to flee the country, we affirm that Asia's safety is now the responsibility of Prime Minister Khan."

One week since she was acquitted by Pakistan's Supreme Court - after being sentenced to death for blasphemy - it is understand the Christian mother-of-five remains in prison.

CEO of Open Doors UK & Ireland, Henrietta Blyth said: "Asia has suffered long enough. She has been declared innocent.

"Her release and her safety are well-overdue. The Pakistani government should act swiftly to ensure her safety."

Protests across several major cities drew to the streets thousands of people who demanded that Asia Bibi be publicly executed over claims she insulted Islam's Prophet Mohammad in 2010.
Asia Bibi has always denied any wrongdoing.

Dr David Landrum, director of advocacy at the Evangelical Alliance said: "Asia Bibi's life is clearly in great danger.

"To ensure her safety, Prime Minister Imran Khan must allow her to leave the country."

On Saturday, Premier reported how Mr Khan's government had agreed for proceedings to get underway to prevent Asia Bibi from leaving Pakistan - by placing her on an Exit Control list.

Release International CEO Paul Robinson said: "It would be a tragedy if Asia, who has spent so many years on death row, will now be forced to live apart from those she loves."

Chief Executive of CSW Mervyn Thomas added: "The false allegation of blasphemy against Asia Bibi highlights the blatant abuse of Pakistan's blasphemy laws that have been used to harass and intimidate religious minorities and Muslims alike.

"We urge the government of Pakistan to guarantee the safety of Asia Bibi and her family."

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