For over two decades, the name Dr. Aafia Siddiqui has been debated in international legal and human rights circles. A Pakistani neuroscientist educated at MIT and Brandeis University, she was convicted in 2010 by a U.S. court on charges of attempted murder of American personnel in Afghanistan—a case shrouded in controversy, conflicting evidence, and allegations of violations of due process. Today, she is serving an 86-year sentence at FMC Carswell, Texas, a punishment many critics deem excessive and prejudiced.
The latest chapter in this high-profile case came when former President Joe Biden officially rejected Dr. Aafia’s clemency petition, dismissing growing calls for her release from human rights organizations, a few Pakistani senators, and over 1.7 million global petitioners. The decision has sparked outrage, not only in Pakistan but also among legal experts and international justice advocates, who see this as yet another example of American selective justice.
Biden’s Use of Clemency Powers
Former President Joe Biden exercised his clemency powers selectively, granting pardons and sentence commutations to various individuals. These include non-violent drug offenders, politically connected figures, and even members of his social circles. Notably, his clemency orders disproportionately benefited individuals convicted of white-collar crimes and drug offenses, raising concerns about the fairness of the process.
According to a report, Joe Biden granted a “full and unconditional pardon” to his son, Hunter Biden, covering all offenses from 2014 to 2024, despite previously stating he would not pardon him.
Given this record, the question arises: Why was Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, a victim of extraordinary rendition and alleged abuse, denied clemency when so many others received it?
Pakistan’s Role: Diplomatic Failures or U.S. Pressure?
From General Pervez Musharraf to the governments of Imran Khan and Shehbaz Sharif, each administration has expressed concerns about Dr. Siddiqui’s plight. However, these concerns have largely been performative, used to pacify public outrage rather than initiate real action.
The Shehbaz Sharif-led government continued the trend but in an even worse manner. Mr. Sharif sent an official letter to President Biden requesting Dr. Aafia’s release, but it left many wondering why the chief executive of a state did not even receive a reply, a thank-you note, or any confirmation.
Adding insult to injury, Pakistani leaders have often downplayed Dr. Siddiqui’s case at critical junctures. Shockingly, Pakistani Ambassador to the USA, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, and Pakistani Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, were going to attend Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration shortly after her clemency appeal was denied, highlighting a stark contrast between rhetoric and action. Pakistani intelligence blocked a proposed prisoner swap, raising serious questions.
Is it a Setback?
The rejection of the petition was a blow to Aafia’s supporters, yet it also sparked a glimmer of hope. It was by far the most significant effort made for Dr. Aafia’s release. Her sister echoed this sentiment, calling it just the beginning of their success.
Similarly, Team Aafia reassured supporters with a powerful message:
“We expected from Allah, not from Biden.”
They maintained that this was not a defeat but a victory.
The case has reignited public support, with campaigns advocating for Dr. Siddiqui gaining widespread momentum—a testament to the unwavering backing she continues to receive.
Meanwhile, her lawyer, Clive Stafford Smith, has announced plans to proceed with “Plan B,” which is a prisoner swap with Shakil Afridi. Supporters remain hopeful that these relentless efforts will ultimately lead to the release of the most wronged woman on the planet.
