Photo: World Watch Monitor
Two Christian brothers, Qaisar and Amoon Ayub, have been in Jhelum Jail since 2015 on accusations of blasphemy. The allegations go back to 2009 for website material that was considered offensive against Islam. On December 14th, the brothers received notice that they had been convicted and sentenced to death. For security reasons, the two did not appear in court for the sentencing.
The brothers are being represented by members of the Centre for Legal Aid Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS), who believe that the conviction may have been influenced by threats against the judge. They intend to appeal the decision to the Lahore High Court as soon as possible. CLAAS-UK director Nasir Saeed stated: "Because of threats from hardliners, lower courts pass their responsibility to the higher court and then it takes years to prove the accused innocent. We have seen this in the recent case of Asia Bibi.... I am afraid now Qaisar and Amoon will have to wait years to get justice."
Qaisar is married with three children. Amoon is married to a school teacher in Lahore. For more information on the situation facing Christians in Pakistan, go to our country report.
Please lift up Qaisar and Amoon as they face an uncertain future in prison. Also remember Qaisar's wife Amina and their children, along with Amoon's wife Huma, during these long days of separation and lack of spousal/paternal support. Also continue to remember Asia Bibi, who has been acquitted and released, but remains in hiding from militants seeking her life. Pray that the governments and courts in Pakistan will take the bold step of standing up and removing the blasphemy laws; and that the general public will realize the injustice and suffering these harsh laws cause many accused victims and their families.
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