Rev. Kuwa Shamal
Photo: World Watch Monitor
Rev. Kuwa Shamal, one of four men detained in Sudan since December 2015, has recently been released. During a hearing on January 2nd, the judge ruled that there was not enough evidence against Pastor Kuwa, who had been charged along with three other men with "crimes against national security" in Khartoum. You may review a previously posted report on their situation by going to this page.
The trial for Rev. Hassan Abduraheem, Czech aid worker Petr Jasek, and a student by the name of Abdulmonem Abdumawla, was to commence on January 9th when defense lawyers are scheduled to present their cases. (To date, we have not received any news of the outcome which means their cases may still require further deliberation.) The three men are facing several criminal charges, including "waging war against the state" and "spying." If found guilty, these men could face the death penalty or life in prison.
Mr. Jasek, a former hospital administrator with 20 years of experience in the health field, has previously assisted VOM in providing care to persecuted Christians in Sudan and Nigeria, including medical care for Christians attacked by Boko Haram. In Mr. Jasek's first letter to his family, which was sent after his arrest in December 2015, he stated that "God holds the key to my cell; He will open the door in His timing."
After months of delays, multiple hearings have taken place in recent weeks. During a hearing on December 14th, Ali Omer, a Darfurian man who suffered burns during a demonstration, gave his testimony and was cross-examined. The detainees were attempting to help this man and were subsequently accused of promoting his case to defame the government. Defense lawyers reportedly believe the testimony has given the defense a significant boost in its case.
Thank you for joining us as we offer praise to God for the release of Pastor Kuwa, remaining mindful of our need to continue praying for favourable outcomes on behalf of the three other imprisoned believers.
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