Supreme Court Reserves Decision on Asia Bibi

Asia Bibi - Photo: VOM USA - www.persecution.com
Photo: VOM USA

A final appeal of the death sentence against Asia Bibi was heard by Pakistan's Supreme Court on October 8th. The court has reached its decision but chosen to not release it yet, warning the press against releasing any information until the decision is officially announced.

Asia Bibi has been imprisoned for nine years on charges widely seen as false. Many believe fear of further violence from Islamist militants has been a major reason why she has not been released. More details on Asia's case can be found on our website.

The reason for the court's delay has not been given, but there are huge difficulties facing the country with whatever decision made. The court could rule to uphold the conviction and death sentence. That would leave Asia with only an appeal directly to the president. If that decision was made, the international pressure against Pakistan would be substantial, since Asia has been widely seen as innocent.

If Asia is found innocent and released, she and anyone supporting her face the threat of death. In 2011, the governor of Punjab, Salmaan Taseer, and a federal minister, Shahbaz Bhatti, were both assassinated for expressing their support. Asia and her family would also face imminent danger from those who are convinced that she is guilty. Fleeing the country could mean danger for her elsewhere, as well as violent protests within the country. One militant group has threatened: "If there is any attempt to hand her over to a foreign country, there will be terrible consequences."

A third option could mean suspending the death penalty, changing it to life imprisonment which, in Pakistan, is 14 years in total. That would mean five more years of unjust confinement in prison, which may not prevent the repercussion of violent protests by militants who continue to call for Asia's death.

Pray for wisdom and justice on behalf of the judicial authorities of the court and those governing in Pakistan as they seek the best way and time to release the decision. May Asia and her family rest in the knowledge that they are in the Almighty Lord's hands and, though the situation may seem humanly impossible, "nothing is impossible with God" (Matthew 19:26).

  • Current Ministry Projects

    VOMC partners to train Christian women in sewing skills throughout Pakistan to provide a sustainable source of income for their families and encourage them in their faith and witness for Christ.

    Project Funds: Families of Martyrs, Women’s Ministry

  • Country Information

    Population
    247,653,551 (2023 est.)

    Ethnicity (%)
    Punjabi (44.7), Pashtun [Pathan] (15.4), Sindhi (14.1), Saraiki (8.4) Muhajirs (7.6) Balochi (3.6), Other (6.3)

    Religion (%)
    Islam (96.5), Other - Christian and Hindu (3.5)

    Leader
    President Asif Ali Zardari (2024)

    Government type
    Federal parliamentary republic

    Legal system
    Common law system with Islamic law influence

    Source: CIA World Factbook

  • Pray for Pakistan

    Pray that amendments will be made to Pakistan's existing blasphemy laws so that the country's citizens – including its children – will be protected from injustice and abuse. May our Lord's mercy and justice prevail, not only in the judiciary system but also in the hearts of the country's militants. Ask Him to transform their "hearts of stone" into hearts that are receptive to His love, mercy and the workings of His Holy Spirit – not only for the purpose of protecting the Christian minority but also for the salvation of their own eternal souls.

Pakistan News

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    Afzal Masih, surrounded by his loved ones.
    Photo: Morning Star News

    In the early morning hours of September 7th, a van carrying as many as 18 Catholics was travelling to a pilgrimage site in Mariamabad when three young men on motorbikes intercepted the vehicle by swerving in front of it. The motorcyclists had noticed a cross and Christian posters on the outside of the travelling van.

  • Delayed Investigation After Attack on Christian Woman
    A very dark room is dimly lit by a single window in the corner. A woman is silhouetted against the window.
     

    A horrific attack on a young Christian mother has once again exposed the severe forms of persecution experienced by religious minorities in Pakistan. On June 11th, Sheeza Bibi was brutally raped by three men while her three-year-old daughter, Dua, watched in terror. The incident was clearly premeditated.

  • Court Decisions Render Justice for Christians
    Adil Babar is standing outside.
    Adil Babar
    Photo: Morning Star News

    Christians in Pakistan often encounter intense opposition, particularly through the country's legal system. However, three recent court rulings have brought about a measure of relief and a renewed hope for justice.