Wife Of Deported Pakistani Journalist Seeks Visa Extension

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The wife of Pakistani investigative journalist Syed Fawad Ali Shah who was deported to his home country after spending a decade in exile in Malaysia is seeking an extension of her stay here.
According to her lawyer P Waytha Moorthy’s office, Syeda's extended stay is crucial to find out the truth about her husband's whereabouts, as well as to decide the next course of action.
In a statement, Waytha's team said they had written to immigration director-general Khairul Dzaimee Daud, seeking an extension of her visa on Jan 6 and had given the department until Jan 14 to confirm their decision.
"Failing this, the legal team would consider taking legal action against the DG for his failure to exercise his duties for the right of a foreigner to seek leave to remain in Malaysia to pursue a legal course," read the statement.
According to the statement, the team has also contacted the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan and the Pakistan Bar Council for assistance on the matter. The fact that Syed Fawad (above) has not been produced in any court in his home country despite his extradition raises grave concern, they added.
"Our legal team would communicate with the necessary departments in Malaysia, as well as seek assistance from the legal fraternity and human rights commission in Pakistan.
"What is pertinent now is the safety of Syed Fawad."
Last month, Syeda pleaded for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's help to locate her husband, who has been missing since Aug 23 last year.
Syed Fawad, 41, is reportedly known for probing government corruption and missing persons via several English dailies in his home country.
He has been living in exile in Malaysia for over 10 years to escape persecution in Pakistan and is said to be a UNHCR card holder.
Last week, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail confirmed that Syed Fawad was deported to Pakistan last August upon the Pakistani government's request. - Mkini

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