Release International calls for other blasphemy cases to be thrown out

Release International

Pakistan Christian Younis Masih, who had been sentenced to death for blasphemy, was released on appeal yesterday. The father-of-four had been in jail since November 2005. He was set free after a successful appeal to the High Court in Lahore this morning.

The decision is welcomed by Release International, which serves persecuted Christians worldwide. Release has been working with partners in Pakistan for Younis' release and hopes the move will set a precedent that will lead to the acquittal of others charged with blasphemy.

Release chief executive Paul Robinson said: 'Today we are celebrating with Younis, his family and our partners who have supported them for all these years. We hope this sets a precedent for other victims of Pakistan's notorious blasphemy laws who should now be released. We were encouraged by the judges' decision to throw out a case against Rimsha Masih (no relation) last year following an international outcry.

'Release commends the bravery of High Court judges in Lahore today who released Younis, despite intense pressure from Muslim hardliners who filled earlier court hearings, apparently trying to intimidate the judges.'

Younis Masih was accused of blasphemy against Islam's prophet, Mohammed, after complaining about noise levels at an Islamic religious ceremony which took place in his neighbourhood in Punjab at midnight.

The following day, a mob beat Younis Masih and set upon his wife, Meena, when she came to help him. Four hundred protestors, armed with sticks and bricks, then attacked and ransacked Christian houses, breaking down doors and stoning local churches, throwing Bibles on to the floor. More than 100 Christian families had to flee to save their lives.

Younis was sentenced to death for blasphemy in May 2007. He suffered a serious heart attack in custody in January this year.

Release partners are now making arrangements for the safe transfer of Younis from jail to an unspecified location.

Release partners, who cannot be named, add: 'God has seen the suffering of Younis Masih in the prison; He has looked upon the sorrows of his wife and children and heard our continuing prayers.'