Justice Minister expresses shock over Rizana’s execution

Sri Lanka Muslim Congress Leader and Minister of Justice Rauff Hakeem, in a statement has expressed deep shock and remorse over the news of Rizana Nafeek’s execution in Saudi Arabia.

The statement says that President Rajapaksa kept hoping till the 11 hour that there were chances of her being released, but was unfortunately shattered.

The statement further said that he was in touch with Rizana’s parent from Mutur for a long period of time over this issue.

“President Mahinda Rajapaksa, myself and some other Cabinet Ministers, the Ministry of Justice, Attorney General’s Department and the Department of Prevention of Crime had worked with great interest in Rizana Nafeek’s case.

“The President also sent a very emotional letter pleading for amnesty and asking for forgiveness for Rizana from the King of Saudi Arabia.

“I also sent a letter seeking mercy and forgiveness for Rizana from the parents of the deceased child through the Embassy of Saudi Arabia some time ago.” Hakeem said.

He also stated “We acted with respect honouring the decision of the Sovereignty of the State of Saudi Arabia in upholding their judicial decree.

“According to the law of their country there was a fundamental requirement for the accused to be pardoned by the parents of the deceased child. That is why we sort mercy from the deceased child’s parents and the family clan.”

Hakeem went on to say that “Even few days ago there were promising signs of relief when I took up her case with the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia. The President made another plea while the Attorney General also made a special visit to Saudi over this matter recently.

“As a Minister of Justice, I too have used my personal agency and influence to the best of my ability in seeking pardon for Rizana’s release.  

“Rizana’s travel agents have also been tried in a high court of our country and were sentenced for their crime of forgery and deception for sending a young girl of her age for employment abroad.”

Hakeem concluded stating that “Despite all out efforts and the pleas from the Government of Sri Lanka, Human Rights groups and institutions, it is very disappointing to hear the news of Rizana Nafeek’s execution.

“I pray for Jannathul Firdouse for her and wish to console her aggrieved family in their bereavement, including the people of Mutur, Trincomalee and the rest of the country.”