A Uyghur human rights advocate, Idris Hasan, has recently emerged from a prolonged detention in Morocco that lasted 43 harrowing months. Accused by China of terrorism and linked to the East Turkestan Islamic Movement, the 36-year-old was initially arrested in July 2021. Following a relentless campaign led by U.S., British, and Canadian embassies, Hasan was ultimately resettled in the United States.
Hasan’s ordeal began at Casablanca’s airport when he sought asylum, only to be met with a red notice from Interpol. After his arrest, he was transferred to a prison near Tiflet. Despite Interpol suspending the warrant in August 2021 due to political persecution concerns, a Moroccan court later acquiesced to China’s extradition request, casting a shadow over Hasan’s fate.
The campaign for Hasan’s release was spearheaded by Abduweli Ayup of the Norway-based Uyghuryar Foundation, who mobilised resources and support, urging various organisations to come to his aid. Following extensive negotiations and advocacy, aid from groups such as Safeguard Defenders and advocacy letters from U.S. officials culminated in a breakthrough.
On February 14, upon his arrival in Washington, Hasan expressed profound gratitude to his supporters and especially to the U.S. government. Omer Kanat, of the Uyghur Human Rights Project, welcomed him upon arrival, aiding his transition to life in America. Hasan’s hope now rests on reunification with his family, who currently endure hardships as refugees in Turkey.
Hasan’s wife, Buzeynur Obul, communicates the immense anxiety they endured during his imprisonment, yet she now feels a sense of relief that her husband is free. They continue to struggle, dreaming of a future together again, while relying on the kindness of those who have supported them during this tumultuous journey. “Now that he’s in a free country, I feel relieved. My fear has lifted, and I’m happy.” – Obul.
Idris Hasan, a Uyghur human rights activist, was released after 43 months in Moroccan custody, accused of terrorism by China. He was supported by international pressure from U.S. and British embassies which contributed to his resettlement in the U.S. Hasan’s wife expressed immense relief at his freedom, while they hope for reunion despite their current struggles as refugees.
Idris Hasan’s release from Moroccan detention marks a significant victory for human rights advocacy amidst dire international pressure. His story is a poignant reminder of the human cost of political persecution and the relentless fight for freedom and safety. While he begins anew in the United States, the challenges ahead for Hasan’s family reflect the broader struggles faced by many Uyghurs at risk of persecution. Their journey illustrates the importance of international cooperation for human rights, reminding us that quiet diplomacy can yield profound changes when lives are at stake. The ongoing plight of Uyghurs, especially those trapped in political crosshairs, remains a pressing global issue that necessitates ongoing vigilance and action.
Original Source: www.rfa.org
