Free Rizana, Women’s Education and Research Centre appeals to Saudi King

COLOMBO: The Women’s Education and Research Centre has appealed to the Saudi King to pardon Rizana Nazik who is facing execution for the alleged murder of her Saudi employer’s infant.

The Centre said they were making this appeal as she is only 17 years old child.

They also pointed out that the accident was not deliberate but occurred due to Rizana’s youth and inexperience.

“She was not provided with a translator on time and we understand that the child died from choking and this was not communicated properly to all concerned. This was also further complicated by miscommunication,” the Centre said in a release.

“We note that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has ratified the UN Convention on the rights of the child.

Therefore, it becomes all the more significant and you are bound by the International Law to protect the life of Rizana irrespective of the Court order. Rizana is only 17 years and she falls within this prohibition.

Rizana was not aware of the charges against her and was made to sign a confession under ignorance. She neither understood the contents nor the implications of signing,” the release said.

“Your pardon will give not just Rizana and her immediate family, but also her community, and the world at large immeasurable relief,” the Centre said in the release.

“While sharing his grief, we appeal to the father who lost the baby rather unfortunately to pardon this child who can escape death by his pardon,” the Centre’s Executive Director Dr. Selvy Thiruchandran said.