According to unconfirmed reports, blogger Raif Badawi may now face a retrial for Apostasy in Saudi Arabia, which could result in the death penalty if he is convicted. Badawi was previously sentenced to 10 years in prison, one thousand lashes, a fine, a 10-year travel ban, and a 10-year media participation ban for “insulting Islam” and “founding a liberal website.” PEN is calling for Badawi’s current conviction to be overturned; for his sentence of flogging to be halted immediately, as it violates the absolute prohibition in international law against torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading punishment; and for him not to be retried for Apostasy, as this would breach his right to freedom of belief.
PEN International also reiterates its call for the release of Badawi’s lawyer, Waleed Abu al-Khair, who is serving a 15-year prison sentence.
For extracts of Raif Badawi’s writings in English and Arabic, click here.
