We, the undersigned, urgently call for presidential clemency for Maqsood Haider, a former officer in the Pakistan Air Force and long-time instructor in the UAE Air Force.

Maqsood Haider has been sentenced to 10 years in prison in the UAE following an innocent meeting with an alleged intelligence agent. This meeting, which took place at the UAE Embassy, was purely professional and related to the transfer of an attorney and other legal matters. At the time of the meeting, my father had no knowledge that the individual was an agent, and there was no criminal intent.

It is important to note that Maqsood Haider was introduced to the agent by a friend who had more frequent and direct dealings with the individual in question. Despite this, the friend was released from custody, even though they had more involvement with the agent. My father’s case is one of circumstantial association, and he had no knowledge of any wrongdoing.

Maqsood Haider has served with distinction for over 35 years in both the Pakistan and UAE Air Forces, with an exemplary record throughout his career. He is now over 65 years old and suffers from heart disease, which has been exacerbated by the harsh conditions of his imprisonment. His health is deteriorating rapidly, and we fear for his life.

We respectfully appeal to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, to grant clemency on humanitarian grounds. My father’s involvement in this situation was purely incidental, and we ask for compassion given his age, health, and his long and honorable service to both Pakistan and the UAE.

We ask for your mercy and understanding in light of the circumstances and request the immediate release of Maqsood Haider to allow him to receive the medical care he urgently needs.