12/24/2018 Pakistan (International Christian Concern) – Despite being acquitted in October, Asia Bibi is set to celebrate her first Christmas off death row in hiding and under guard in Pakistan. With many extremists still calling for Bibi’s death, her release also has many Pakistani Christians concerned for the safety of their entire community this Christmas.

On October 31, Bibi was acquitted of the blasphemy charge that had kept her on death row in Pakistan since 2010. The allegation was based on an argument Bibi got into with Muslim coworkers after she took a drink for a communal water bowl while working in a field in 2009. According to her coworkers, Bibi had spiritually fouled the water bowl when she touched it because of her faith identity.

Since that fateful day in June 2009, Bibi’s blasphemy case has dominated headlines and politics in Pakistan. In 2011, controversy over Bibi’s case directly led to the assassination of two top politicians seeking to support her.

While she has been released from prison, Bibi remains hidden in Pakistan and under armed guard. Many fear that if given the chance, extremists in Pakistan will kill the Christian mother. While it is disappointing that Bibi will not be entirely free this Christmas, at least she is able to celebrate this holiday with her husband and children.

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