7/8/2025 Pakistan (International Christian Concern) — On June 25, the Supreme Court of Pakistan lifted charges against Anwar Kenneth, a mentally ill Catholic man, who was sentenced to death for having been accused of blasphemy 23 years ago.  

His case was overturned by a three-judge bench that repeatedly heard from doctors that he had a mental illness and ruled that an individual with a mental illness cannot be held criminally liable. 

Kenneth, 72, was arrested in 2001 for allegedly writing letters about the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad that were considered blasphemous. In Pakistan, blasphemy charges carry penalties ranging from life imprisonment to death.  

In July of 2002, a court in Lahore sentenced Kenneth to death and fined him the equivalent of $17,985. His case was heard again in 2014, but the charges were upheld by the Lahore High Court, despite reports of Kenneth’s declining mental condition.  

“Thanks to the judges of the Supreme Court for doing justice. Justice is delayed, but justice is done,” said Dominican Father James Channan, director of the Peace Center in Lahore. “I lament that Anwar Kenneth has lost very precious 23 years of his life. Now, those who falsely accused him of blasphemy must be put behind bars.”  

Pakistan is notable for its blasphemy laws, which have imprisoned many Christians and innocent people throughout the years. Human Rights Watch released a new report stating the increase of blasphemy charges, ranging from 11 in 2020 up to 475 in 2024, most coming from social media comments. 

Many are calling for Pakistan to change its laws and uphold international human rights.  

“That it took 24 years to correct such a gross miscarriage of justice reflects deeply rooted flaws in Pakistan’s legal framework,” said Joseph Janssen, advocacy officer at Jubilee Campaign Netherlands. 

While Kenneth’s case involves a mental ailment, it could be a starting point for legislative changes in the future. “This long-overdue acquittal is not only a relief for Kenneth but also a beacon of hope for all those unjustly imprisoned due to their faith,” Janssen added. 

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