OLDER SUFI SHEIKH FORCIBLY DISAPPEARED FOR A YEAR [Libya 12.25]

Dear Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar,

I am writing to express my deep concern over the ongoing enforced disappearance of 79-year-old Sufi Sheikh Muftah Al-Amin Al-Biju (hereafter Shaikh Al-Biju), was arbitrary arrested by heavily armed men in plainclothes. His detention is part of a larger crackdown targeting Sufis. The family has still received no official information regarding his whereabouts, fate, or legal status.

Amnesty International learned that relatives were told by unofficial sources that Sheikh Al-Biju was being detained in Gernada prison, where his health has been deteriorating since his incarceration. Concerns about his wellbeing are mounting amid reports of torture and other ill-treatment in Gernada prison. Former detainees also recount cruel and inhuman detention conditions including exposure to extreme cold without climate appropriate clothing or bedding, and denial of adequate healthcare.

I urge LAAF to immediately disclose the fate and whereabouts of Sheikh Al-Biju; and release him immediately as his detention is linked solely to the exercise of his human rights, including freedom of religion. In the meantime, the LAAF must grant Sheikh Al-Biju access to his family, lawyers, and adequate healthcare, including in outside hospitals if necessary. He must be protected from torture and other ill treatment and held in conditions meeting international standards.

Yours sincerely,

[YOUR NAME]