British Couple Detained by Taliban to Face Court in Kabul
Peter and Barbie Reynolds, held on unknown charges, have concerns over fair trial and health issues amid escalating imprisonment conditions.
Peter Reynolds, 79, and his wife, Barbie Reynolds, 75, a British couple operating a training business in Afghanistan, are scheduled to appear in a Kabul court on Thursday following their detention last month.
The couple was arrested while traveling to their home in Bamiyan province, where they have been involved in educational projects for nearly two decades.
Barbie Reynolds communicated with family members from Pul-e-Charki prison, indicating a court date had been established without prior notification of the charges against them.
The couple's detention has raised alarms about Peter Reynolds' health, as he requires ongoing medical attention.
Family sources stated that he has not received necessary heart medication during his imprisonment, which has raised serious concerns about his well-being.
The court proceedings are reportedly set to include their interpreter, Juya, who faces the same uncertainties regarding charges but will be unable to provide translation services during the hearing.
This has led to fears that the couple's legal rights may not be upheld adequately.
In a voicemail, Barbie Reynolds expressed apprehension about the lack of information regarding the charges they will face, stating that they expect to learn the specifics for the first time during the court appearance.
Their daughter, Sarah Entwistle, highlighted the challenging circumstances, noting that the judicial process may not be just without proper interpretation and communication support for her parents.
The Reynolds couple has continued their work in Afghanistan since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, despite the imposition of restrictions on women’s employment and education.
Some of their educational initiatives received approval from local authorities despite the current regulations.
The couple was detained alongside their friend Faye Hall and interpreter Juya on February 1. Reports suggest this action may have stemmed from issues regarding flight coordination with local government authorities.
Sarah Entwistle has made public appeals for the release of her parents and their companions, calling it a gesture of goodwill during Ramadan, a significant period of reflection within the Islamic faith.
The couple's family continues to advocate for their release, stressing the urgent need for medical care and the right to a fair judicial process.
The couple was arrested while traveling to their home in Bamiyan province, where they have been involved in educational projects for nearly two decades.
Barbie Reynolds communicated with family members from Pul-e-Charki prison, indicating a court date had been established without prior notification of the charges against them.
The couple's detention has raised alarms about Peter Reynolds' health, as he requires ongoing medical attention.
Family sources stated that he has not received necessary heart medication during his imprisonment, which has raised serious concerns about his well-being.
The court proceedings are reportedly set to include their interpreter, Juya, who faces the same uncertainties regarding charges but will be unable to provide translation services during the hearing.
This has led to fears that the couple's legal rights may not be upheld adequately.
In a voicemail, Barbie Reynolds expressed apprehension about the lack of information regarding the charges they will face, stating that they expect to learn the specifics for the first time during the court appearance.
Their daughter, Sarah Entwistle, highlighted the challenging circumstances, noting that the judicial process may not be just without proper interpretation and communication support for her parents.
The Reynolds couple has continued their work in Afghanistan since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, despite the imposition of restrictions on women’s employment and education.
Some of their educational initiatives received approval from local authorities despite the current regulations.
The couple was detained alongside their friend Faye Hall and interpreter Juya on February 1. Reports suggest this action may have stemmed from issues regarding flight coordination with local government authorities.
Sarah Entwistle has made public appeals for the release of her parents and their companions, calling it a gesture of goodwill during Ramadan, a significant period of reflection within the Islamic faith.
The couple's family continues to advocate for their release, stressing the urgent need for medical care and the right to a fair judicial process.
