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Video: I’m not ready to forgive initial delays; Nasser Sheikh

18 Jul 2014 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Murdered British Red Cross Worker Khuram’s brother Nasser Shaikh today said he was not ready to forgive the initial delays involved with the prosecution of his brother’s murder, that took close to two and a half years before a trial date was set for the case.

Speaking to a few journalists at a hotel in Colombo, Nasser said, “I am not ready to forgive the initial delays just because of today’s verdict; because only I am aware of the effort and the dedication I had to put in and the adverse issues I had to face. This was a journey I was thrown into – one that I don’t wish on anyone else.”

He said he was reasonably satisfied with the verdict given on his brother’s murder and the rape of his late brother’s girlfriend Victoria although he was not able to obtain all the answers.

Speaking of Victoria who was present at the trial today but has not spoken to media, Nasser said more than anyone else it was she who faces the biggest challenge of rebuilding her life after the tragic incident.

“Even I have not grieved properly. When I was asked today on what my next move would be I said I wish to cry. I did not get the chance to grieve my brother before the responsibility of leading the campaign to seek justice for his murder but hopefully today’s events will allow that,” he said.

When questioned on whether the end of trial would give him closure Nasser said, “It’s probably never going to happen – it will not happen overnight just because a verdict has been given. But just that one piece of the puzzle is present.”

Nasser said the worry of whether those sentenced would be released prematurely would always be at the back of his mind. “That happens in many cases around the world- pardons are granted for good behaviour etc. But the severity of this case is so huge – not just the murder element but the multiple charges that they were found guilty of. So I would be shocked or very surprised should the sentence be minimized at some point,” he added.

Speaking further he said it was up to the present government to ensure that it doesn’t happen and guarantee the integrity within the government and the judicial system continues.

Answering a question posed on what their next course of action would be against the impending appeal on part of those sentenced today, Nasser said although the next course of action was not decided one thing was certain – that they would continue to challenge the appeals. (Lakna Paranamanna)

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Pix by Indraratne Balasuriya

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Video: I’m not ready to forgive initial delays; Nasser Sheikh

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