“I have asked for and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFAT) has updated me on this matter. The Embassy of Jamaica in Kuwait has been taking steps with regard to the welfare of Mr Paul Stephens. He has been visited by the Ambassador and there have been several calls made to him from the Embassy. MFAT has been in touch with his next of kin in Jamaica and MOST IMPORTANTLY we have transmitted to the Government of Qatar a formal request for a pardon.
“The Ministry will continue to do its best to see to his welfare and secure his release, as we try to do for the many hundreds of Jamaicans who are incarcerated in numerous countries around the world.
“As the matter is being handled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, it would not only be inappropriate but would send the wrong message if another ministry interferes with the diplomatic work which is the purview of MFAT. The Ministry does not provide details of any of the cases it is involved with publicly, other than to the next of kin.
“I know Mr Stephens and his family are anxious, but matters such as these do take time. In the meantime, let us hope that the Government’s request for pardon will be granted and soon.”
Jamaica Observer sources said the Government’s request for pardon for Stephens, who was jailed for an alleged sexual incident, could be successful, as prisoners are expected to be released during Ramadon as is the practice during the holy month.
