100 signatures reached
To: Theresa May (Home Secretary) or any authorised official
To Immediately Release Ahmed Guerrah from Detention and to Suspend any plans to deport him
Please release Ahmed Guerrah from detention so he can re-join the community in Plymouth that loves and supports him. Ahmed is a failed Asylum Seeker from Algeria at his first hearing there was no evidence from expert witnesses, the legal representative was inexperienced in court and the Judge concluded that Ahmed was 'pretending to be gay' as there was no evidence that he had a homosexual relationship in the UK.
Why is this important?
Ahmed fled from Algeria with his boyfriend after they were subjected to torture, physical abuse often from their own family members. They reached Greece Ahmed got through his Boyfriend did not. They have not had any communication since.
We are asking for Ahmed to be immediately released from detention and returned to Plymouth where he has friends and an important support network.
Ahmed is a very shy, loving person in the UK he does not appear to be 'Gay' however in North Africa he is seen as effeminate and will be subjected to further abuse and even risk of being brutally murdered.
We Believe that Ahmed will not be safe in any detention centre as he will be held with others that are intrinsically homophobic. This puts him at increased risk of both physical and sexual attacks.
Much work being done to present new evidence to the Home Office including the important professional and expert reports on the physical and psychological trauma Ahmed has suffered. The first of a series of appointments with experts has been arranged is due to take place on 20th July here in Plymouth which makes the decision to detain him at this time complete madness.
Pride in Plymouth has been supporting Ahmed by reducing the social isolation he has suffered since being in the UK. He is valued and loved by ALL of the 'Pride Family' in Plymouth.
Please sign this petition to ensure Ahmed is returned to Plymouth where he has the support and love he needs whilst the necessary professional evidence is collated. It cost the tax payer far more to keep Ahmed in detention than does to house him in the community.
Homosexuality is illegal in Algeria carrying an official sentence of three years in Prison. The law in Algeria does not recognise or respect the civil rights of LGBT persons. Officially, there are no gay-friendly establishments and no political organisation is allowed to campaign for LGBT rights. Harassment, violence, and murder of LGBT persons by family members, religious fundamentalists or other vigilant groups is generally tolerated.
