NDP statement on Liberals’ rejection of citizenship for Raif Badawi

NDP Foreign Affairs critic Hélène Laverdière issued the following statement:

"On behalf of New Democrats and concerned Canadians, I urge the government to reverse its decision to not grant Raif Badawi Canadian citizenship. Human rights experts, including Amnesty International, have been calling for Mr. Badawi to be granted Canadian citizenship in order to increase pressure on the Saudi government to release him and reunite him with his family.

"The imprisonment and flogging of Raif Badawi highlights Saudi authorities’ disregard for human rights and freedom of expression. Canada’s government must now stand up for Canadian values and show leadership in defending human rights at home and abroad.

"The Minister of Citizenship has the power to grant full citizenship to Raif Badawi, he just needs to choose to do so."