Miracle in Riyadh: Kerala’s crowdfunding saves Indian driver from execution in Saudi Arabia
In a tale that captivated hearts worldwide, Machilakath Abdul Rahim, a 44-year-old Indian national, has narrowly avoided execution in Saudi Arabia, thanks to an extraordinary global effort that raised nearly $4 million. Rahim’s journey from accused to survivor began in 2006, when he arrived in Riyadh to work as a driver for the Al-Shahri family, specifically tasked with caring for 15-year-old Anas al-Shahri, who was paralyzed from the neck down due to a rare health condition.
Tragedy struck during a routine outing when a mishap caused Anas’ life-support device to malfunction, leading to his untimely death. Rahim, panicked and desperate, sought help from a relative, Mohammed Naseer, concocting a story to cover up the accident. However, their deceit was soon uncovered, landing them both behind bars.
Despite maintaining his innocence, Rahim faced an uphill battle in the Saudi legal system, where the testimony of the victim’s family carries significant weight. Years dragged on, with Rahim’s appeals hitting dead ends, leaving him with a death sentence looming over his head.
Enter a glimmer of hope: expatriate activists like Ashraf Venghat, based in Riyadh, who tirelessly advocated for Rahim’s cause. With legal avenues exhausted, they turned to diplomacy and mediation. However, progress was slow, exacerbated by the complexities of navigating Saudi law and bureaucracy.
As Rahim’s saga draws to a close, it serves as a testament to the power of community, transcending borders and barriers, and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, hope endures
Then, a beacon of light emerged from Rahim’s homeland, Kerala, where a diverse and united community rallied behind their embattled compatriot. From the streets of Kerala to the corridors of power, voices clamored for justice, refusing to let Rahim’s plight fade into obscurity.
Key figures like Boby Chemmanur, a flamboyant jeweler with a heart of gold, and a tech-savvy software start-up team, lent their support, catapulting Rahim’s cause onto the global stage. Through a combination of grassroots fundraising and high-profile contributions, the campaign gained momentum, inching closer to its lofty goal.
Finally, after years of uncertainty and anguish, a breakthrough: a negotiated settlement with Anas’ family, brokered with the assistance of Indian embassy officials. With funds secured and paperwork underway, Rahim’s release is imminent, marking a triumph of perseverance, solidarity, and the indomitable spirit of Kerala.
As Rahim’s saga draws to a close, it serves as a testament to the power of community, transcending borders and barriers, and a reminder that even in the darkest of times, hope endures.
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