A Pakistani pastor who spent 13 years in prison on blasphemy charges has died just two days after his acquittal and release. Zafar Bhatti, 62, died of a heart attack at his home in Rawalpindi, Punjab Province, on October 5.
Bhatti was accused in 2012 of sending text messages insulting the Prophet Muhammad, charges he consistently denied.
He was sentenced to life imprisonment in 2017, and his sentence was later increased to death penalty in 2021. Despite facing pressure and torture, Bhatti maintained his innocence throughout his imprisonment.
The British Asian Christian Association (BACA) had provided Bhatti with legal representation and support for his wife, Nawab Bibi. After his acquittal on October 2, Bhatti was released from Adiala District Jail and reunited with his wife.
Bhatti’s health had deteriorated significantly during his imprisonment, with prison medical staff noting that his heart function had dropped to around 15%. Despite his poor health, Bhatti expressed joy and vindication after his acquittal.
BACA described Bhatti’s faith, endurance, and ultimate vindication as a powerful testament to hope in Christ amidst persecution. His story highlights the need for reform in Pakistan’s blasphemy laws, which are often used to target religious minorities and vulnerable individuals.