The family of a hunger striker in prison is deeply concerned and has urgently appealed to the government for intervention. Kamran Ahmed, a 28-year-old from London, has been on a hunger strike for 44 days to protest for Palestine. He is currently detained in HMP Pentonville for allegedly breaking into a UK site of an Israel-based defense company using sledgehammers.
Ahmed’s health deteriorated significantly due to the hunger strike, leading to his hospitalization. Despite facing critical health issues like chest pains and tremors, he remains committed to his cause, stating that sacrificing his life would be justified. The hunger strikers have expressed their grievances in a legal letter to Justice Secretary David Lammy, accusing the government of disregarding its own prison safety policies.
In response, a Ministry of Justice spokesperson denied the claims, emphasizing the priority of providing support to the prisoners for their well-being. Kamran’s sister, Shahmina Alam, has urged Mr. Lammy to take action and emphasized the importance of upholding justice and government integrity.
The hunger striker’s father, Ali, revealed concerns about his son’s deteriorating health, with updates from the prison authorities ceasing to reach the family. A plea has been made for humane treatment and care for the hunger strikers, highlighting the dire situation faced by Kamran and others in similar circumstances.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has affirmed that the established procedures are being followed, addressing queries regarding the government’s response to the hunger strike situation. Lord Timpson, the Prisons minister, acknowledged the seriousness of hunger strikes in prisons but assured that necessary healthcare measures are in place to monitor and care for the prisoners.
The family continues to await news about Kamran’s condition, expressing fears about his well-being in prison. Calls for government intervention persist as the hunger strikers put their lives at risk to draw attention to their cause.
