Tampa Bay Coalition for Justice and Peace
Press Release
Update on Dr. Al-Najjar:
Al-Najjar's family joins him
For Immediate
Release
Tampa- February 5,
2003
Today Mazen
Al-Najjar's wife, Fedaa, and his three American-born daughters Yara (14) ,
Sarah (12), and Safa (7) were reunited with Dr. Al-Najjar after more
than 5 1/2 months since he left the US.
Since his
departure from the US last August, Dr. Al-Najjar has been to 3 different
countries hoping for a permanent residency, since as a Palestinian refugee he is
considered stateless. However, two weeks ago Dr. Al-Najjar was admitted to a US
friendly Arab country, with the hope that his residency status would soon be
adjusted. Last week this same country has also issued his wife a temporary visa
which paved the way to their re-unification today. The 3 children, being US
citizens, were not required to get a visa. The family left last evening and
arrived today.
Dr.
Al-Najjar's family spokesman, Dr. Sami Al-Arian, said after speaking with
the family today: "Dr. Al-Najjar and his family are very happy to be
reunited after years of separation and unnecessary suffering. Furthermore, Dr.
Al-Najjar reiterated during the call his gratitude and thanks to the many
friends, supporters, and his excellent legal team for their prayers,
support and work throughout his ordeal."
Dr.
Al-Najjar has requested, at this time, not to mention the name of the
country that has accepted him temporarily, until his
permanent residency is approved and secured. He hopes that the many friends
and well-wishers shall understand his concerns, since in the past visas to
reside in Guyana and Lebanon were revoked once the place was made
known publicly.
End.