Churches Warn Against Clever Exploitation of Asylum System
The recent court documents revealed that Abdul Ezedi, the suspect in an alkali attack, was granted asylum due to his conversion to Christianity.
The home secretary has cautioned Britain’s churches against allowing asylum seekers to exploit the system by using their conversions to Christianity.
Mr. Cleverly stated, “We have advised senior Church leaders that Christian conversion does not guarantee asylum approval and emphasized the difference between welcoming new members and endorsing individuals during asylum hearings.”
He added, “Allowing individuals to take advantage of the system undermines the important societal contributions Christians and the church make each day – particularly on this day,” in reference to Easter Sunday.
“Our decision to reject the asylum claims of the Clapham alkali attacker, twice, was justified, and we believe shedding light on independent asylum tribunal decisions is necessary,” Mr. Cleverly expressed.
Granted Asylum Due to Conversion
Despite two rejections from the Home Office after illegally entering the UK in January 2016, Ezedi’s asylum appeal was accepted in November 2020 following his conversion to Christianity at a Baptist church and support from the church community.
Judge WK O’Hanlon granted his appeal, recognizing the mortal danger Ezedi would face if he returned to Afghanistan as a convert to Christianity.
Judge O’Hanlon acknowledged Ezedi’s inconsistent account but emphasized that an appeal should not be dismissed solely based on lies.
Despite doubts about Ezedi’s sincerity, the judge found his conversion evidence consistent.
Convicted Sex Offender
Ezedi got involved with the church soon after arriving in the UK, was baptized in June 2018, and engaged in street ministry efforts.
During his conversion journey, he faced convictions for sexual assault and exposure, leading to a suspended sentence, registration as a sex offender for a decade, and community service.
To monitor him at church, Ezedi and the church implemented a safeguarding contract requiring continuous supervision by a male chaperone and restricted seating during services.
This contract was meant to ensure safety and assess the necessity of Ezedi’s church attendance.
Doubts About Conversion
In the 2020 appeal, the Home Office questioned the genuineness and longevity of Ezedi’s conversion, stating his lack of understanding of Christian principles.
They accused him of deceitfully using religion for personal gain.
