Sudan death row woman ‘to be freed’

A woman sentenced to death in Sudan after marrying a Christian could be released within days

A woman sentenced to death in Sudan after marrying a Christian could be released within days, according to reports.

A senior Khartoum official has told the BBC that Meriam Ibrahim will be freed following worldwide protests about her treatment.

British prime minister David Cameron has joined Ed Miliband, Nick Clegg and Tony Blair in condemning the "barbaric" punishment of the 27-year-old, who gave birth to a daughter this week while shackled in her cell.

Ms Ibrahim was raised a Christian by her mother and has refused to renounce the faith.

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However, a court ruled earlier this month that she is Muslim because that was her father’s faith.

Her Christian marriage was annulled and she was sentenced to 100 lashes for adultery and death by hanging for renouncing Islam.

Sex outside a “lawful relationship” is regarded as adultery under Sudanese law.

Abdullahi Alzareg, an under-secretary at the foreign ministry, told the BBC Sudan guaranteed religious freedom and was committed to protecting the woman.

Mrs Ibrahim's husband Daniel Wani said his son has become sullen and withdrawn since being incarcerated with his mother. He added that his wife was under pressure to convert her religion so she can leave prison but said she was "committed" to her right to religious freedom.

Agencies