The British former commander of coalition forces in Afghanistan is urging the government to show “solidarity and friendship” towards an Afghan pilot being threatened with deportation to Rwanda.
Backing The Independent’s campaign, General Lord David Richards of Herstmonceux said it would be a “travesty of justice” if the airman, who arrived in the UK via small boat, was to be kicked out.
The Afghan Air Force lieutenant worked alongside British and coalition forces, flying more than 30 combat missions, and escaped the country under threat of death from the Taliban, leaving his young family behind.
Lord Richards, a former chief of defence staff and head of UK armed forces, told The Independent: “Those who fought together in Afghanistan, the Afghan, British and other coalition forces did so with unwavering courage, dedication and solidarity.
"They forged a fellowship in battle. We need to stand by each other at times of need and continue to show that solidarity now”
