Pakistani-Origin Activist Shoaib Sohail Faces Deportation Amid Controversy
Shoaib Sohail, a Pakistani-origin activist residing in the UK since 2008, recently revealed that he is at risk of deportation. Sohail claims his support for controversial figure Tommy Robinson led to his dismissal from Swansea Council and subsequent intimidation.
Job Termination and Alleged Intimidation
According to Sohail, Swansea Council pressured him to delete his social media accounts, including X and YouTube, due to his outspoken views. He shared that his community tried to silence him through threats, misinformation, and even involvement of the police, resulting in his arrest on what he describes as fabricated allegations.
Standing on His Own Feet Without Benefits
In a detailed social media post, Sohail announced the forced end of his journey in the UK, emphasizing that he has never relied on state benefits. He highlighted an instance where he proactively declined benefits from the Home Office, frustrated by the abuse of the system by illegal immigrants.
His Words:
"What many don’t know is that I am not entitled to any benefits in the UK. I never needed them, I always had good jobs and took pride in standing on my own two feet. In fact, I once wrote to the Home Office declining benefits because I saw how many illegal immigrants were taking advantage of the system."
Limited Options: Pakistan or Elsewhere?
Facing joblessness and barred from state assistance, Sohail expressed uncertainty about his next destination. His Pakistani passport, he said, has become a barrier, with many companies in Dubai and Saudi Arabia effectively blacklisting Pakistani applicants, making employment overseas difficult.
As a result, he feels compelled to consider returning to Pakistan, though not without apprehension.
Threats and Fear for Safety
Sohail is a vocal critic of religious extremism and claims to have received numerous death threats from various groups across South Asia after a viral interview outside Tommy Robinson’s court hearing in London.
"If I go back, I know there are people who would love nothing more than to silence me permanently," he stated.
The Bigger Picture
- Shoaib Sohail has lived in the UK for over 15 years.
- He was dismissed from his role at Swansea Council allegedly due to his political views.
- Claims of intimidation and wrongful arrest suggest rising tensions around his activism.
- His firm stance against extremist ideologies has made him a target in multiple countries.
- Employment opportunities have narrowed due to passport restrictions and geopolitical biases.
The unfolding situation highlights the complexities faced by activists who challenge prevailing narratives within their communities, especially when intertwined with broader political sensitivities.
