Labor welcomes the release of Hakeem Alaraibi and his return to his family in Australia.
Labor was deeply concerned by Mr Alaraibis detention in Thailand and the threat of extradition to Bahrain of a person to whom we had offered sanctuary and permanent residency.
Labor raised Hakeems case directly with the Ambassador of Thailand and called for his release and return to Australia.
While questions will be asked about how Hakeem came to be detained, our focus at all times has been first and foremost on working for his release, and return to Australia.
We thank the Government and people of Thailand for their understanding and compassion.
We also wish to thank all those showing their support for Hakeem, including the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, other governments, Australians of the year Richard Harris and Craig Challen, Mr Alaraibis local community in Melbourne and in particular Mr Craig Foster, the Football Federation of Australia, and the broader football community.
Authorised by Noah Carroll, ALP, Canberra.