Refugee footballer Hakeem al-Araibi has become an Australian citizen after a nearly five-year wait.The Bahrain-born player took the oath at a ceremony at Melbourne’s Federation Square this morning.
The 25-year-old made headlines after being detained in Thailand in November while on his honeymoon and spending more than 70 days in a Bangkok jail when his birth country pursued his extradition over vandalism allegations. He returned to Melbourne in February after Thailand dropped extradition proceedings against him.Former Socceroo Craig Foster, who spearheaded the global campaign for al-Araibi’s release, shared a photo on Instagram to celebrate al-Araibi’s citizenship news.
Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne and refugee footballer Hakeem Al-Araibi who received his Australian citizenship during a ceremony in Melbourne.
“207 new Citizens today from 44 countries in ceremony at Federation Square,” Foster wrote.“Including one very happy, proud new compatriot, whose fight to become an Aussie was considerable, and who is deeply motivated to make a contribution to his new country. We’re proud of you Hakeem, and are delighted to have you onboard.”
Al-Araibi was wanted by Bahrain after fleeing the country when he was charged with vandalising a police station in 2012. He was sentenced to 10 years in jail in absentia. Al-Araibi denied the crime.The Bahrain national fled to Australia in 2014 and was granted refugee status.