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Petition launched in defence of Maldivian boy facing deportation in Australia

Raif Amyl Jalyl
02 May 2019, MVT 12:48
Kayban Jamshaad. PHOTO: ABC NEWS
Raif Amyl Jalyl
02 May 2019, MVT 12:48

"Save Kayban' petition was launched to amass signatures to prevent Kayban Jamshaad, a two-year-old Maldivian boy born with health complications, from being deported from Australia where is receiving medical care.

The toddler, born in Australia, has a brain injury that occurred when he was born at St John of God Banbury Hospital in Busselton, Western Australia, and severe haemophilia - a bleeding disorder which stops blood clotting.

According to Australian media ABC, he requires 24/7 medical care to manage visual impairment, seizure disorder, developmental delays and spastic quadriplegia - paralysis of all four limbs - stemming from his brain injury, and weekly medication for his haemophilia.

ABC news reports that “under Australia's immigration laws, applicants can be rejected if they have any condition which could result in significant healthcare costs or prejudice the access of Australian citizens and residents to health services".

It is under those criteria that Australia’s Department of Home Affairs is barring Kayban visa and citizenship status in the country, according to reports. The department estimated the boy’s health costs would be USD 59,000 yearly, thereby doubting the capability of Kayban’s family to cover the cost.

The 'Save Kayban' petition amassed over 7,000 signatures till date, including the signatures of many Maldivians.

Moreover, medical specialists stated that Maldives is not equipped to manage Kayban’s complex health needs.

The case to appeal the department's ruling on Kayban’s visa status is being appealed at Australia’s Administrative Appeal Tribunal. However, ABC reported that the legal process could take months.

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