Afghan convert released from prison

KABUL, Afghanistan, March 28 (UPI) -- The Afghan who faced the death penalty for converting from Islam to Christianity has been freed from prison in Kabul.

Abdul Rahman had been acquitted of all charges, said Justice Minister Sarwar Danish.

Judge Ansarullah Mawlavizada also said there was considerable doubt that Rahman was fit to stand trial, as he appeared "disturbed," the BBC reported Tuesday.

Rahman was released from Kabul's main high-security prison late Monday and has been in the custody of Justice Ministry officials, the BBC reported Tuesday.

U.N. officials have been meeting to discuss Rahman's request for asylum, with a U.N. spokesman saying he expected a country "interested in a peaceful solution" would grant him asylum.

Rahman had lived outside Afghanistan for 16 years, during which time he reportedly converted. He was arrested two weeks ago after his parents went to the authorities after a family dispute, the Australian Broadcasting Corp. reported.

The case has aroused international attention, with many Western nations demanding that Afghanistan respect international laws on freedom of religion and human rights.

Pope Benedict XVI also asked for Rahman to be freed.