After Guantanamo, Nazir is discovering what it means to be free

Nazir Lep, who spent nearly two decades in the Guantanamo detention facility, has recently returned to Malaysia where he is discovering the true meaning of freedom. His new home, Teratak Pak Jay, named after his childhood nickname, is located in Kampung Jeram Masjid. The 50-year-old man is now engaged in daily activities such as raising livestock and tending to an oil palm plantation.

However, he admits that his newfound freedom has presented a new set of challenges. Nazir feels that prison felt like a second life, with its rigid routine and isolation. He has come to terms with the burdens that come with independence, including responsibility, fear, and the need to start over. During his ordeal, Nazir endured physical and psychological torture while in CIA custody.

He was held at a secret location where he was suspended by his hands for months and given only water. When he arrived at Guantanamo, he was cut off from the outside world, which further exacerbated his feelings of isolation. Despite these challenges, Nazir remains hopeful and confident that he can navigate his new life. He attributes his optimism to the support of his family, especially his brother Najib who built the house for him in Malaysia.

Reflecting on his time in detention, Nazir recalls the loss of time, as he was not allowed to communicate with his family until 2017. His darkest moments came when he almost lost hope of ever leaving prison, especially as a high-value detainee. However, he found solace in expressing his emotions through art, creating more than 10 pieces of artwork while in detention.

In December 2024, Nazir was flown out of the Guantanamo detention facility, a moment he describes as a dream come true.