MIAMI (AP) – The oldest prisoner at Guantanamo is getting his first chance to plead for release after nearly 13 years in U.S. custody.

Saifullah Paracha is a former businessman from Pakistan who authorities say provided financial and other assistance to al-Qaida. He was captured in Bangkok in 2003 and sent to the U.S. base in Cuba the following year. He was never charged.

The 68-year-old appeared Tuesday before a government board for a procedure similar to a parole hearing. If the Periodic Review Board decides Paracha no longer poses a threat, he would be eligible for release.

Attorney David Remes told the board Paracha has been a model prisoner who would return to his business and family in Pakistan if released.

The board isn’t expected to make an immediate decision.