Aadel Collection
Promotion and Protection of Human Rights: Human Rights Defenders
UNITED
NATIONS
Economic and Social
Council Distr.
GENERAL
E/CN.4/2005/l 01/Add. 1
16 March 2005
Original: ENGLISH / FRENCH!
SPANISH
COMK'IISSION ON HUMAN RIGHTS
Sixty-first session
Agenda item 17 (b) of the provisional agenda
PROMOTION AND PROTECTION OF HUMAN RIGHTS:
HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDERS
Report of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Hina Jilani
Addendum
Summary of cases transmitted to Governments and replies received*
*The present document is being circulated in the languages of submission only as it greatly
exceeds the page limitations currently imposed by the relevant General Assembly resolutions.
GE.05- 12965
E/CN.4/2005/10 1/Add. 1
Page 2
Contents
Paragraphs Pages
Introduction 1 — 4 4
Algeria 5 — 20 5
Argentina 21 —26 10
Armenia 27—29 12
Azerbaijan 30—37 13
Bahrain 38—49 15
Bangladesh 50—64 19
Belarus 65—77 23
Bolivia 78—79 30
Bosnia and Herzegovina 80 — 81 30
Brazil 82—91 30
Burundi 92— 93 34
Cambodia 94—95 35
Cameroon 96—97 35
Central African Republic 98 — 99 36
Chad 100— 102 36
Chile 103 — 108 37
China 109—138 39
Colombia 139—216 49
CostaRica 217—219 73
Côte d'Ivoire 220 — 223 74
Cuba 224—226 75
Democratic Republic of the Congo 227—235 76
Ecuador 236—246 79
Egypt 247—252 84
Ethiopia 253—258 86
France 259—267 88
Guatemala 268 —287 92
Haiti 288—291 100
Honduras 292—300 101
India 301—308 104
Indonesia 309—319 107
Iran (Islamic Republic of) 320—335 111
Iraq 336—337 116
Israel 338—340 117
Jamaica 341—343 118
Kazakhstan 344—345 119
Kyrgyzstan 346—348 120
Lebanon 349—351 121
Libyan Arab Jamahiriya 352—353 122
Malaysia 354—364 122
Maldives 365 —367 127
Mauritania 368—370 128
E/CN.4/2005/101/Add. 1
Page 3
Contents (continued)
Paragraphs Pages
Mexico 371—394 129
Morocco 395—401 137
Myanmar 402—403 139
Nepal 404—414 140
Nigeria 415—416 144
Pakistan 417—423 144
Peru 424—433 146
Philippines 434—437 151
Republic of Korea 438—440 153
Russian Federation 441 —466 154
Rwanda 467—468 164
Saudi Arabia 469—475 165
Serbia and Montenegro 476— 480 167
SriLanka 481—483 169
Sudan 484—505 170
Syrian Arab Republic 506— 517 177
Thailand 518—529 181
The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 530— 532 185
Tunisia 533—554 186
Turkey 555—578 194
Turkmenistan 579—581 202
United States of America 582— 584 203
Uzbekistan 585 — 599 205
Venezuela 600—601 210
VietNam 602—613 210
Zambia 614—617 214
Zimbabwe 618—628 215
E/CN.4/2005/10 1/Add. 1
Page 4
Introduction
1. The present document is submitted by the Special Representative of the Secretary
General on the situation of human rights defenders, Ms. Hina Jilani, to the Commission on
Human Rights pursuant to Commission resolution 2003/64. The document provides summaries
of the communications on specific cases addressed by the Special Representative to
Governments, as well as summaries of the replies by Governments that she has received and her
observations thereon.
2. In the past, such information had been included in an annex. Following up on a practice
adopted in her report to the Commission at its fifty-ninth session, the information on specific
cases raised by the Special Representative over the year is now published in an addendum to her
main report to the Commission at its sixty-first session (E/CN.4/2005/101).
3. The cases raised by the Special Representative in this addendum relate to cases reported
to her between 9 December 2003 and 9 December 2004. The addendum contains summaries of
responses received from Governments and, where necessary, translated up to and including 31
January 2005. Most of the responses by Governments refer to cases raised by the Special
Representative during the period December 2003 to December 2004; however, some of the
responses are to cases addressed by her in earlier reporting periods. While the summaries of
these responses are included in this report, the summaries of the cases to which they refer will be
found in the Special Representative's reports from preceding years (see E/CN.4/2003/104/Add.1
and E/CN.4/2004/94/Add.3, covering the previous two years).
4. For ease of reference, and as indicated in the table of contents, cases have been grouped
by country, with countries listed alphabetically according to their names in English.
E/CN.4/2005/101/Add. 1
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Algeria
Communications envoyées
5. Le 19 avril 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special sur
la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, a adresse une
communication au gouvernement concernant la situation de Mohammed Smain et Fethi Azzi,
deux temoins dans une information judiciaire ouverte en France contre deux membres des
milices de Relizane pour torture et actes de barbaric. Selon les informations reçues, la misc en
examen des deux accuses ferait suite a une plainte pour torture, actes de barbaric et crimes contre
l'humanite deposee en octobre 2003 devant le Procureur de la Republique du Tribunal de grande
instance de Nimes par la Federation internationale des ligues des droits de l'homme (FIDH) et la
Ligue française des droits de l'homme et du citoyen (LDH). Les deux accuses, aprés avoir etc
mis en examen le 30 mars 2004, auraient etc liberes et places sous contrOle judiciaire suite a la
decision dujuge des libertes et de la detention (JLD). Selon les informations reçues, Mohammed
SmaIn et Fethi Azzi subiraient des pressions et harcélements de la part des autorites depuis leur
retour de France au debut d'avril 2004 oü ils auraient temoigne devant lejuge d'instruction. En
particulier, le S avril 2004, alors qu'il reprenait son travail a la sous-prefecture, Fethi Azzi se
serait vu signifier son renvoi. M. Azzi aurait depuis etc reintegre aprés avoir etc degrade et mute
dans un autre service de la sous-prefecture. Ii aurait d'autre part reçu des menaces a Jdiouia oü il
reside, pour avoir temoigne dans l'affaire des deux presumes miliciens. Selon les informations
reçues, Mohammed SmaIn, representant de la section de Relizane de la Ligue algerienne de
defense des droits de l'homme (LADDH), aurait etc arrete par le groupement de gendarmerie de
Relizane le samedi 10 avril 2004 alors qu'il se trouvait en compagnie dejournalistes enquêtant
sur les disparitions forcees et detenu pendant 20 heures. Dimanche matin, le colonel
commandant du groupement de gendarmerie lui aurait signifie qu'il serait poursuivi pour outrage
a corps constitue et aurait refuse de lui rendre ses papiers de voiture. SmaIn aurait alors demande
une audience au Procureur general, cc qui lui aurait etc refuse.
6. Le 27 mai 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special sur
la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, a envoyc une
communication concernant le directeur du quotidien << Le Matin >>, Mohamed Benchicou, pour
lequel un appel urgent avait etc envoyc par le Rapporteur special sur la protection et la
promotion du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression le 4 avril 2002. Selon les informations
reçues, Mohamed Benchicou aurait du comparaitre le 31 mai 2004 devant le tribunal d'El
Harrach, dans le cadre d'une affaire qui l'oppose au Ministére des finances. Selon les
informations reçues, lejournal << Le Matin >> aurait etc suspendu le 18 aoüt 2003, en méme temps
que quatre autres quotidiens independants. Le 23 aoüt 2003, revenant d'un voyage, Mohamed
Benchicou aurait etc interpelle a l'aeroport d'Alger par des policiers qui lui auraient indique
vouloir fouiller son porte-documents et ses bagages. Les policiers auraient photocopie ses
papiers personnels avant de les lui rendre. En depit du fait que, par lettre du 25 aoüt 2003, le
directeur general des douanes algeriennes ait averti le gouvernement algerien de la nullite de la
procedure frappant M. Benchicou et de l'absence d'infraction, lejour suivant, M. Benchicou
aurait etc entendu pour transfert illegal de capitaux, et le 27 aoüt 2003, le Procureur de la
Republique aurait exige qu'il soit place sous mandat de depot. Lejuge d'instruction n'aurait
toutefois retenu que le contrOle judiciaire et aurait confisque le passeport de Mohamed
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Benchicou qui serait soumis depuis lors a une interdiction de quitter le territoire et astreint a se
presenter au juge d'instruction toutes les semaines. Scion ies informations reçues, ie 31 mai
2004, ie magistrat devrait juger i'affaire et statuer sur ia ievee du controiejudiciaire qui frappe
Mohamed Benchicou depuis 8 mois. Des craintes ont etc exprimees que ies procedures a
i'encontre de M. Benchicou et du journai <> ne constituent une forme de represaillies
de ia part du Ministére de i'interieur pour avoir fait paraitre enjuiiiiet 2003 un articie dans iequei
un citoyen aigerien aurait denonce ies tortures qu'ii aurait subies mettant en cause ie Ministre de
i'interieur iui-même. Ces craintes sont d'autant pius vives que ie ministre mis en cause aurait
pubhquement menace <> et son directeur.
7. Le 28 mai 2004, ia Representante speciaie, conjointement avec ie Rapporteur speciai sur
ia promotion et ia protection du droit a ia iiberte d'opinion et d'expression, avec ie Groupe de
travaii sur ia detention arbitraire, ia Rapporteuse speciaie sur ies executions extrajudiciaires,
sommaires ou arbitraires, a envoyc une communication concernant ia situation de M. llafnoui El
Ghoul, responsabie de ia Ligue aigerienne de defense des droits de i'homme (LADDH) a Djeifa
et correspondant de presse. Scion ies informations reçues, ie 24 mai 2004, M. E l Ghoui aurait etc
arête par des pohciers en civii se depiaçant en voiture banahsee. Ii aurait etc conduit depuis son
domiciie jusqu'â une ceiiuie oü ii serait depuis iors enferme. Cette detention interviendrait dans
ie cadre de i'instruction de piusieurs piaintes pour diffamation deposees contre iui, notamment
par ie prefet et ie directeur de ia sante pubhque de Djeifa, a ia suite d'un entretien qu'ii aurait
donne au quotidien nationai << Le Soir >>, date du 17 mai 2004, oü ii aurait denonce ia situation
des droits de i'homme en generai, et ceiie des journaiistes en particuher dans ia region de Djeifa.
Scion ies informations reçues ie 25 mai 2004, M. Ghoui aurait etc presente devant ie juge du
tribunai de Djeifa et condamne a six mois de prison ferme au sujet d'une quatriême piainte. Ses
avocats n'auraient pas eu connaissance de cette audience ni de i'objet de ia piainte en question.
Le 26 mai, sa famiiiie aurait etc empechee de iui rendre visite. M. E l Ghoui aurait entame une
gréve de ia faim. Des craintes ont etc exprimees que son arrestation ne represente une forme de
represaillies contre ses activites de defense des droit de i'homme. Ces craintes sont d'autant pius
vives que iors d'une convocation au commissariat de Djeifa, ie 15 mai 2004, M. El Ghoui aurait
reçu des menaces de mort exphcites, visant egaiement sa famiiie s'ii continuait a << s'entêter >>.
8. Le 7juin 2004, ia Representante speciaie, conjointement avec ie Rapporteur speciai sur ia
promotion et ia protection du droit a ia iiberte d'opinion et d'expression, ie Groupe de travaii sur
ia detention arbitraire, ie Rapporteur speciai sur ia torture et ia Rapporteuse speciaie chargee de
ia question de ia vioience contre ies femmes, a envoyc une communication concernant ia
situation des personnes qui auraient été arrêtées pour avoir manifesté dans Ia region des
Aurés et pour iesqueis ies Rapporteurs speciaux sur ia promotion et ia protection du droit a ia
hberte d'opinion et d'expression, ia torture, ies executions extrajudiciaires, sommaires ou
arbitraires ainsi que ie vice-president du Groupe de travaii sur ia detention arbitraire avaient
envoyc un appei urgent ie 24 mai 2004. Scion ies informations reçues, ies 24 et 31 mai 2004,
vingt-neufpersonnes arretees auraient comparu devant ie tribunai d'Arris et auraient etc
condamnees pour attroupements, incitation a attroupement, diffusion de tracts et atteinte aux
biens d'autrui, avec ies peines suivantes : Meziani Fouzi (8 mois), Beziane Abdelouahab
(6 mois), Abassi Rachid (6 mois), Daoudi Essaid (6 mois), Aichi ilessane (8 mois), Yeza
Abdes lam (8 mois), Titaouine Salim (8 mois), Lounissi Abdelkrim (6 mois), Yakoub
Abderrezak, (8 mois), Zerdoumi Abde lmadjid (6 mois), Chatri Khaled (3 mois), Saidi
Rachid (6 mois), Berbachi Ali (3 mois), Kerbai Samir (3 mois), Kerbai Mohamed Tayeb
E/CN.4/2005/1O1/Add. 1
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(3 mois), Meziani Karim (3 mois), Gharik Ahcene (3 mois), Bezala Essaid (3 mois), Yeza
Salim (8 mois), Megharmi djamel (1 an), Boussetta Abdenacer (8 mois), Djouara Djamel
(8 mois), Yeza Mohamed (3 mois), Khellafi Toufik (3 mois), Agali Abderrezak (3 mois),
Titaouine A u (6 mois), Bezala A u (6 mois), Lounissi Tahar (3 mois), Zerdoumi Amar
(6 mois). Les jeunes gens arrêtes, pendant les manifestations ou a leur domicile, auraient etc
conduits dans des vehicules militaires a l'ancienne prison coloniale, lieu de cantonnement de la
gendarmerie de Tkout oü ils auraient etc deshabilles et alignes avant d'être tortures et soumis a
des agressions sexuelles, insultes et coups de matraque. Certains auraient eu des membres brises
et le visage balafre suite aux coups que leur auraient portes les gendarmes. Des menaces de viol
sur les sieurs et méres des detenus auraient egalement etc proferees. En raison de la couverture
mediatique des evenements, et notamment des temoignages dans la presse relatant les tortures
subies, une enquête aurait etc conduite le 26 mai par des fonctionnaires du Ministére de la justice
dependant de la cour de Batna. Ceux-ci auraient conclu a l'absence de torture en depit du fait que
neuf des jeunes gens arrêtes auraient reitere les declarations faites a la presse. En outre, des
craintes ont etc exprimees que ces enquêtes n'aient pas etc conduites de maniêre independante et
impartiale. Dans une lettre ouverte adressee au chef de l'Etat algerien, le procureur adjoint de la
cour de Batna (dont depend Tkout) aurait denonce les <> qu'il aurait subis dans l'exercice de ses fonctions et que subiraient tous les
magistrats >. L'auteur de la lettre mettrait directement en cause un officier superieur
de l'armee. Ii nous a egalement etc rapporte que plusieurs dizaines de membres du mouvement
citoyen de Tkout, qui auraient fui pour se refugier dans les montagnes environnantes, seraient
toujours contraints de vivre dans la clandestinite en raison de la surveillance dont leurs domiciles
feraient l'objet. Unimportant dispositif policier serait toujours en place dans le village de Tkout
et les parents et membres des familles de ceux ayant fui feraient quotidiennement l'objet de
menaces et d'intimidations, y compris des menaces de viol sur les femmes. Des craintes ont etc
exprimees que cette repression, y compris les condamnations des jeunes gens ayant participe aux
manifestations, ne vise a reprimer les mouvements citoyens luttant pour le respect de leurs droits,
notamment aprés que le mouvement citoyen de Tkout aurait presente en mars dernier une plate-
forme de revendications sociocconomiques, culturelles et linguistiques aux autorites locales et
regionales.
9. Le l4juin 2004, la Representante speciale a envoyc un appel urgent concernant la
situation de Salah-Eddine Sidhoum, chirurgien et militant des droits de l'homme en Algerie,
qui avait fait l'objet d'un appel urgent du Rapporteur special sur la promotion et la protection du
droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, du Rapporteur special sur la torture et de la
Representante speciale sur les defenseurs des droits de l'homme le 2 octobre 2003 qui se verrait
refuser l'etablissement d'un passeport lui permettant de circuler librement. Selon de nouvelles
informations, le 26 janvier 2004, Salah-Eddine Sidhoum aurait depose un dossier de
renouvellement de son passeport a la daIra (sous-prefecture) de Sidi M'Hamed (Alger). A chaque
fois qu'il se serait presente au guichet de cette administration, il lui aurait etc repondu que la
fiche de police n'etait pas encore revenue du commissariat de Cavaignac, siege de la police
judiciaire. Fin mai, plus de quatre mois aprCs le depot de sa demande, le prepose au guichet de la
daIra lui aurait repondu que la police judiciaire avait emis un avis defavorable pour la delivrance
d'un passeport sans lui indiquer ni verbalement ni par ecrit le motif de cc reflis, alors que la loi
stipulerait que l'administration doit signifier par ecrit le motif du reflis, et cc dans un delai de un
mois aprCs le dePOt du dossier. En outre, lors de la restitution de son dossier par le prepose de la
daIra, M. Sidhoum aurait constate que deux photos d'identite manquaient. D c serieuses craintes
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ont etc exprimees que cc refus d'octroyer un passeport a Salah-Eddine Sidhoum a
l'empêcher de poursuivre son travail de defenseur des droits de l'homme en l'empêchant de
quitter le territoire algerien afin de reduire ses mouvements et ses contacts sur le plan
international.
10. Le 9 aoüt 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special sur
la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, le Groupe de travail
sur la detention arbitraire, a envoyc une communication de suivi concernant M. llafnaoui
Ghoul, detenu t la prison de Djelfa depuis le 24 mai 2004. Selon les nouvelles informations
reçues, le 2 aoüt 2004, le tribunal de premiere instance de Djelfa aurait condamne M. Hafnaoui
Ghoul a deux mois de prison ferme, pour << sortie illegale d'un document de prison >>. Cette
condamnation serait en relation avec la publication dans le quotidien <>
d'une lettre que M. Ghoul aurait envoyce a sa fille le 24juin, et dans laquelle il s'exprimait sur
sa situation juridique et sa detention. Des craintes ont etc exprimees que cette nouvelle
condamnation ne vise a nouveau a sanctionner la liberte d'expression de Hafnaoui Ghoul. Ces
craintes sont d'autant plus vives que, depuis plusieurs mois, une quinzaine de plaintes ont etc
deposees contre M. Ghoul pour << diffamation et atteinte a un corps constitue >>. Trois procCs sont
en cours, dont plusieurs audiences ont deja etc reportees.
11. Le 23 septembre 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur
special sur la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression et la
Rapporteuse speciale sur la question de la violence contre les femmes, a envoyc une
communication concernant un rassemblement pacifique des familles de disparus de Constantine
ayant eu lieu le 20 septembre 2004 devant le siege provisoire du Comite ad hoc sur les disparus a
Constantine qui aurait etc disperse par la violence par les forces de l'ordre, lesquelles auraient
egalement procede a des arrestations. D'aprCs les informations reçues, M. ilmamlia, qui tentait
de venir en aide aux personnes malmenees par la police, aurait etc arrete et conduit au poste de
police avant d'être libere quelques heures plus tard. Mme Farida Oughlissi, mere de disparu,
aurait etc frappee. Son corps serait marque par de nombreuses ecchymoses. Mme Louisa Saker,
Secretaire generale de l'Association des familles de disparus de Constantine, aurait, quant a elle,
etc interpellee et emmenee par des elements de la Brigade mobile de la police judiciaire (BMPJ)
et detenue a la caserne de la police judiciaire de la zone Palma a Constantine. Ni les membres de
sa famille, ni son avocat n'auraient etc autorises a lui rendre visitejusqu'a sa liberation dans la
soiree. Durant sa detention, Louisa Saker n'aurait pas etc informee des motifs de son arrestation
et aurait fait l'objet d'actes d'intimidation. Au moyen d'un couteau et d'une bombe
lacrymogCne, celle-ci aurait etc menacee par des agents des services des Renseignements
generaux d'être inculpee pour troubles a l'ordre public avant d'être relachee dans la soiree sans
qu'aucune charge n'ait etc retenue contre elle. Suite a sa liberation, un medecin aurait pu
constater les traces sur son corps des violences subies lors du dispersement du rassemblement. Ii
a egalement etc rapporte que Mme Louisa Saker avait deja fait l'objet d'actes d'intimidation le
5 novembre 2003 de la part de deux inspecteurs des services des Renseignements generaux.
L'arrestation et la detention de Mme Saker et M. Hmamlia ainsi que les methodes utilisees pour
disperser une manifestation pacifique sont d'autant plus preoccupantes que la police aurait deja
arête des membres des familles de disparus et fait usage de violence a leur encontre lors de
rassemblements a Constantine le 8 novembre 2001, a Alger le 5 novembre 2002, eta Oran le 9
juillet 2003. S'agissant de Mme Saker, des craintes ont etc exprimees que celle-ci n'ait etc visee
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Page 9
en particulier, en raison de ses nombreuses prises de position critiques quant a la gestion du
dossier des disparus par les autorites algeriennes.
Communications reçues
12. Par lettre en date du 18 juin 2004, le Gouvernement a repondu ala communication en
date du 19 avril concernant Mohamed Smail et Fethi Azzi. Concernant Mohamed Smail, le
Gouvernement a indique qu'il avait etc interpelle le 10 avril 2004 sur les instructions du
procureur de Relizane par la gendarmerie nationale alors qu'il se trouvait en voiture avec un
journaliste etranger en possession d'une camera et effectuant un reportage sans autorisation. Les
deux personnes auraient etc conduites ala brigade avant d'être relachees. Les documents de son
vehicule lui auraient etc retires puis rendus. Concernant Fethi Azzi, le Gouvernement a indique
qu'il n'auraitjamais etc arrête et qu'il n'aurait pas saisi les services de police en cc qui concerne
les menaces alleguces. Le Gouvernement ne peut de cc fait faire de commentaire.
13. Par lettre en date du 16 juillet 2004, le Gouvernement algerien a repondu a l'appel urgent
envoyc le 27 mai 2004 concernant la situation de Mohamed Benchicou, objet d'accusation de
transfert illegal de capitaux. Le Gouvernement a informe la Representante speciale que le l4juin
2004, l'interesse aurait etc condamne a deux ans de prison ainsi qu'a une amende de
23 400 000 DA, une somme qui correspond a deux fois la valeur du delit commis. Le
Gouvernement a affirme avoir agi selon son droit interne et precise que personne, en dehors du
juge, ne pouvait contester la mesure.
14. Par lettre en date du 16 juillet 2004, le Gouvernement a repondu a l'appel urgent envoyc
par la Representante speciale le 28 mai 2004, l'informant que le 9juin 2004 llafnaoui Ghoul a
etc condamne a 2 mois d'emprisonnement pour les delits de diffamation, outrage et injures. Le
Gouvernement a affirme que, conformement a la loi, l'interesse aurait reçu la visite de son pére
et de son frére, mais pas de son oncle. Le Gouvernement a egalement precise que l'interesse
prendrait reguliêrement ses repas et se trouverait en bonne sante. Par lettre supplementaire du 24
novembre 2004, le Gouvernement a confirme que le jour-même la decision de la cour de Djelfa
aurait ordonne la liberation de M. Hafnaoui El Ghoul en application de l'article 128 du Code de
procedure penale.
15. Par lettre en date du 16 juillet 2004, le Gouvernement a repondu a l'appel urgent envoyc
par la Representante speciale le 7juin 2004 concernant les vingt-huit personnes condamnees
pour attroupements et atteintes aux biens d'autrui. Le Gouvernement a souligne que le jugement
du tribunal le 31 mai 2004 aurait etc plus ou moms soutenu par la cour de Batna le 20 juin 2004,
laquelle aurait confirme la peine prononcee contre vingt-trois d'entre eux et aurait declare la
relaxe des cinq autres. En cc qui concerne les accusations de mauvais traitements pendant la
garde a vue (il faut noter que ces accusations n'auraient etc deposees qu'a la deuxiême
audience), le Gouvernement a informe que les certificats medicaux au terme de la garde a vue
n'auraient pas fait mention de mauvais traitements. Neanmoins, le Ministre de lajustice a
ordonne une enquête, qui aurait conclu a la faussete des allegations.
16. Par lettre en date du 9juillet 2004, le Gouvernement a repondu aux appels urgents
envoycs par la Representante speciale le 14 juin 2004 et le 2 octobre 2003 l'informant que le
passeport de Salah Eddine Sidhoum aurait etc renouvele et remis a l'interesse le 4 juillet 2004
E/CN.4/2005/10 1/Add. 1
Page 10
aprés accomplissement des formalites légales d'usage relatives a la délivrance d'un document de
voyage.
Observations
17. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its replies. She welcomes the
issuance of a passport to Dr. Sidhoum and the release of Mr. Ghoul. In the light of the case of
Mr. Ghoul, however, the Special Representative recalls that the law of defamation requires
legislators to strike a delicate balance between the protection of freedom of speech — particularly
where this freedom is exercised in the defence of human rights — and the interests of the persons
who are the subject of derogatory speech, in this case government officials. The Special
Representative invites the Government to consider whether the possibility to resort to a measure
as harsh as pre-trial detention for persons charged with defamation, as in the case of Mr. Ghoul,
correctly strikes that balance.
18. The Special Representative regrets that the Government has not, as of to date, clarified
the circumstances of the alleged harassment by the authorities of Mr. SmaIn and Mr. Azzi
(including arrest, detention, and demotion in civil service), which is reported to be in reprisal for
their testimony in a torture case, nor indicated what action it intends to take to remedy these
serious violations should they prove to be true.
19. Regarding the case of Mr. Benchicou, the Special Representative has carefhlly
considered the Government's explanation regarding the judicial proceedings that resulted in his
conviction. She remains concerned, however, by the closure of LeMatin on the same day as four
other newspapers and a few weeks after the publication of an article implying a minister in
torture allegations, which was followed by the arrest of Mr. Benchicou five days later.
20. Similarly, in the case of the human rights defenders from Tkout, the Special
Representative regrets that the Government's reply has not been able to entirely dispel her
concerns. The Special Representative invites the Government to review, in the light of the rights
to freedom of expression and to freedom of peacefhl assembly and association, the provision of
the criminal code making “attroupement” punishable. The Special Representative also invites the
Government to consider whether enquiries into allegations of torture against security forces
could not be entrusted to a body offering substantial guarantees of independence from the
executive power, instead of the Ministry of Justice. This could contribute to enhancing the
enjoyment by the citizens of Algeria of article 12 of the Declaration on Human Rights
Defenders. The Special Representative observes that the allegations reported to her with regard
to the case of Ms. Saker and other members of the Association des familles de disparus de
Constantine confirm the urgency of such measure.
Argentina
Comunicaciones enviadas
21. El 12 de agosto de 2004, la Representante Especial enviô un llamamiento urgente con
respecto a la muerte de MartIn Cisneros, piquetero y dirigente de la organizaciôn Federacion de
Tierra y Vivienda. Segün las informaciones recibidas, el 25 de junio, Martin Cisneros habria
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recibido varios disparos de arma de fuego a! salir de su trabajo en la Unidad de Produccion
Social del Comedor “Los Pibes”en el barrio de La Boca en Buenos Aires. D c acuerdo con las
informaciones, MartIn Cisneros habria sido matado a dos cuadras de distancia de la ComisarIa de
Policia por un hombre conocido como informante y quien se alega también recibe protecciôn
policial. Se indica que el 28 de Junio el supuesto informante, Junto con un menor de edad,
habrian sido detenidos por la policia en relacion con la muerte de Sr. Cisneros.
22. El 30 de agosto de 2004, la Representante Especial enviô una carta de alegacion, Junto
con el Relator Especial sobre la promociôn y protecciôn de la libertad de expresiôn y opinion, y
el Relator Especial sobre la tortura, en relaciOn con Juan Eduardo Riquel, secretario de la
AsociaciOn de Trabajadores del Estado (ATE), de la localidad de Castelli, provincia de Chaco.
Habria sido detenido el 4 de Julio de 2004 por personal de la comisaria de Castelli. Se alega que
ese mismo dia un grupo de policias ingresO en el Club Sarmiento de Castelli, donde se celebraba
una fiesta popular, y empezO a golpear miembros de la comunidad Toba. Juan Eduardo Riquel
habria solicitado a los policias que detuvieran la agresiOn. Poco después, el mismo grupo de
policias habria vuelto a! Club Sarmiento, y habrIan increpado directamente a Juan Eduardo
Riquel por haber intercedido en defensa de las personas que habian sido golpeadas. El secretario
de la ATE habria sido esposado, golpeado y llevado a la comisarIa, donde habria sido objeto de
actos de violencia y malos tratos. En las dependencias policiales, el detenido habria manifestado
espasmos respiratorios y dificultades para respirar, supuestamente debidos a! trato recibido en la
comisaria. Habria sido conducido a! Sanatorio Norte de la localidad. Tras examinar a! detenido y
escuchar su relato, los medicos se habrian negado a entregarlo de nuevo a la policia. Cuando se
recuperO, Juan Eduardo Riquel habrIa presentado una denuncia ala Fiscalia de Investigaciones.
Se alega que seguidamente se habrIa iniciado un proceso en contra del denunciante por “atentado
y resistencia a la autoridad”. Se alega igualmente que Juan Eduardo Riquel habria recibido
amenazas por parte de algunos policias por haber denunciado el caso.
23. El 17 de septiembre de 2004, la Representante Especial enviO una carta de alegaciOn,
Junto con el Relator Especial sobre la promociOn y protecciOn de la libertad de expresiOn y
opiniOn sobre los periodistas Fabian Rubino, de Radio Mitre, llernán Espafla, de Diarlo
Popular, y Juan Arias, del Crónica. Segün la informaciOn recibida, el 25 de enero de 2002,
estos periodistas habrian sido agredidos por agentes de la policia mientras habrian informado
sobre la represiOn policial durante una manifestaciOn de protesta en la Plaza de Mayo, en la
ciudad de Buenos Aires. Se informa que Hernán Espafla habria recibido nueve balas de goma en
el brazo y se alega que a! caer a! suelo un policia le habria dado patadas mientras le habria dicho
“tpor qué no sacas fotos ahora?”.
Comunicaciones recibidas
24. Por carta fechada el 15 de octubre de 2004, el Gobierno contestO ala comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 30 de agosto de 2004 con respecto a los actos de
hostigamiento y maltratos sufridos por Juan Eduardo Riquel. El Gobierno informO que una
investigaciOn habria sido iniciada, a travCs de la cual se estableceria silas presuntas violaciones
hubieran ocurrido. Hasta ahora, habr la tomado una declaraciOn testimonial del damnificado y se
habria comprometido a disponer la custodia del mismo. El Gobierno declarO seguir atento a!
resultado de las investigaciones e informar oportunamente a la Representante Especial.
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Seguimiento de comunicaciones transmitidas previamente
25. Por carta de fecha del 19 de marzo de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 6 de noviembre de 2003 sobre la situaciôn de la Dra.
Maria Dolores Gómez y del Dr. Fernando Maroto. El Gobierno confirmo la necesidad de
proteger la vida y la integridad fisica de ambas personas y de responder a la denuncia presentada.
En particular, con respecto a Maria Dolores Gômez, la Secretaria de Derechos Humanos habria
mantenido contacto permanente y habria realizado visitas con ella, asi se podria ocuparse de
todas las gestiones necesarias y pertinentes de la citada ciudadana. Asimismo, ci Gobierno
acentüa las medidas cautelares que habria otorgado a favor de los peticionarios desde junio de
2001, antes de recibir las solicitudes de la Comisiôn Interamericana de Derechos Humanos
(CIDH) y de las Naciones Unidas. El 7 de diciembre de 2003, ademas de recibir la custodia de
la Gendarmeria en su domicilio particular, Dr. Maria Dolores Gômez habria recibido la custodia
de la Policia Federal Argentina desde su domicilio hasta la sede de la Defensoria. El Gobierno
confirmo que una denuncia de la amenaza, con referencia a la Dra. Maria Dolores Gômez y al
Dr. Fernando Maroto, habria sido presentada ante la Fiscal del Departamento Judicial de San
Isidro. La investigacionjuridica continuará segün su curso normal.
Observations
26. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its response. She commends the
Government's willingness to implement protective measures for human rights defenders at risk.
She looks forward to receiving further informations regarding the findings of the ongoing
investigations, in particular those relating to allegations of excessive use of force by members of
the police.
Armenia
Communications sent
27. On 26 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a letter of
allegation regarding the situation of Mikael Danielyan, Chairman of the Armenian Helsinki
Association, an organization which monitors and reports on human rights in Armenia. According
to the information received, an article appeared in two national newspapers on 30 March 2004,
accusing Mikael Danielyan of anti-State activities. The articles reportedly referred to the fact that
he had carried out an interview with an Azerbaijani newspaper expressing critical views of the
Government that was published on 26 March. According to the information received, on the
same day, Mikael Danielyan was attacked by four assailants near his home in Yerevan. The
assailants allegedly knocked him to the ground and beat him for approximately 10 minutes after
which they allegedly fled. It was further reported that he was taken to hospital in a critical
condition but that a thorough forensic examination was not conducted. Concern has been
expressed that Mikael Danielyan may have been targeted for his human rights activities,
including submitting and disseminating information on human rights abuses in Armenia for
inclusion in international human rights reports.
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Communications received
28. By letter dated 8 August 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by the
Special Representative on 26 April 2004 concerning an alleged assault on Mikael Danielyan by
four unidentified persons. In its response, the Government informed the Special Representative
that the following day, 31 March 2004, the police in Arabkir opened a criminal file on the
aforementioned event and proceeded to undertake the necessary investigative steps. In that
context, the victim was invited to undergo forensic and medical examination, but he refused and
arrangements were made to conduct this procedure at the victim's home. The medical
examination carried out on the victim reportedly showed that he had sustained several minor
concussions and abrasions. As part of the investigation, the victim was also asked to supply the
clothes he was wearing at the time of the alleged crime. The Government stated that he refused
to do so, and later commented that he had already washed the clothes. The Government indicated
that although all necessary and possible means of investigation have been explored, to date, they
have failed to yield any positive results. The investigation is continuing.
Observations
29. The Special Representative would like to thank the Government for responding to her
communication. She looks forward to receiving further information on the findings of the
ongoing investigations.
Azerbaijan
Communications sent
30. On 22 December 2003, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
action about information received regarding Ilgar Ibragimoglu Allahverdiev, leader and
coordinator of the Center for the Protection of Conscience and Religious Freedoms (DEVAMM)
and secretary-general of the International Religious Liberty Association (IRLA Azerbaijan), who
was reportedly arrested on 3 December 2003 and detained for a three-month period on the orders
of the Nasimi district court of Baku. According to information received, the court hearing was
extremely short and his lawyers were not heard. It is reported that Mr. Ibragimoglu Allahverdiev
was accused of disturbing public order and resisting representatives of the authorities in the
aftermath of the presidential elections on 16 October 2003 (see communication dated 22 October
2003 sent by the Special Rapporteur the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of
opinion and expression, the Special Rapporteur on torture and the Chairperson-Rapporteur of the
Working Group on Arbitrary Detention). It is alleged that this action might be directly linked to
the participation of DEVAMM in the work of “Bizim Azerbaijan”, a democratic coalition of
around 30 political parties and NGOs supporting the candidacy of Isa Qmbar, the chairman of
the opposition party Musavat. It is also reported that there have been acts of harassment against
the members of the committee created for protection of Mr. Ibragimoglu Allahverdiev's rights,
composed notably of members of DEVAMM and IRLA, which was created after his arrest.
According to reports, in the evening of 4 December, approximately at the same time in different
parts of Baku, the home of DEVAMM's press-secretary, Mr. Seymur Rashidov, as well as the
home of DEVAMM's driver, Mr. Shahin Gasanov, were visited by the staff of the local police
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departments, who without showing any official written document, reportedly asked them to come
to the police department. As Mr. Rashidov was not at home at that time, the policemen allegedly
called him on his mobile phone and told him to be the next morning at 9 a.m. at the 27th police
department of Yasamal district. Mr. Rashidov was summoned to the prosecutor's office on 11
December, where he was interrogated and released.
31. On 30 January 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal in connection with the situation of the Muslim religious community of the Juma
Mosque, which is reportedly threatened with eviction. According to the information received, on
16 January 2004, the Juma Mosque community was allegedly informed by a letter from the
Administration of the Historical Architectural Reserve Icherisheher of Baku that, based on
information received from the General Prosecutor's Office, they would be required to hand over
the Mosque to the “appropriate authorities” within 15 days. The letter reportedly mentioned the
arrest of their imam Ilgar Ibragimoglu Allahverdiev for his alleged participation in post-election
demonstrations as the ground for this decision. According to the information received, two
additional letters were attached to this letter. The first, reportedly from the Prosecutor's office
and addressed to the executive branch of the Baku City Administration, allegedly contained
details of Ilgar Ibragimoglu's supposed guilt. The second, reportedly from the Executive Branch
of Baku City, stated its intention to re-transform the Juma Mosque premises into a carpet
museum as it used to be during Soviet times. Concern has been expressed that the fhture eviction
of the religious community may be a form of reprisal against the work of Ilgar Ibragimoglu in
defending human rights.
32. On 1 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-up
urgent appeal regarding Ilgar Ibragimoglu Allahverdiev. According to new information
received, following the court proceedings, which took place from 22 to 31 March 2004, the
prosecution reportedly requested a prison sentence of four years and six months against Ilgar
Ibragimoglu. The final verdict was reportedly due on 2 April 2004. Concern has been expressed
that the court proceedings and heavy sentence requested against Ilgar Ibragimoglu may represent
a form of reprisal against his human rights activities, in particular in the field of freedom of
religion.
33. On 28 September 2004, the Special Representative sent a follow-up letter of allegation
concerning Ilgar Ibrahimoglu Allahverdiev. According to the information received, on 12
September 2004, Ilgar Ibrahimoglu Allahverdiev was reportedly forbidden to leave the country
by authorities at the Baku airport, as he was leaving to participate in a conference on tolerance
and non-discrimination organized in Brussels on 13 and 14 September 2004 by the Organization
for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and the Belgian Foreign Ministry. Concern has
been expressed that the reported denial of permission of Ilgar Ibrahimoglu Allahverdiev to leave
the country may be an attempt to prevent him from pursuing his human rights activities.
Communications received
34. By letters dated 1 April, 27 May and 9 August 2004, the Government replied to the
communications sent by the Special Representative on 30 January and 1 April 2004 concerning
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Page 15
the disputed occupation of a building by members of the Juma Mosque religious community.
Referring to the recent verdicts, the Government informed the Special Representative that on 1
March 2004, after a fair and proper hearing, the court ruled against the Juma Mosque religious
community. This decision was upheld by the Court of Appeal and entered into force on 22 April
2004. The Government stressed that during the course of the trial, the defendants had failed to
present adequate documentation to support the claim that they had been legally granted use of
the disputed building. The Government also emphasized that this particular religious community
had repeatedly demonstrated reluctance to register with the State Committee on Religious
Organizations and had persistently refused to comply with two paragraphs of the Religion Act; to
obtain the prerequisite recommendation from the Caucasian Muslim Board and to provide a legal
address. According to the regulation, seemingly only registered bodies could be permitted the
use of the building in question. In connection with the criminal case against Ilgar Ibragimoglu
Allakhverdiev in which he has been charged with mass disturbance and resistance or violence
towards a police officer, the Government confirmed that the defendant had been handed down a
five-year suspended sentence and had been placed on probation for a further five years by the
Serious Crimes Court. The decision of the Court of Appeal is currently pending.
35. By letter dated 24 December 2004, the Government replied to the letter of allegation sent
on 28 September 2004 concerning Ilgar Ibrahimoglu Allahverdiev. Unfortunately, the English
translation was not available in time to be examined and included in this report, and will thus be
reported next year.
Observations
36. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its replies to her communications.
She regrets that for the reasons mentioned above, she is not in a position to make observations on
the case of Mr. Allahverdiev.
37. Regarding the related case of the Juma Mosque religious community, the Special
Representative acknowledges that the Government's position in this case was upheld in court
proceedings. She remains concerned, however, that the legislation regulating non-governmental
organizations in Azerbaijan, including religious associations, might be open to misuse by
authorities acting in reprisal against human rights defenders.
Bahrain
Communications sent
38. On 7 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent action
regarding AbduiraufAl-Shayeb, the official spokesperson of the National Committee for
Martyrs and Victims of Torture, an organization that works on the rehabilitation of torture
victims and at bringing the perpetrators to justice. It is reported that on 30 March 2004,
Abdulrauf Al-Shayeb was arrested and held until 3 April, when he was released reportedly on the
orders of the Office of the Crown Prince. Abdulrauf Al-Shayeb was allegedly charged with
“immoral indecency” in connection with allegations of having extra-marital relations with a
domestic worker, who was allegedly forced to accuse him of having had relations with her. It is
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reported that this person is being kept in detention. However, it is believed that Abdulrauf Al-
Shayeb was targeted for his human rights work. It is reported that he was in Geneva from 15 to
28 March 2004 to attend events related to the sixtieth session of the Commission for Human
Rights. Concern has been expressed that his arrest might have been timed in order to prevent him
from organizing a demonstration on behalf of survivors of torture, which he had called to
coincide with the inaugural Bahrain Grand Prix on 4 April. Moreover, it is alleged that during his
detention, a former high-level military officer (whose name is known to the Special
Rapporteurs), who had allegedly been accused by the National Committee for Martyrs and
Victims of Torture of being involved in the torture of detainees, threatened to “cut his tongue,
which is too long”. Abdulrauf Al-Shayeb is reportedly expected to present himself to the Public
Prosecutor on 7 April.
39. On 1 October 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on torture, transmitted an urgent appeal regarding the Bahrain Centre for iluman
Rights (BCIIR) and its executive director, Abdul-iladi AI-Khawaja. It is reported that on 26
September 2004, two days after his participation in a symposium called “Poverty and Economic
Rights in Bahrain” organized by BCHR in the Al-Orooba Club, Abdul-Hadi Al-Khawaja was
arrested at approximately 10.30 p.m. at the Nabee Saleh police station to where he had been
summoned. According to the information received he was later brought to the Howdh Aljaf
Detention Centre where the Public Prosecutor remanded him in custody for a period of 45 days.
It is reported that he started a hunger strike, which he later stopped; however, reports indicate
that he is still continuing with his speech strike. Abdul-Hadi Al-Khawaja was allegedly charged
under articles 165 and 168 of the Bahraini penal code with “encouraging hatred of the State” and
“distributing falsehoods and rumours”, for which he could face up to five years imprisonment.
Abdul-Hadi Al-Khawaja is allegedly being held in incommunicado detention and has been
denied visits from his family and lawyer. Further reports indicate that the Al-Orooba Club was
officially closed down by the Government for having hosted this event. On 28 September 2004,
the BCHR was reportedly closed by the authority of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs.
Furthermore, according to the information received, the newspapers were informed of the closure
of BCHR before itsdirectors and members. It is also reported that on 29 September 2004, the
Minister of Labour and Social Affairs issued a press release, in which he declared that he had
issued an order to dissolve the BCHR the night before, the order coming into force that same
day. It is alleged that the official motive was that the BCHR violated Law No. 21 on Societies of
1989. Concern has been expressed that Abdul-Hadi Al-Khawaja may have been detained as a
direct result of his human rights work with BCHR, and in particular, his criticism of government
policy in regard to poverty in Bahrain during the symposium. Further concern has been
expressed about all members of the BCHR, due to reports about the creation by the Ministry of
Labour of a multi-institutional committee aimed at “taking legal and punitive actions against the
BCHR”. It is feared that such a committee may lead to the closure of the organization. In view of
his alleged incommunicado detention, concern is expressed that he may be at risk of torture or
other forms of ill-treatment.
40. On 6 October 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal in connection with information received regarding Nabeel Rajab, the president of BCHR,
and other members of that organization. According to the information received, on 30 September
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2004, the Minister of Labour and Social Affairs was quoted in the newspaperAl-Wasat as stating
that punitive actions would be taken against the members of BCHR, in particular Nabeel Rajab,
if they kept trying to breach the Ministry's order to close the organization, and commented that
Nabeel Rajab was “sending messages abroad to create a chaotic atmosphere”, with reference to
correspondence BCHR had with media and non-governmental organizations abroad on behalf of
the re-establishment of the organization and the release of its executive director, Abdul-Hadi Al-
Khawaja. Concern has been expressed that Nabeel Rajab and other members of the BCHR may
have been threatened with punitive actions as a direct result of their human rights work, in
particular their attempts to re-establish BCHR and secure the release of its executive director,
Abdul-Hadi Al-Khawaja.
41. On 1 November 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal regarding Mr.
AbduiraufAl-Shayeb and Mr. Mahmood Ramadan, respectively spokesperson and board
member of the National Committee for Martyrs and Victims of Torture in Bahrain. On 28
October 2004, around 8 p.m., the two men, together with other protesters, were taking part in a
‘car parade' on a highway, organized by the Committee to publicly call for the liberation of Mr.
Abdul-Hadi Al-Khawaja. According to the information received, although the protest was
proceeding peacefully, Mr. Abdulrauf Al-Shayeb and ten other protesters were surrounded by 30
anti-riot police for about three hours before being arrested. 200 riot police were allegedly present
at the site, though not directly involved in blocking Mr. Abdulrauf Al-Shayeb and the ten other
protesters. Attempts by other persons to negotiate their release with the police failed. Allegedly,
around 800 persons gathered at the location and started to chant slogans demanding the release
of Mr. Abdul-Hadi Al-Khawaja, waving his picture and Bahraini flags. According to the
information received, at around 11:30 p.m. the police started firing teargas against the crowd and
arrested the 11 encircled protesters and another estimated 30 of the protesters in the crowd.
Several individuals were wounded. Concern is expressed that the arrest and detention of Mr.
AbdulraufAl-Shayeb and Mr. Mahmood Ramadan may be an attempt to prevent their further
activity as human rights defenders in Bahrain, in particular their efforts to obtain the release from
custody of Mr. Abdul-Hadi Al-Khawaja, and on behalf of the persons assisted by the National
Committee for Martyrs and Victims of Torture.
Communications received
42. By letter dated 16 April 2004, the Government responded to the urgent appeal sent by the
Special Representative on 7 April 2004. The Government confirmed that, on 30 March 2004, the
police arrested Abduirauf Al-Shayeb who was charged with trespassing under article 361 of the
Criminal Code, based on his visits to a maid in the absence of the house owner. The Government
indicated that the Department of Public Prosecution decided to remand Mr. Al-Shayeb in custody
for a period of seven days under article 147 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. It fhrther stated
that, on 3 April 2004, he was released on bail, and not by order of the Crown Prince. The maid
was released pursuant to article 149 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. The Government stated
that Mr. Al-Shayeb had not been subject to inhuman treatment in custody, and that the
investigators found no evidence to support the claim that a senior police officer threatened to cut
out his tongue. As for the claim that Mr. Al-Shayeb was deliberately arrested to prevent him
from organizing a demonstration in support of torture survivors, the Government stated that the
case and investigation files show that none of the procedures undertaken prior to his arrest were
directed against him personally or against any identifiable person in particular. Mr. Al-Shayeb
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Page 18
was not arrested in order to prevent him from taking part in any meeting or peacefhl
demonstration.
43. By letter dated 6 October 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by the
Special Representative on 1 October 2004 in connection with the recent arrest of Abdul-iladi
AI-Khawaja. The Government refuted several of the allegations contained in the initial
correspondence, notably: the accusation of arbitrary arrest, incommunicado detention, and
improper, cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. According to the Government,
during his time in custody, the accused had been afforded all his rights of visit, representation
and welfare. The accused was arrested for suspected violations of articles 165 and 168 of
Bahrain's Penal Code. No charges were filed against him. Regarding the closure of the Bahrain
Centre for Human Rights, the Government stated that the BCHR had long been operating in
violation of Law No. 21 of 1989 on Societies, and despite several warnings, had continued its
illegal activities. Under similar circumstances, the Al-Oruba Club had its activities suspended for
45 days. The Government reiterated its commitment to human rights protection and advancement
and welcomed the development of an open, active and vibrant civil society.
44. By letter dated 13 October 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by
the Special Representative on 6 October 2004 regarding Nabeel Rajab. The Government denied
the accusations that the Minister of Labour and Social Affairs had threatened to take “punitive
action” against the members of the BCHR during an interview. According to the Government,
the Minister's decision to dissolve the BCHR was taken in accordance with the Societies Law,
and only in response to the repeated failure of the organization to take appropriate disciplinary
action against their members operating in violation of said law. As such, the decision should be
respected unless subsequently reversed by the courts, and any violation of the aforementioned
decision would incur further punitive action. The Government assured that the legal redress
initiated by the BCHR would be afforded a fair and proper audience.
45. By letter dated 1 December 2004, and in response to a further communications
transmitted on 1 November 2004, the Kingdom of Bahrain sent additional information to the
Special Representative concerning the arrest and detention ofAbduiraufAl-Shayeb and
Mahmood Ramadan. According to the Government, the two detainees were arrested and
detained for actions completely unrelated with the expression of their views or opinions.
However, the Government declared that Mahmood Ramadan was promptly released due to lack
of evidence, although the case against Abdulrauf Al-Shayeb remained under investigation. On 21
November 2004, the King issued a directive ordering the release of all persons arrested and
charged with illegal assembly and resisting police, including the aforementioned.
46. By letter dated 1 December 2004, the Government sent further information to the Special
Representative concerning the case against Abdul iladi AI-Khawaja and the Al-Oruba Club. In
the communication, the Government stated that the Criminal Court had sentenced in absentia,
Abdul Hadi Al-Khawaja, to one year in prison. The same day, a decree issued by the King of
Bahrain pardoned the aforesaid from serving the sentence, in light of the time spent in custody
prior to the court ruling. With regard to the Al-Oruba Club, the suspension of its activities was
reversed by the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports.
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Observations
47. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its prompt and detailed replies to
the communications sent. She welcomes the Government's reiteration of its commitment to
human rights and to the development of an open, active and vibrant civil society. The Special
Representative notes the pivotal role played by genuine freedom of speech, including for persons
criticizing the authorities in relation to human rights issues, in the achievement of the goals the
Government has set itself
48. The Special Representative welcomes the release of Mr. Al-Shayeb, Mr. Al-Khawaja and
Mr. Ramadan. While she acknowledges the Government's assurance that Mr. Al-Shayeb and Mr.
Ramadan were arrested on grounds unrelated to their human rights work, she remains concerned
at what appears to be a pattern of arrests of human rights defenders. In relation to the case of Mr.
Al-Khawaja, the Special Representative notes that the use of criminal charges such as
“encouraging hatred of the State” and “distributing falsehoods and rumours” frequently implies
the risk of suppressing legitimate free speech, and is particularly wonying when such charges are
raised against a person for having denounced alleged human rights violations.
49. With regard to the two non-governmental organizations mentioned in her
communications to the Government, the Special Representative particularly welcomes the
decision of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports to reverse the decision to close the Al-
Oruba Club. The Special Representative notes the importance for an open society of legislation
protecting freedom of association. She invites the Government to review the Law on Societies
and other relevant regulations to ensure that Bahrain's legislation adequately protects the right of
persons to freely organize to defend human rights.
Bangladesh
Communications sent
50. On 19 January 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal concerning
allegations of legal action being brought against Khademul Islam Bidduth, leader of the
Equality Trade Union Migrants Branch (ETU-MB) and Jamal Ali, an active member of the
migrant movement. According information received, Khademul Islam Bidduth and Jamal Ali
were arrested by police in the Republic of Korea on 26 October 2003 while taking part in a
demonstration against an alleged crackdown on migrant workers by the Government, which
reportedly began on 24 October. Both human rights defenders were subsequently deported from
the Republic of Korea to Bangladesh, where they were reportedly held in detention until 4
January 2004 when they were released on bail and targeted with legal action, apparently for their
association with trade unions and civil society groups in the Republic of Korea.
51. On 3 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a letter of
allegation concerning the situation of the iluman Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities
(IIRCBM), a human rights and humanitarian services organization which has publicly
denounced human rights violations against minorities in Bangladesh and has filed a writ petition
before the Bangladesh Supreme Court concerning the protection of religious and ethnic
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minorities. According to the information received, on 17 April 2004 a group of men, reportedly
members of the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNF) under the leadership of a local
member of Parliament whose name is known to the Special Representative, forcibly entered the
offices of HRCBM in Dhaka. It is reported that they ransacked and looted the offices taking
furniture, computers, videos and cameras as well as HRCBM documents. They also reportedly
assaulted the office assistant, Kazi Shohag Hossain, who was allegedly later taken to hospital for
treatment. According to the information received, the perpetrators of the attack threatened
members of HRCBM staff, including its vice-president Advocate Dulal Choudhury, of serious
consequences if the incident was reported. Also, the Lalbag police station allegedly initially
refused to register the complaint. A case was reportedly registered on 22 April 2004. Concern
has been expressed that the alleged attack on the offices of HRCBM may be an attempt at
hindering their human rights work on behalf of minorities in Bangladesh, in particular on recent
reporting of human rights abuses against minorities in the country, including State
discrimination.
52. On 5 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, sent an urgent appeal concerning
the alleged attack on Mrs. Sumi Khan, ajournalist and Chittagong correspondent of the
magazine Weekly 2000, who was reportedly stabbed and critically wounded in the Nandan
Kanon area in Chittagong on 27 April 2004. According to information received, the attack took
place at about 10.30 p.m., as Sumi Khan was on her way to a courier delivery service to send a
report to her editor. Three men in an auto-rickshaw allegedly attempted to drag her into their
vehicle, but she resisted. They then reportedly stabbed her several times. As people in the
vicinity came to her aid, they reportedly grabbed her handbag and drove away. The assailants
allegedly threatened that she would be killed if she did not stop writing. It was reported that three
policemen stood by while the attack was taking place. She has reportedly filed a complaint with
the police but so far no one has been arrested. Sumi Khan has reportedly written a number of
investigative articles about human rights violations suffered by the Hindus and the alleged
involvement of local politicians and religious groups in attacks on members of this community,
kidnapping and land grabbing by some landlords. In recent weeks, she had allegedly received
several anonymous threatening telephone calls, warning her not to “defame” people in her
reports. It is believed that Sumi Khan is being targeted for her work as a journalist, in particular
for her articles raising human rights concerns. Sumi Khan allegedly continues to receive
threatening phone calls as she recuperates at her home.
53. On 12 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, sent an urgent appeal concerning Aurobindo Pal,
a freelance photojournalist and deputy chairman of the Nandail city's press club, who has
reportedly been charged with “murder” after refusing to hand over photographs to police.
According to information received, on 10 May 2004, Mr. Pal was arrested by police in
Mymensingh district, northern Bangladesh, after refusing to hand over the negatives of pictures
he took during a riot at a polling station in the city of Nandail where local elections were being
held on 9 May 2004. It is reported that on the orders of a police officer whose name is known to
the Special Rapporteur and the Special Representative, and who was allegedly involved in
human rights abuses in the past, police reportedly fired into the crowd, killing two demonstrators
and injuring at least 17 others. Mr. Pal took photographs of the incident, and on the same night,
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police allegedly turned up at his home to seize his negatives. It is reported that despite threats of
reprisals from the police, Mr. Pal refused, after which the police reportedly searched his home
and one officer said he had been ordered to arrest him if he failed to comply. It is reported that
Mr. Pal, who was allegedly charged with “murder” under article 302 of the Criminal Code in
order to prevent him from being released on bail and exert further pressure on him, is scheduled
to appear before a Nandail court on 12 May 2004.
54. On 28 July 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning Mr. Salam Azad, a writer who has written numerous publications raising
concerns with regard to the human rights of religious minorities in Bangladesh. According to our
information, Salam Azad has recently published a novel, “Bhanga Math”, on the theme of
discrimination and human rights violations against religious minorities in Bangladesh. On 18
July 2004, the Government banned the distribution and sale of this book, alleging that it would
incite violence between Moslems and Hindus. Salam Azad at the time was outside Bangladesh,
attending a United Nations human rights meeting. In the days following the alleged ban, Salam
Azad was reportedly warned that he might be at risk of arrest by authorities upon his return to
Bangladesh or of murder by political extremists. Salam Azad's wife has reportedly received
threatening phone calls.
55. On 26 August 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning the killing of Dr. Kamal ilossain, a journalist working for the daily Alker
Kago, secretary-general of the Manikchhari Press Club and a human rights advocate and founder
of Ain-O-Shalishi Kendra (Center for Law and Justice, a human rights organization in
Bangladesh). According to the information received, on 22 August 2004, Dr. Kamal Hossain was
allegedly abducted and murdered by unknown individuals. According to his wife, the journalist
hid when the attackers broke in, but surrendered to them after they threatened to kill his two-
year-old son. Police found the journalist's body a few hours later, two kilometers from his home.
He had allegedly been investigating cases linked to organized crime and a few days before his
murder, he had helped police to identify some gang members. Reportedly, he had also received
death threats. Concern has been expressed that Dr. Kamal Hossain may have been targeted in
relation to his human rights activities, in particular his work on cases linked to organized crime
and identification of some gang members. Concern is heightened by the fact that recently, the
editors and journalists at the largest Bangla daily, Prothom Alo, have also reportedly been
threatened with attacks by an Islamist group for publishing investigative reports about the
activities of a number of madrasas (religious schools) in rural areas. Additionally, family
members of the human rights defender Dr. llumayun Azad, who died suddenly on 12 August
2004 whilst on a visit in Germany, have been threatened with death if they went to the airport to
receive his body on 27 August.
56. On 1 September 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Special Rapporteur on the
question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Rafique al-Islam, responsible for the
activities of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL) and the representative of Non
Violence International in Bangladesh. According to the information received, on 21 August 2004
at approximately 2.30 p.m., Rafique al-Islam was allegedly arrested at his home in Cox's Bazar
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by military officers of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and later taken to Cox's Bazar prison.
It is reported that during the arrest, RAB members also seized documents and equipment from
his office. A hearing of the charges against him was reportedly scheduled for the 26 August but
was subsequently postponed to 29 August; neither his family nor his lawyer were informed of
the charges brought against him. On 29 August 2004, Rafique al-Islam was reportedly remanded
into the custody of the RAB for interrogation and was to be transferred to an unknown location.
Concern has been expressed about the physical and psychological integrity of Rafique al-Islam
given that other individuals recently detained by RAB military officers have reportedly been
subjected to torture and other forms of ill treatment while in custody. It is also feared that the
arrest of Rafique al-Islam may be a result of his work as a human rights defender, in particular
through his campaign to ban landmines.
Communications received
57. By letter dated 7 May 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 5 May
2004 concerning Mrs. Sumi Khan. The Government informed that the communication had been
forwarded to the authorities concerned, for immediate attention and necessary action.
58. By letter dated 10 May 2004, the Government replied to the letter of allegation sent on 3
May 2004 concerning the situation of the iluman Rights Congress for Bangladesh Minorities
(IIRCBM). The Government informed that the communication had been forwarded to the
authorities concerned for immediate attention and necessary action.
59. On 3 August 2004, the Government sent a response to the urgent action sent on 28 July
2004 concerning Mr. Salam Azad. The Government expressed its surprise at these allegations,
explaining that Mr. Azad who was present at the Permanent Mission of Bangladesh in Geneva on
19 July 2004 never mentioned neither at that time, nor later during the session of the Working
Group on Indigenous Peoples, that he feared arrest by the authorities or that his family felt
threatened. Concerning the reported ban on his book, the Government states that Mr. Azad
should have sought appropriate legal action if he felt that the Government acted beyond the law.
60. By letter dated 17 August 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 19
January 2004. The Government informed that Khademul Islam Bidduth and Jamal Ali, who
were both active members of a trade union for migrant workers in the Republic of Korea, had
protested against a decision by the Government of the Republic of Korea to deport all illegal
immigrants who had stayed more then 5 years. They were deported by the Government of the
Republic of Korea on 1 January 2004. The reply indicated that, upon their arrival in Bangladesh,
they were taken into custody on cognizable offences under section U/S 54 of the CrPC.
According to the Government of Bangladesh, they were subsequently granted bail by the court,
as the Government of the Republic of Korea lodged no formal or official complaint against them.
61. By letter dated 31 August 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 26
August 2004 concerning Dr. Kamal ilossain. The Government informed that the
communication had been forwarded to the concerned authorities in Bangladesh for immediate
attention and necessary action.
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62. By letter dated 20 October 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 12
May 2004. The Government informed that Mr. Aurobindo Pal had been arrested by the police
in connection with a case lodged with Nandail Police Station, case no. 6 of 9 May 2004, under
section 147/148/332/353/307/302 of the Penal Code. The reply indicated that allegations of inter
alia arbitrary arrest and threats of reprisals were found to be unsubstantiated, as the investigating
officer went with a warrant to arrest Mr. Pal. The case was at the time under investigation under
the direct supervision of senior officials. The Government stated, as far as the demonstration on
9 May 2004 was concerned, that activists and supporters of two candidates who where contesting
for the local municipal elections had assembled unlawfully and entered into altercations, leading
to an explosive and unruly situation. It informed that there was an exchange of fire between both
groups. The Government indicated that one activist received bullet injuries and died after he had
been taken to the hospital. Another activist, who had not been injured, died later following
cardiac arrest. The Government concluded that in view of these explanations, the allegations that
two persons died under police fire were unfounded. It informed that the police had fired two
rounds of blank shots to disperse the rioting people and to bring the situation under control.
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
63. By letter dated 21 May 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent jointly
with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion
and expression and the Chairperson-Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention on
4 December 2003 concerning Salah Uddin Shoaib Choudhury. The Government informed that
Mr. Choudhury was arrested on sedition charges under case no. 8 of 9 December 2003 under
section 11(3) of the Passport Act 1973 filed with Dhaka Airport Police Station. A separate case
(no. 20) had also been filed against him with the same Police Station on 24 January 2004 under
section 108(a)/120(b) 124(a)/505(a) of the Penal Code. Both cases were under investigation at
the time. The Government fhrther stated that Mr. Choudhury had made a written statement
denying that he had been tortured by the police while in custody, and informing that neither he
nor members of his family had filed any complaints of torture or ill-treatment against the
authorities.
Observations
64. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its replies. She welcomes the
release on bail of Khademul Islam Bidduth and Jamal Ali. She remains gravely concerned about
the reported attacks and threats of individuals and organizations working to protect human rights,
including minority rights. She is equally concerned that several journalists have been victims of
such attacks and threats, and that one of them was reportedly killed. The Special Representative
urges the Government to take all necessary measures to ensure that the perpetrators are brought
to justice.
Belarus
Communications sent
65. On 9 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a letter of
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allegation concerning the situation of Natalya Kaliada, a journalist and human rights defender
who has reportedly been fined US$ 200 for publishing articles on a web site operated by Charter
97, an organization which works to promote democracy and human rights in Belarus. According
to the information received, the fine followed an investigation into the legality of the news
produced by the organization, carried out by the Deputy Attorney-General, which reportedly
concluded that the activities of Charter 97, including its reporting of human rights violations,
were illegal. Concern has been expressed that the fine imposed on Natalya Kaliada may be a
reprisal for her reporting on human rights related issues and a means to deter her from further
canying out her human rights work.
66. On 26 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal regarding the situation of the Belarusian ilelsinki Committee (BIIC), the Belarus
branch of the International Helsinki Federation, whose case was the subject of an urgent appeal
by the Special Representative on 1 October 2003. According to the information received, on 19
August 2003, the BHC reportedly received an official warning from the Ministry of Justice for
omitting the quotation marks from the organization's name on its official letterheads and
organizational symbol. In this context and according to the information received, on 17 March
2004, following an investigation by the Department of Finance, criminal charges were brought
against representatives of the BHC under Presidential Decree No. 8 art. 12 on “Receipt and Use
of Foreign Financial Assistance” and namely for “omission to register foreign financial
assistance”. The Department of Finance has reportedly stated that the Committee owes the State
385 million Belarus roubles in unpaid taxes and fines for alleged unlawful use of project funds
received under the European Union TACIS Programme. It is reported that according to the
general rules of the Memorandum on Financing between Belarus and the European Union, it was
agreed on 10 May 1994 that the TACIS programme would be exempt from taxation. According
to the information received, the representatives of the BHC face criminal charges under article
243 of the Criminal Code that could result in their arrest as well as the closure of the
Committee's bank account and the confiscation of its property. At the time of the appeal, the
Economic Court of the City of Minsk was scheduled to consider the lawsuit on 1 June 2004.
Concern is expressed that the primary motivation behind these proceedings may be to prevent
BHC from carrying out its human rights activities. This concern is heightened in the light of
information received regarding the alleged closure of 51 NGOs, many of them human rights
organizations, in the course of 2003, a number of which have also been the subject of urgent
appeals by the Special Representative.
67. On 18 June 2004, the Special Representative sent the following letter of general concerns
in connection with information received on the closure of 51 NGOs and of written warnings to
a further 810 NGOs, a significant number of which working in the defence of human rights: “I
am gratefhl for the replies transmitted to five communications I sent to your Government in 2003
regarding the closure of eight human rights NGOs. However, in the light of continued allegations
of NGOs facing legal proceedings and closure, I remain gravely concerned at the situation of
human rights defenders in Belarus. I am especially concerned at information I have received
regarding the adoption since 1999 of a number of legislative measures regarding the registration,
functioning and funding of NGOs, including human rights organizations, which appear to be
contrary to article S (b) of the Declaration on the Right and Responsibility of Individuals, Groups
and Organs of Society to Promote and Protect Universally Recognized Human Rights and
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Fundamental Freedoms, which provides for the rights of individuals to form, join and participate
in non-governmental organizations for the purpose of promoting and protecting human rights. In
particular, I am concerned with the restrictive registration procedures stipulated in Presidential
Decree No. 2 of 26 January 1999, which modifies the prior system in which registration was
reportedly a simple formality. According to my information, the Decree provides that all NGOs
are now required to officially register or re-register with the Belarusian authorities. It also sets up
a “State Commission on the registration of associations” with widespread powers to review
registration requests. Presidential Decree No 11 of September 2003 reportedly extends the scope
of this legislation to apply to unions of associations. Provisions within the Law on Association
which regulates the closure of NGOs offer further ground for concern. In particular, I am
alarmed by the provision that allows for an organization to be closed down on receipt of two
written warnings in a given year from the Ministry of Justice. My information indicates that the
system of official warning has been used in connection with the amended registration system to
effectively end the work of human rights defenders in Belarus. In the course of 2003, the vast
majority of human rights NGOs in Belarus have been closed down. I have personally received
allegations of over 11 human rights organizations facing legal proceedings and closure for minor
administrative irregularities such as having a different street address or using a different
organizational symbol then that registered or undertaking activities deemed outside the scope of
their charter. I consider that such minor irregularities do not provide sufficient grounds for the
closure of an organization. Indeed, registration procedures and grounds for closure cannot be so
restrictive that they result in the inability of defenders to carry out their activities. I am further
alarmed by the June 2003 amendment of the Law on Association (no.213-3) which allows for the
closure of an organization in the event of a violation of the legislation on demonstration and may
result in the undue restriction of the right of defenders to peaceful assembly. I am equally
concerned at information I have received regarding restrictions on the rights of NGOs to provide
legal assistance and representation to citizens in civil trials. Presidential Decree No. 13 of 15
April 2003 reportedly amends article 72 of the civil code which allowed associations to represent
a defendant in court if its bylaw so provided. The Decree restricts this right by stipulating that
“NGOs may only represent defendants at civil trials in general courts if authorized by law to
represent members of such associations and other persons before the courts and defend their
rights and interests.” Such provisions appear to be contrary to article 9 (a) and (b) of the
Declaration on Human Rights Defenders that provide for the right to provide legal
representation. Further, I understand that article 62 of the Constitution of Belarus does not place
limitations on the right of citizens to choose their representatives in courts. Lastly, I am
concerned by reported restrictions on the rights of NGOs to receive and utilize resources.
Presidential Decree No.24 of 28 November 2003 reportedly provides measures to control foreign
aid including preventing NGOs from using this aid to organize “meetings, demonstrations or
picket lines”, as well as to “draft and circulate propaganda documents or to engage in other types
of political activities”. The ability of human rights defenders to cany out their activities rests on
their ability to receive fhnds and utilize them without undue restriction. The restriction imposed
by Decree 24 represents a real threat to the existence of NGOs and is contrary to article 13 of the
Declaration which provides for the right to received resources for the express purpose of
promoting and protecting human rights. While I recognize the need to regulate the functioning of
NGOs, I am gravely concerned that the above mentioned legislation is being used to obstruct the
legitimate activities of organizations working in the defense of human rights in Belarus and
silence human rights defenders. I call on the Belarus Government to ensure that the its legislation
is in conformity with recognized international norms and standards in particular the Declaration
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on Human Rights Defenders and urge the government to ensure that the rights enshrined in the
declaration on human rights defenders are respected in particular their right to freedom of
association. I am available to provide any support in this regard and would be glad to open a
meaningfhl dialogue with the government on the implementation of the Declaration. I would also
like to take this opportunity to reiterate my request for an invitation to conduct an official visit
sent to you on 1 July 2002 which has not received a response to this date.”
68. On 28 September 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal in connection
with new information received regarding the Belarusian ilelsinki Committee (BIIC), in
particular its Chairperson, Tatiana Protsko, and its head accountant, Tatiana Rutkevich. The
BHC has been the subject of urgent appeals by the Special Representative on 26 May 2004 and 1
October 2003. According to new information received, the BHC was cleared of all charges of tax
evasion by the Minsk Economic Court in June 2004, and the decision was upheld by the
Appellate Court at the end of July 2004. The court's decision confirmed the legality of the
activities of the organization and that the BHC complied with all procedures as required by the
authorities. It is reported however that the criminal investigation against its chairperson, Tatiana
Protsko, and its head accountant, Tatiana Rutkevich, continues and that they could face a
sentence of up to seven years' imprisonment if convicted. According to the information received,
as part of the criminal investigation, an additional audit of the BHC will take place, which will
be coordinated by the Ministry for Taxes and Collections, involving the Ministry of Economy,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Justice. Concern has been expressed that the primary
motivation behind this investigation may be to prevent BHC from carrying out its human rights
activities. This concern is heightened in the light of information received regarding the alleged
closure of a number of human rights NGOs in the course of 2003 and 2004, a number of which
have also been the subject of urgent appeals by the Special Representative.
69. On 30 September 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a letter of
allegation regarding information received on Professor Yuri Bandazhevsky, former rector of
the Gomel Medical Institute, whose works raised awareness about the health effects of the
radioactive fall-out of the Chernobyl nuclear reactor disaster of 1986 for the inhabitants of the
Gomel's region, who openly criticized the State authorities and, in his capacity as a member of a
special research committee, reported about the research being conducted into the Chernobyl
disaster of 1986 by the Institute of Radiation Medicine (part of the Belarusian Ministry of
Health), criticizing the manner in which the research had been carried out and the fact that
money had been spent on research without producing any important scientific findings.
According to the information received, on 13 July 1999, Yuri Bandazhevsky was arrested by a
group of police officers in Gomel but was not formally charged until 5 August 1999. He was not
reportedly given access to a lawyer and he had limited opportunities to meet his wife, Galina
Bandazhevskaya. When, three weeks after his arrest, the lawyer had the permission to visit his
client, Professor Bandazhevsky was transferred to a prison 160 km away in Mogilov without the
lawyer's knowledge and was allegedly put in an isolation cell and then transferred again to a
maximum security prison in Minsk. On 18 June 2001, after a four-month long trial in the
Military Board of the Supreme Court, Professor Bandazhevsky was convicted of accepting US$
26, 000 in bribes from students seeking admission to the Gomel Medical Institute and sentenced
to eight years' imprisonment and confiscation of his property and was banned from exercising
any managerial and political functions for five years after his release. It is alleged that the
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prosecution did not produce any material evidence supporting this claim and that Professor
Bandazhevsky's co-defendant, Vladimir Ravkov, vice-rector of Gomel Medical Institute, was
forced by the police to testify of Professor Bandazhevsky's involvement in taking bribes. It is
reported that for 14 to 16 hours a day, he was denied food and sleep, threatened that his wife and
daughter would be harmed, and given psychotropic substances. He allegedly retracted his
statement shortly afterwards. It is reported that Professor Bandazhevsky is currently confined to
the “free settlement” of Peskavtsy (Grodno region), a form of internal exile. Concern has been
expressed that Professor Bandazhevsky's detention may have been decided in order to prevent
him from continuing his scientific works and from denouncing the effects of radioactive disaster
of Chernobyl on the inhabitants of Gomel region.
Communications received
70. By letter dated 16 June 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by the
Special Representative on 9 February 2004 in reference to the legal action taken against Natalya
Kalyada. In its response, the Government referred to the illegal status of the organization
Human Rights Centre Charter ‘97, which is not a registered organization that according the the
Government has never attempted to register. The Government thus underlined that in its view the
organization and its members exist and operate in violation of the law and are thereby subject to
prosecution. The Government confirmed that on 2 February 2004, Natalya Kalyada was fined 20
standard units, or US$ 160 at a fixed rate of exchange.
71. By letter dated 5 July 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by the
Special Representative on 26 May 2004 regarding the situation of the Belarusian ilelsinki
Committee (BIIC). According to reports from the Government, on 23 June 2004, the Minsk
City Economic Court overturned the financial sanctions previously incurred by the BHC for the
non-payment of taxes on funds received under the TACIS programme. Consequently, all charges
against the BHC relating to this issue have been dropped and the court expenses transferred to
the Tax Inspection Office.
72. By letter dated 17 December 2004, the Government replied to the letter of allegation sent
on 30 September 2004 concerning Professor Yuri Bandazhevsky. Unfortunately, the English
translation was not available in time to be examined and included in this report, and will thus be
reported next year.
73. By letter dated 12 January 2005, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 28
September 2004 concerning the Belarusian ilelsinki Committee (BIIC), in particular its chair,
Tatiana Protsko, and its head accountant, Tatiana Rutkevich. Unfortunately, the English
translation was not available in time to be examined and included in this report, and will thus be
reported next year.
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
74. By letter dated 11 February 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent
jointly with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of
opinion and expression on 30 September 2003 concerning Viasna, and to the letter of allegation
sent by the Special Representative on 2 October 2003 concerning the Legal Assistance to the
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Population, Ratusha, Civic Initiatives, the Kontur Centre of Youth Initiatives and Varuta.
The Government informed that under national law, the activities of voluntary associations are
monitored by the registering body to ensure their conformity with legislation and status. When a
violation occurs, the registering body must issue a written warning. If a violation is repeated
within a 12-month period, the voluntary association is subject to dissolution by court decision.
The Government stressed that compulsory dissolution may only be ordered by a court, in
compliance with international practice. According to the Government, the organizations
mentioned in the communications sent by the Special Representative committed repeated and
gross violations of national legislation and received official warnings. Yet the violations
continued to take place, which compelled the courts to take measures. The Government informed
that on 28 October 2003, the Supreme Court approved the petition of the Ministry of Justice to
dissolve Viasna. The decision was based on its violation of electoral laws in its monitoring of the
last presidential election. It further stated that on 13 October 2003, the Supreme Court upheld the
decision of the Minsk City Court to close the organization Legal Assistance to the Population.
The court based its decision on repeated violations of legislation in the course of a year,
including free legal assistance to the general public provided by the organization. According to
the Government, the organization had received a written warning. In its reply, the Government
indicated that Ratusha had committed repeated violations in the course of a year, concerning
which a written warning had been issued. Hence, the justice department of the Grodno oblast
executive committee filed for the dissolution of the organization. The Government confirmed
that Civic Initiatives had been closed down, and informed that the decision was based on its
repeated violations that had been the subject of an official warning. The organization had used
office equipment received as non-reimbursable foreign aid for the preparation of propaganda
materials and the conduct of other kinds of propaganda activities. Moreover, according to the
Government, the organization had, inter alia, created structures not provided for in its founding
statutes. Concerning the Kontur Centre of Youth Initiatives, the Government confirmed its
closure. The decision was based on several violations of national law, including the Presidential
Decree on the procedure for using non-reimbursable foreign aid and tax legislation. It stated that
the organization did not comply with the Voluntary Associations Act concerning the registration
of changes in its statute and the submission to the registering body of documents for verification.
According to the reply, the organization received two written warnings relating to these
violations, and the violations continued to take place after these warnings were issued. The
Government confirmed that Varuta was closed down on 9 July 2003, and informed that on 8
September 2003, the civil division of the Supreme Court upheld this decision. The Government
confirmed the information contained in the communication sent on the basis for this decision.
75. By letter dated 16 June 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 1
October 2003 communications concerning Belarusian ilelsinki Committee (BHC), and to the
urgent appeal sent on 1 October 2003 concerning Women ‘s Response. The Government
informed that, on 17 August 2003, the Ministry of Justice issued a written warning to the
Belarusian Helsinki Committee. The warning stated that inspections conducted in September
2001 and August 2002 had established that the association had used on its letterhead, its seal and
stamp, a name inconsistent with its statutes. The Government stated that, at a court hearing, the
association's representatives did not dispute the details of this inspection. The court could not
agree with the arguments of the association's representatives that showing the association's name
in English on its letterhead and seal is not against national legislation. Furthermore, according to
the Government, the association's short name on its stamp, ROO BKK, is inconsistent with its
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statues. The organization's representatives had argued that the violations noted were
insignificant, but the court found that the legislation governing legal disputes did not contain
such a concept. Based on the evidence, the court established that the written warning issued to
the association by the registering body should be declared lawful and the appeal by the
association without merit. The Government further indicated that, since its registration in 2000,
Women's Response had committed several legal violations, including gross ones, within one
year, for which the Ministry of Justice has issued four written warnings. Inter alia, the
organization's address was different from that officially registered, and the number of its
members was below that required for it to be registered. The Government stated that the
organization used a seal that did not contain the legal entity's full name, which is required. It
stated that the arguments advanced by the organization's representatives that the association's
executive body was not located at its legal addresses for valid reasons are groundless. Under the
law, the executive body must be situated at the exact address indicated in its statutes and, if there
is a change of address, the organization is required to amend the statutes within one month.
Hence the court ruled that the applications by the Ministry of Justice for the organization to be
closed down were well-founded and should be granted.
Observations
76. The Special Representative would like to thank the Government for its responses, and
welcomes the annulment of the financial sanctions previously imposed on the BHC for the non-
payment of taxes on funds received under the TACIS programme. Nevertheless, the Special
Representative remains concerned about the reported ongoing criminal investigation of the
chairperson and head accountant of BHC.
77. The Special Representative takes note of the Government's explanation of the
administrative and judicial proceedings carried out in the cases of Ms. Kalyada and the non-
governmental organizations Viasna, Legal Assistance to the Population, Ratusha, Civic
Initiatives, the Kontur Centre of Youth Initiatives and Varuta. She acknowledges that, as outlined
in the Government's replies, the authorities appear to have strictly applied the legislation
governing such associations in closing down these NGOs. The Special Representative regrets to
note, however, that the Government's replies in relation to these cases do not dispel the grave
concerns she raised in her letter of general concerns dated 18 June 2004, but rather confirm them.
She observes that where the laws governing associations are incompatible with the Declaration
on Human Rights Defenders, their faithful application can only result in violations of the rights
enshrined in the Declaration. The Special Representative therefore urgently invites the
Government to review the Law on Associations and the Presidential Decree No. 2 of 26 January
1999 in the light of the concerns expressed in her letter of 18 June 2004. She reiterates her offer
to the Government to provide any support it may find useful in crafting legislation that strikes the
right balance between, on one side, the need for the State to provide a framework regulating the
formation and operation of NGOs, and freedom of association on the other side. She also restates
her belief that, in order to engage in a meaningfhl dialogue in this matter, an official visit to
Belarus may be very helpful. Finally, considering that changing the law might take some time,
the Special Representative invites the Government to explore, as a matter of urgency, ways in
which the NGOs that were closed in application of the current legislation could lawfully resume
their activity while the revision of the legislation is being studied.
E/CN.4/2005/10 1/Add. 1
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Bolivia
Seguimiento de comunicaciones transmitidas previamente
78. Por carta de fecha del l°de marzo de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO a la comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 23 de octubre de 2003 con respecto al robo en Ia
oficina de Ia Asamblea Permanente de Derechos ilumanos en Ia ciudad de La Paz. El
Gobierno informO que ci 19 de octubre de 2003, una investigaciOn habrIa sido iniciada por la
Policla Técnica Judicial de la ciudad de La Paz pero hasta la fecha no existen suficientes
elementos probatorios debido al hecho de que los afectados no habrIan presentado ninguna
declaraciOn a la division de policla.
Observaciones
79. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its response.
Bosnia-llerzegovina
Communications sent
80. On 18 October 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal concerning the
ilelsinki Committee for iluman Rights in Bosnia-llerzegovina, a branch of the International
Helsinki Federation. According to the information received, on 26 September 2004, the
organization's office in Sarajevo was forcibly entered and computers containing records and files
concerning human rights cases and cases pending investigation were removed, and paper files
were destructed. Allegedly, a camera was removed but no other valuable equipment was taken,
including a new computer that did not contain any sensitive files. Concern has been expressed
that the Helsinki Committee for Human Rights in Bosnia-Herzegovina may have been targeted
due to their human rights activities.
Observations
81. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication.
Brazil
Communications sent
82. On 9 February 2004, the Special Representative transmitted a letter of allegation, together
with the Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, about the alleged
killings of Erastótenes de Almeida Gonçalves, Nelson José da Silva and João Batista Soares
Lages, three lawyers from the Brazilian Ministry of Labour. On 28 January 2004, unknown
individuals in a Fiat Strada allegedly shot in the head and killed ErastOtenes de Almeida
Gonçalves, Nelson José da Silva and JoAo Batista Soares Lages as they were driving to the
property of a landowner in the State of Minas Gerais while they were conducting a routine
inspection. It is reported that the driver, Aliton Pereira de Oliveira, was found severely wounded
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and died later the same day at a hospital in Brasilia. Concern has been expressed that the three
lawyers may have been killed in connection with their work defending workers' rights in Brazil.
Concerns are heightened by the fact that they had been threatened as a consequence of their work
advocating against and investigating conditions of slavery.
83. On 18 March 2004, the Special Representative transmitted a letter of allegation, together
with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of
indigenous people, regarding the alleged killing of Valdez Marinho Lima, a Xerente Indian and
an employee of the National Indigenous Foundation (FUNAI) who had been involved with
investigating illegal mining activities on Yanomami territory. According to the information
received, on 23 February 2004, Valdez Marinho Lima was reportedly shot in the chest by a
group of unidentified men, thought to be illegal miners, in the Paapiu region of Yanomami
territory. He and six other FUNAI agents were reportedly carrying out a mission to the region to
investigate complaints about illegal miners made by Yanomami leaders at the Regional
Assembly of Indigenous populations of Roraima earlier that month.
84. On 28 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, transmitted an
urgent appeal regarding the situation of Fernanda Giannasi, an official inspector of the
Brazilian Ministry of Labour and campaigner on behalf of workers affected by asbestos.
According to the information received, Fernanda Giannasi, who is the founding member of the
Association of Asbestos—Exposed Workers in Brazil and the Latin America Coordinator of the
Citizens Virtual Network against Asbestos, has been actively involved in exposing the dangers of
asbestos to workers and in campaigning to obtain justice for injured workers for the past 20
years. She has reportedly received international honours for her work, including the International
Prize of Occupational and Environmental Health from the American Public Health Association.
According to the information received, in the course of her work Fernanda Giannasi has been
exposed to intimidation and harassment. On 2 December 2003, she was reportedly supposed to
travel from São Paulo to carry out a visit to a factory in Recife in the state Pernambuco.
However, at the last minute, the Secretary of the Labour Inspection reportedly rescinded
permission for her journey. On 16 December 2003, she was reportedly informed that a former
Labour Minister had instigated a criminal claim against her under article 139 of the Penal Code,
allowing for criminal prosecution of critics of government officials, claiming that she had
offended his honour. The claims reportedly referred to public statements made by Fernanda
Giannasi criticizing the creation of a trade union by an asbestos multinational with the support of
the former Labour Minister, allegedly to replace an independent union which had organized a
strike at one of the factories of the multinational, and despite the fact that not all legal conditions
were met. The criminal proceedings against Fernanda Giannasi reportedly began on 17 February
2004 but have allegedly been postponed until September 2004. In parallel, on 1 February 2004,
she reportedly received a threatening letter at her home from a group called the “movement in
defence of national patrimony”. The letter allegedly accused her of causing the decline of the
Brazilian asbestos industry. On 20 February 2004, she received an official notification from the
Minister of Labour and Employment that she was no longer authorized to cany out inspecting
activities and would be required to carry out all her work from the São Paolo offices.
85. On 15 June 2004, the Special Representative transmitted an urgent action regarding the
situation of Ant onio Carlos Ferreira Gabriel, also known as “Rumba”, a community leader
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who had been particularly active in denouncing cases of police violence in the shantytown of
Jacarezinho in Rio de Janeiro. According to the information received, since the launch of a
public campaign to denounce incidents of police kidnapping of local residents in 1999, Mr.
Ferreira Gabriel has reportedly been the victim of constant acts of intimidation and harassment,
including anonymous threatening phone calls and a raid on his house during which he was
allegedly threatened at gun point by members of the police force. It is reported that in July 2001
his wife lodged a complaint at Police Station N°25 regarding the raid. However, following
numerous anonymous threatening phone calls from the police, she was allegedly forced to
withdraw it. According to the information received, on 4 April 2002, “Rumba” was reportedly
requested to present himself to the police, who arrested him on charges of drug trafficking and
placed him in detention for four months. He was reportedly acquitted by the 34th Criminal Court
on 4 February 2003. Shortly after the visit of the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary
or arbitrary executions to Brazil in September 2003, which included a visit to the Jacarezinho
favela during which “Rumba” was reportedly actively involved in informing the community of
her visit, the decision of the 34th Criminal Court was appealed by the Public Prosecutor. On 11
December 2003, he was reportedly sentenced to eight years in prison without parole. The court
judge reportedly made this decision without having reviewed the evidence that had led to his
acquittal in the first trial. A habeas corpus appeal has reportedly been made to the Brazilian
Supreme Court. Concern has been expressed that “Rumba” is being targeted for his human rights
work on behalf of the residents of Jacarezinho community. In particular, concern has been
expressed that the legal proceedings for drug trafficking charges and the decision to appeal his
case may be in reprisal for his work to involve the community in reporting police violence to the
Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions and may be aimed at
preventing him from carrying out his human rights work.
86. On 13 September 2004, the Special Representative transmitted a letter of allegation
concerning the County Community Council of Rio de Janeiro, a public organization
composed of more than thirty organizations from civil society working for the promotion of
penitentiary issues in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. According to the information received,
on 22 June 2004, during a visit to Milton Dias Moreira prison, Marcelo Freixo, the president of
the Community Council of Rio de Janeiro, presented an authorization to photograph conditions
within the prison, granted on 22 June. However, it is alleged that upon entering the prison, the
authorities told the Council members that a further authorization from the secretary of the prison
administration was required. They were later informed that this permission had been granted.
The Community Council members then proceeded to take photographs of unsanitary conditions
within the prison, such as an exposed sewage drain and fires allegedly used to burn prisoners'
belongings. In the course of their visit, they were notified by the authorities that no authorization
had been given and they were forced to destroy all their photographs before leaving the prison.
These photographs were allegedly destroyed by an administrator and the Community Council
members were forced to end their visit.
87. On 25 October 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, transmitted an
urgent appeal concerning the situation of Maria Joelma da Costa, president of the Rural
Worker's Union, in Rondon do Pará, Pará State. According to the information received, Maria
Joelma da Costa had been allegedly receiving anonymous threatening telephone calls to her
home and office during the past months. She was allegedly threatened that she would be killed
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unless she stopped her work defending rural workers. It is reported that Maria Joelma da Costa
has been receiving repeated death threats since she took over the presidency of the union in mid-
2002. On 6 February 2004, another colleague, Ribamar Francisco dos Santos, was reportedly
shot and killed in front of his house. No one has been charged with his killing, which is believed
to have been a direct result of his union activities. Maria Joelma da Costa's husband José Dutra
da Costa, known as “Dezinho”, a former Union president, had been killed by a hired gun-man on
21 November 2000 in front of their house after having received death threats since 1993. It is
alleged that although he had repeatedly reported these threats to the authorities, no measures had
been taken to ensure his protection. Concern for her safety is heightened due to the reported
withdrawal of her limited police protection on 2 October 2004.
88. On 25 October 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, transmitted an
urgent appeal concerning the situation of Eudo Lustosa Brasil, member of Acre Human Rights
Centre (Centro de Defesa dos Direitos Humanos do Acre), in the city of Rio Branco. According
to the information received, on 19 October 2004, Eudo Lustosa Brasil was reportedly the victim
of an attempt on his life when he was fired at by three men on motorcycles as he was on his way
home. It is reported that he escaped unharmed; however, on 21 October 2004 he allegedly
received an anonymous threatening phone call telling him that “that was just a warning, next
time you will finish up in the ground”. Concern was expressed that Eudo Lustosa Brasil may
have been targeted as a result of his human rights work, in particular, his recent investigation and
publication of the alleged torture of inmates by military police in a high security prison in Acre.
89. On 2 November 2004, the Special Representative sent a letter of allegation concerning
the situation of Carlos Roberto Salgueiro Dias and his wife Elisângela Batista Vieira
Salgueiro Dias, environmentalists and co-founders of the NGO Friends of Environmental Justice
(Amigos dajustica Ambiental — AJA), which works to protect the right to health of the Magé
community in the State of Rio de Janeiro. According to the information received, on 12 March at
approximately 4p.m., Carlos Roberto Salgueiro Dias was alone on the Rio-Teresopolis highway
outside the Essencis Co-Processamento Corporation, an industrial waste processing plant, in
order to determine the source of a strong odour which could be detected in his community. It is
reported that the manager of Essencis, Mr. Albari G. Pedroso, stopped his car beside Carlos Dias
and allegedly told him that three people were watching every move, that they knew who his wife
was, her daily routine, where she worked and who her friends were. Mr. Pedroso allegedly
continued to threaten him by saying that if the company was closed down as a result of his
investigations, the 140 employees would make Carlos Dias pay for it. On 17 March 2004, Carlos
Dias filed a complaint at Police Station No.66 in Piabeta in relation to these alleged threats.
According to further information received, on 31 May 2004, Elisangela Salgueiro Dias was
driving home from work in Rio de Janeiro at approximately 7.30 p.m. when a taxi carrying at
least two passengers approached her car. Several shots were fired at her. One of the shots entered
the front door of the driver's side and the other hit the top of the windshield on the passenger's
side. Elisangela Salgueiro Dias, however, did not suffer any serious injuries as a result, apart
from a bleeding hand. She was helped by two municipal guards and was taken to Police Station
No.9 in the Flamingo district of Rio de Janeiro where her case was registered as an attempted
homicide. As a result of these incidents, it is reported that in early June of the current year, the
State Representative of Rio de Janeiro, Carlos Minc, sent a letter to the Human Rights State
Secretary requesting police protection for both Carlos Dias and his wife. To this date, however,
E/CN.4/2005/10 1/Add. 1
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no police protection has been granted. Carlos Roberto Salgueiro Dias and his wife decided to
leave their home in MagC and the organization they co-founded, Amigos dajustica Ambiental, as
they feared for their safety. Reports indicate that they have now moved to another state. Grave
concern has been expressed for the life and safety of Carlos Roberto Salgueiro Dias and his wife
Elisangela Batista Vieira Salgueiro Dias. It is feared that both are being targeted as a direct result
of their human rights work, in particular their work to investigate the effect on their community
of possible contamination caused by industrial facilities close to Magé.
Communications received
90. By letter dated 1 September 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent on
28 April 2004. Firstly, the Government informed the Special Representative that the criminal
charges against Fernanda Giannasi, although levied against her by a former Minister of State,
nevertheless constituted a private, and not a public, action. Secondly, in response to concerns
about the cessation of Fernanda Giannasi's inspecting activities and her relocation to the São
Paulo offices, the Government stated that these decisions were taken solely for her personal
safety after she became the victim of threatening letters. The Government declared that Fernanda
Giannasi had since requested official protection and had resumed her external inspecting
activities on 15 April 2004. It also indicated that shortly thereafter, on 20 April 2004, an Inter-
ministerial Commission to elaborate a national policy on asbestos was established. Similarly, a
working group on asbestos, composed of labour inspectors and experts of FUNDACENTRO (a
Foundation for Labour Safety), was created by the Ministry of Labour and charged with the task
of examining the impact of asbestos on workers. The Government highlighted that Fernanda
Giannasi was invited to join the aforementioned working group, but to date has not accepted the
invitation.
Observations
91. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its response, but regrets the
absence of replies to several other communications sent. She remains concerned by reports of
killings, attacks and threats of defenders, particularly those working for labour rights. She refers
to her main report to the Commission (E/CN.4/2005/101) for a detailed analysis of the trends in
the situation of human rights defenders in Brazil. Finally, the Special Representative would like
to thank the Government for their favourable response to her request for an invitation in 2005,
and looks forward to her visit.
Burundi
Communications envoyées
92. Le 29 septembre 2004, la Représentante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur
special sur la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, la
Presidente-Rapporteur du Groupe de travail sur la detention arbitraire et le Rapporteur special
sur la torture, a envoyé un appel urgent concernant l'arrestation de Pierre Claver et Célestin
Nsavyimana. Selon les informations reçues, MM. Pierre Claver et Célestin Nsavyimana,
respectivement président et trésorier de la Confédération des syndicats du Burundi (COSYBU)
auraient été arrétés le 24 septembre 2004 au siege de leur organisation a Bujumbura. Deux
E/CN.4/2005/101/Add. 1
Page 35
ordinateurs auraient etc saisis au cours de leur arrestation. A l'heure actuelle, les deux
syndicalistes seraient detenus dans les beaux de la police presidentielle et n'auraient toujours
pas eu accés a leur avocat. Ii a en outre etc rapporte que ces arrestations seraient liees a un
memorandum critique sur l'adoption le 17 septembre 2004 d'une nouvelle constitution par le
Parlement burundais que Pierre Claver et Celestin Nsavyimana avaient soumis a signature aux
membres de la COSYBU. Dans cc document, les deux syndicalistes s'inquietaient du role et de
la place des institutions garantissant les libertes syndicales, les libertes individuelles et la stabilite
politique. Des craintes ont etc exprimees que ces arrestations ne visent a empécher leurs activites
pour la defense des droits de l'homme. Au vu de leur detention au secret, des craintes ont
egalement etc exprimees que ces personnes puissent faire l'objet de torture ou de mauvais
traitements.
Observations
93. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication.
Cambodia
Communications sent
94. On 27 January 2004, the Special Representative sent a letter of allegation concerning the
assassination of Chea Vichea, a human rights defender and president of the Free Trade Union of
Workers of the Kingdom of Cambodia. According to the information received, at 9.20 a.m. on 22
January, Chea Vichea was shot threes times by two unidentified assailants near Lanka Pagoda in
Phnom Penh. He died instantly and the gunmen reportedly escaped. In the light of recent
reported death threats against Chea Vichea, fear has been expressed that he may have been
targeted for his human rights work and in particular, his active role in lobbying for improved
labour conditions in the garment industry.
Observations
95. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication.
Cameroon
Communications envoyées
96. Le 4juin 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec be Rapporteur special sur la
promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression et be Rapporteur special
sur ba torture, a envoye un appeb urgent concernant ba situation de Madeleine Afité, presidente
de b'Action chretienne pour b'abobition de ba torture (ACAT) a Douaba, concernant une
communication qui avait deja etc envoyee be 4 decembre 2003 par be Rapporteur special sur ba
promotion et ba protection du droit a ba biberte d'opinion et d'expression et ba Representante
speciabe du Secretaire general sur ba situation des defenseurs des droits de b'homme, et M. Essale
Bisseck, president d'ACAT-Cameroun. Selon bes informations reçues, be 3 juin 2004, Madeleine
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Page 36
Afité aurait reçu la visite de Me Essale Bisseck, président de l'ACAT-Cameroun a son bureau.
Ce dernier lui aurait remis une convocation lui signifiant qu'ils étaient tous deux convoqués au
commissariat special de la yule de Douala. La convocation n° 02/04, datée du 3 juin 2004 et
signée de la main du commissaire de police Ebanda Phirma, lui demanderait de se rendre au
commissariat des sa reception. Aucun motif ne serait mentionné. Des craintes ont été exprimées
que cette convocation ne soit en relation avec leurs activités de defense des droits de l'homme.
Observations
97. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication.
Central African Republic
Communications envoyées
98. Le 8 juin 2004, la Représentante speciale, conjointement avec la Présidente-Rapporteur
du Groupe de travail sur la detention arbitraire, a envoyé un appel urgent concernant la situation
du vice-président de la Ligue centrafricaine des droits de l'homme (LCDH), Me Goungaye
Wanfiyo. Selon les informations reçues, Me Goungaye Wanfiyo aurait organisé une conference
de presse le 25 mai 2004 pour dénoncer publiquement les dysfonctionnements de lajustice
centrafricaine, notamment les prolongements illégaux des detentions provisoires, en particulier
dans le cas de deux de ses clients, MM. Oumarou et Boykota Zouketia, détenus a la Maison
centrale de Ngaragba a Bangui. M. Oumarou aurait été arrété et mis sous mandat de depot
courant octobre 2003 pour atteinte ala süreté de l'Etat. Par ordonnance du 16 avril 2004, le juge
d'instruction aurait prononcé un non-lieu. La personne serait toujours maintenue en detention en
violation du Code de procedure pénale. M. Boykota Zouketia aurait été arrété par les forces de
l'ordre le 7 avril 2004 et place sous mandat de depot le 27 avril, accuse de détournementde
fonds publics. Contestant le delai illegal de garde a vue, M Goungaye Wanfiyo aurait saisi le
Procureur de la République d'une demande de misc en liberté provisoire qui ne lui aurait pas été
accordée. Le 13 mai 2004, le juge d'instruction aurait ordonné la misc en liberté provisoire
assortie d'un controlejudiciaire. AprCs sa liberation, Boykota Zouketia aurait été de nouveau
arrété le 15 mai 2004 présumément pour les mémes faits. Ii serait depuis détenu illégalement ala
prison de Ngaragba. Le 17 mai, le juge d'instruction se serait dessaisi de l'affaire, apparemment
en réponse aux pressions exercées sur lui par le parquet général. A la suite de la conference de
presse de Me Goungaye Wanfiyo, le Procureur général prCs la cour d'appel de Bangui aurait
répondu a ces dénonciations par voie de presse, menaçant Me Goungaye Wanfiyo de saisir le
Conseil de l'Ordre <>.
Observations
99. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication.
Chad
E/CN.4/2005/101/Add. 1
Page 37
Communications envoyées
100. Le 1 er mars 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special sur
la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression et le Rapporteur
special sur la torture, a envoyc une lettre d'allegation concernant Tchanguiz Vathankha, Iranien
d'origine installe au Tchad depuis de nombreuses annees, directeur de la radio privee Brakoss a
Moissala qui diffuse des emissions relatives aux droits de l'homme. Selon les informations
reçues, le 9 fevrier 2004, Tchanguiz Vathankha aurait etc arrête suite a la diffusion sur les ondes
radio d'une interview de Saleh Kebzabo, chef du parti de l'Union nationale pour le
developpement et le renouveau (UMDR), traitant de la situation socio-economique au Tchad.
Selon les informations reçues, Tchanguiz Vathankha aurait etc torture par la police locale au
cours de sa detention. Les coups qu'il aurait reçus ala tête, auxjambes et au thorax auraient
provoque une hemorragie a l' il et des dommages a la retine. Le medecin de l'hopital de
Moissala qui l'aurait examine aurait decrete que son etat de sante serait critique. Ii aurait etc
detenu pendant 48 heures a la prison de la prefecture de Moissala, oü tout soin medical lui aurait
etc refuse, puis remis en liberte le 11 fevrier 2004. Radio Brakoss aurait etc fermee sur ordre du
prefet du Bahr Sara, puis reouverte le 16 fevrier avec une programmation limitee.
101. Le 27juillet 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special
sur la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, a envoyc un appel
urgent concernant Evariste Ngaralbaye et Allahissem Ibn Miangar, journalistes a la radio FM-
Liberte, crece par des ONG independantes de defense des droits de l'homme. Selon les
informations communiquces, plusieurs tracts signes par des <>, dont le plus
recent date du 9 juillet 2004, auraient etc envoycs au siege de la radio et distribues dans les rues
avoisinantes. Ces tracts menaceraient explicitement de mort les deuxjournalistes et leur
reprocheraient d'appeler leurs auditeurs a la revolte. Ii est allegue que ces menaces feraient suite
a une interview du musicien ivoirien Tiken Djah Fakoly realisee le 30 mai 2004 par les deux
journalistes et dans laquelle il avait formule de fortes critiques a l'encontre de certains
gouvernements africains. Bien que ces faits aient etc denonces ala police, il semblerait
qu'aucune enquête n'ait etc ouverte.
Observations
102. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communications. The Special Representative
regrets that the Government of Chad has not replied to her request for an invitation dated 8 July
2002 and reiterated on 2 December 2004. She encourages the Government to favourably review
her request.
Chile
Comunicaciones enviadas
103. El 8 de enero de 2004, la Representante Especial enviô un llamamiento urgente con
respecto al señor Rodrigo Lopez Barrera, presidente de TravesChile, agrupaciôn que trabaja
en la defensa de los derechos de las personas transgenero en Aconcagua. Segün la informacion
recibida, el 16 de diciembre de 2003 habrIa recibido una amenaza de muerte telefonica anônima.
E/CN.4/2005/1O 1/Add. 1
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El 18 de diciembre, segün la informacion recibida, mientras caminaba por la calle en San Felipe,
al este de Santiago, un desconocido habrIa realizado varios disparos contra el, y el 20 de
diciembre, habrIa sido seguido por un automovil. Se teme que el ataque en contra de el esté
relacionado con la documentacion y la denuncia por su parte de casos de abusos policiales contra
personas transgéneras. Es el segundo asalto sufrido por miembros de esta agrupaciôn.
104. El 23 de agosto de 2004, la Representante Especial envIo un llamamiento urgentejunto
con el Relator Especial sobre la situaciôn de los derechos humanos y las libertades
fundamentales de los indIgenas en relacion con Juana Calfunao Paillalef, lIder de una
comunidad indIgena mapuche del municipio de Cunco de la IX Region. Juana Calfunao Paillalef
es miembro fhndador de la organizaciOn no gubernamental ComisiOn Etica Contra la Tortura y
trabaja en la promociOn y protecciOn de los derechos de su comunidad. Segün las informaciones
recibidas, el 26 de junio de 2004 se habrIa desencadenado un incendio en su casa que habrIa
quedado completamente arrasada. Tras el incendio, se habrIa descubierto el cadaver calcinado de
su t b Basilio Cofloenao, lIder de la comunidad vecina de Juan Pichunlafi Se alega que Basilio
Cofloenao habrIa sido asesinado en otro lugar y que su cadaver habrIa sido trasladado después al
lugar del incendio. Basilio Cofloenao y uno de sus sobrinos habrIan recibido amenazas de
terratenientes que habrIan pedido a la familia que abandonara su propiedad. Se informa que los
afectados habrIan denunciado estos hechos a la policla nacional de la ciudad de Los Laureles y
ante el Fiscal Regional, que sin embargo no habrIan realizado ninguna investigaciOn. Se informa
también que durante el mes dejulio de 2004 Juana Calfhnao Paillalefy su familia habrIan sido
objeto de una campafla de intimidaciOn que habrIa resultado en el asalto a piedras de su casa y
disparos al aire delante de su hogar. Ademas de estos recientes actos de hostigamientos, se alega
que en el mes de mayo de 2000, Juana Calfunao Paillalef, estando en los primeros meses de
gestaciOn, habrIa sido detenida por la policla local durante tres dIas durante cual periodo habrIa
sufrido agresiones a manos de los carabineros que habrIan provocado un aborto. La comunidad
habrIa presentado una demanda contra los latifhndistas en el Primer Juzgado Civil de la ciudad
de Temuco bajo el rol N° 94055-99.
105. El 22 de octubre de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre
la promociOn del derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, el Relator Especial sobre la
situaciOn de los derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentales de los indIgenas, el Relator
Especial sobre la tortura y el Relator Especial sobre ejecuciones extrajudiciales, sumarias o
arbitrarias, enviO otro llamamiento urgente en relaciOn con Juana Calfunao Paillalef. Segün las
nuevas informaciones recibidas, el 26 de septiembre de 2004, un funcionario de la CooperaciOn
Nacional de Desarrollo IndIgena (CONADI) habrIa amenazado a Juana Calfunao Paillalefy a su
hija de 17 aflos diciéndoles “ quieres que te queme viva ahora?”y “voy a buscar el arma para
matarlos”. Se alega también que más tarde, ese mismo dIa, alguien habrIa disparado varias veces
contra la vivienda provisional en la que Juana Calfunao y su familia se habban refugiado después
del presunto incendio provocado que habrIa resultado en la destrucciOn de su casa y la muerte de
su t b. Se teme que estas amenazas en contra de Juana Calfunao Paillalef y su familia puedan
estar relacionadas con su trabajo en defensa de los derechos de su comunidad ind bgena. Ademas,
se expresa temores por la seguridad y la vida de Juana Calfunao Paillalefy sus familiares.
Comunicaciones recibidas
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106. Por carta de fecha de 2 de abril de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO a la comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 8 de enero de 2004 con respecto al caso de Rodrigo
Lopez Barrera. Las autoridades habrian determinado que no podrian estabiecer la veracidad
entera de ninguna de las denuncias afectadas; no solo por faita de pruebas, si no tambien existe
una disparidad de opiniOn en lo referido a las circunstancias. Asimismo, un contacto permanente
habria sido realizado entre ci comisario de la Unidad de los Andes y ci citado ciudadano via
telefono y reuniones. Una vigilancia especial en ci lugar de su domiciiio habria sido también
puesta a su disposiciOn por ci Comisario de la Unidad. El Gobierno informO que diseflO ci
Proyecto “AtenciOn de Salud a Colectivos Vuinerabies a la DiscriminaciOn Social” a través dci
que se realizaron taileres de sensibiiizaciOn para optimizar la atenciOn médica dirigida a usuarios
transgéneros. Ademas, ci Gobierno asegurO que seguirá atento ala situaciOn de las minorias.
107. Por carta fechada ci 27 de diciembre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO a las comunicaciones
transmitidas por la Representante Especial referente a la seguridad de Juana Calfunao Paillalef.
Respecto a las alegaciones de asaito por carabineros presentadas por la citada ciudadana en ci
aflo 2000, ci Gobierno constatO que Juana Caifhnao Paiiiaiefhabia sido detenida por agredir
fisicamente a un carabinero civil y no al contrario. Segün ci Gobierno, Juana Caifunao Pailialef
no fue agredida por carabineros. DeciarO también que no existian pruebas comprobatorias para
demostrar que sufriO un aborto espontáneo como consecuencia de este presunto ataque. Sin
embargo, ci Gobierno informO que en la actualidad, la Fiscalia Militar está investigando esta
denuncia. Con respecto a la detenciOn de la denunciante en ci aflo 2002 como consecuencia de
una ocupaciOn de la GobernaciOn de Cautin, ci Gobierno informO que este hecho está siendo
investigado en la Fiscalia Militar. En junio de 2004, tras ci incendio de la vivienda de Juana
Caifunao Pailialef en ci cual se habria encontrado ci cuerpo de Basiiio Cofloenao, lonko de la
comunidad indigena Juan Pichuniaf, la denunciante habia manifestado que ci incendio the
producto de la persecuciOn de los latifundistas con los cuales ella habria mantenido disputas
judiciales de cercamientos. El Gobierno confirmO que una causa, junto con dos quereilas, habria
sido formada, pero hasta la fecha no habria sido ningün pronunciamiento oficial por parte de la
fiscalia. Igualmente, ci Gobierno informO que Juana Caifunao Pailialef esta alejada dci Consejo
de Todas las Tierras y que no estaria siendo apoyada en ninguna de sus demandas por esta
organizaciOn indigena. Segün ci Gobierno, su vincuiaciOn más fuerte, es con la comunidad
UniOn Temuiemu de la comuna de Traiguén, pero aün dentro de la cual habria generado division
y probiemas organizacionaics, sobre todo en la distribuciOn de recursos entregados por los
programas dci Gobierno. Finaimente, respecto al tema indigena en general, ci Gobierno reiterO
sus compromisos y avances, entre elios una nueva politica de Estado a favor de los pueblos
indigenas.
Observaciones
108. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its response in connection with
Rodrigo LOpez Barrera, but regrets that she has yet to receive responses to her other
communications. She acknowledges the steps taken by the Government in investigating reported
violations but remains concerned by the inconclusive outcome of the investigations. She is
particularly concerned about the safety of human rights defenders working on indigenous issues.
China
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Communications sent
109. On 16 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, sent a follow-up urgent appeal
concerning the situation of Jiang Meili, the wife of Zheng Enchong, a human rights defender
who was imprisoned in October 2003, and the situation of Shen Ting, a campaigner on behalf of
Shanghai residents displaced by urban developments, who has also been advocating the release
of Zheng Enchong. According to the information received, on 28 February 2004, Jiang Meili,
who had travelled to Beijing to petition the National People's Congress on behalf of her husband,
was reportedly detained by five women and two men who allegedly entered her hotel room,
bound and gagged her and took her to a hotel in Hubei's Canzhou City. The following day she
was reportedly taken to another hotel on Hutai road. According to the information received,
Jiang Meili was not informed of the reason for her detention and the men and women, reportedly
officials of the Shanghai Representative Office in Beijing, the Shanghai Letters and Petitions
Office and the Shanghai Municipal Public Security Bureau (PSB), did not present an arrest
warrant. She was allegedly released on 1 March. It is reported that since then, she has been under
police surveillance and on 4 March was prevented from leaving her home to visit her husband.
When she protested, she was allegedly taken to the Guoquing Lu Public Security Bureau and was
released later that day. It is also reported that the authorities have confiscated her two mobile
phones and have also reportedly disconnected her home phone line. According to additional
information received, the mother of Shen Ting, Mo Zhujie, was reportedly abducted on 5 March
2004 while visiting a displaced resident. According to the information received, 11 individuals,
some wearing police uniforms and one who was allegedly identified as a member of the Shimen
Erlu Public Security Bureau, reportedly entered the premises and forced Mo Zhujie into a police
vehicle. They allegedly put a plastic bag over her head and threatened to kill her. She was
reportedly released later that night. Concern has been expressed that Jiang Meili, Shen Ting and
Mo Zhujie may have been targeted for their human rights work, and in particular for
campaigning against the reportedly arbitrary imprisonment of Zheng Enchong. Fears have been
expressed for the life and physical integrity of the above-mentioned individuals
110. On 5 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and
protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special Rapporteur on the
question of torture sent an urgent appeal concerning Ding Zilin, Zhang Xianling and iluang
Jinping. It is alleged that on 28 March 2004, the three women, who belong to a group called the
“Tiananmen Mothers”, were detained in an attempt to prevent them from commemorating the
15th anniversary of the June 1989 pro-democracy protests in Tiananmen Square. It is reported
that members of this group have campaigned on behalf of their children and other relatives killed
there almost 15 years ago. The teenage sons of Ding Zilin and Zhang Xinliang, and Huang
Jinpin's husband, had reportedly been killed at Tiananmen Square. No information on the
whereabouts or on possible charges against the women is available.
111. On 23 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-up
urgent appeal concerning the situation of Wang Jinbo, a political prisoner. According to the
information received, Wang Jinbo was sentenced to four years imprisonment in December 2001
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on charges of “inciting the subversion of State power”. It is reported that in 2003, he was
subjected to repeated beatings by other inmates, and that prison authorities had failed to take
action against the perpetrators. An investigation into the beatings has allegedly not been carried
out. He was also reportedly held in solitary confinement for several months in 2003. According
to new information received, Wang Jinbo is now permitted visits by his family, although he is
reportedly still not permitted to make telephone calls home. He has reportedly continued to
conduct several hunger strikes to protest against his sentencing and his treatment in prison. It is
reported that as a result, his health is deteriorating and it is not known whether he is being
allowed access to medical treatment. His family have reportedly applied for his release on
medical parole. Concern is expressed about the physical integrity of Wang Jinbo. Concern is
further expressed that Wang Jinbo has been imprisoned for his work in defence of human rights
and in particular for having called, through articles posted on the Internet, for a re-evaluation of
the events surrounding the June 1989 pro-democracy protests in Tianamen Square.
112. On 2 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-up
urgent appeal concerning reports that several human rights defenders and pro-democracy
activists have been recently placed under de facto house arrest, presumably to prevent them from
publicly marking the 15th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square repression on 4 June 2004. It is
reported that among those allegedly placed under house arrest are Liu Xiaobo, one of the
country's leading human rights figures who strongly criticized the “subversion” charges typically
brought against most of the country's cyber-dissidents, ilu Jia, an activist who denounced the
inaction of officials in the face of the spread of AIDS in China, and Ding Zilin, leader of the
“Mothers of Tiananmen”, a group of mothers whose children were killed during the 1989
repression. According to the information received, the police have been surrounding the homes
of well-known activists for several days, preventing them de facto from meeting with journalists
or with each other. It is also alleged that their telephone lines are disconnected as soon as they
have conversations that are deemed to be politically “sensitive”, and that their Internet access has
been interrupted.
113. On 14 July 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and
protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent appeal concerning
Zhang Youren, the leader of a farmers' group in Tangshan, Hebei province, who organized
peaceful protests against the flooding of farmland to make way for a reservoir. According to
reports, Zhang Youren was arrested at his home on 6 July 2004 at around 10.00 a.m. by public
security police officers. The police reportedly searched his home and beat and arrested his wife,
Wang Yushu. It is alleged that Zhang Youren's detention could be linked to the visit to Tangshan
by Premier Wen Jiabao, scheduled for 8 to 10 July, during which the relocated farmers had been
planning to petition him to intervene in their case. The arrest of Zhang Youren is believed to be
an attempt to forestall any such action.
114. On 16 July 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and
protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special Rapporteur on the right
of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health and
the Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Mr. Wang
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Guofeng, and his wife, Ms. Li Suzhi, both HIV-positive. According to the allegations received,
they were arrested in Shangqiu city, Henan province, on 12 July 2004, when they were about to
travel to Beijing to petition the National Health Department. They wanted to protest about the
inadequate health care and other services for those infected with HP//AIDS in their city. In
particular, they were concerned that they had not received the medical treatment that had been
promised by the central authorities. They were also concerned that the local authorities had
recently closed down the school of their children, which had been set up by a local HIV/AIDS
activist for children whose parents were HP/-positive or had died of AIDS. The school was
reportedly closed after its founder told the authorities that he was going to Thailand to participate
in the 15th International Conference on HIV/AIDS. Wang Guofeng and Li Suzhi are currently
detained in Shangqiu city. In the light of reports according to which people with HP//AIDS
detained in Henan province in the past had been beaten while in police custody, concern is
expressed that Wang Guofeng and Li Suzhi may be at risk of torture or other forms of ill-
treatment. Concern is also expressed about their physical and mental integrity if they do not
receive adequate medical treatment during their detention.
115. On 12 August 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Wang Bingzhang, aged 57. According
to the allegations received, Wang Bingzhang, a human rights and pro-democracy activist, was
sentenced to life imprisonment in January 2003 and has been kept in solitary confinement in
Shaoguan prison ever since. Up until June 2004, he has repeatedly been denied visits by family
members. A senior prison official allegedly indicated that he was denied the visits as a
punishment for bad behaviour. Wang Bingzhang reportedly suffered a stroke in January 2004 as
a result of a hunger strike he had undertaken to protest his conditions. He has extreme difficulty
in walking and appeared disoriented and confused when a family member visited him in June. In
addition, he suffers from gastritis, phlebitis and varicose veins. On 9 May 2003, the Working
Group on Arbitrary Detention had declared that the detention of Wang Bingzhang was arbitrary.
In view of the alleged prolonged detention in solitary confinement and reports of his poor
medical condition, concern is expressed about the physical and mental integrity of Wang
Bingzhang if he does not receive prompt and adequate medical attention.
116. On 19 October 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Yan Zhengxue, a human
rights defender,who has initiated an international petition campaign against the Re-Education
Through Labour (RTL) system. According to the allegations received, , Yan Zhengxue was
arrested by the Zhejiang Province State Security Department police in Taizhou City, Zhejiang
province, on 14 September 2004 at 2.35 p.m. and taken away to an unknown location. Concerns
have been expressed that the reported arrest and detention of Yan Zhengxue may be an attempt
to prevent him from carrying out human rights activities, in particular in connection with the
meeting of the Central Party Committee of the 16th Party Congress. In view of his alleged
incommunicado detention, concern is expressed that he may be at risk of torture or other forms
of ill-treatment.
117. On 26 October 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Mr. Zhang Bo, Ms.
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Wang Jie, and Mr. Cai Shaojie, three Falun Gong practitioners, and Mr. Li Weiji. According to
the allegations received, Zhang Bo is detained at an unknown location, Wang Jie and Cai Shaojie
are detained in the Dabei prison, and Li Weiji is detained in the Panjin prison. It is reported that
the police broke both Li Weiji's arms and caused him a lumbar inter-vertebral disc protrusion.
On 5 March 2003, these persons were sentenced to imprisonment by the Yinzhou District Court
in Tiding, Liaoning province, for collecting evidence of the persecution of Falun Gong
practitioners in that province (i.e. persecution by the local authorities, including local
governments and local police stations, related to the use of detention, torture and forced labour).
Li Weiji was also convicted of assisting Falun Gong practitioners in going abroad. Zhang Bo and
Wang Jie were sentenced to seven, Cai Shaojie to four and Li Weiji to eight years'
imprisonment. In view of the allegations, concern is expressed that Zhang Bo, Wang Jie and Li
Weiji are at risk of torture or other forms of ill-treatment. Moreover, concern is expressed that
the imprisonment of the four individuals is an attempt to prevent their activities to protect the
human rights of Falun Gong practitioners in Lianoing province.
118. On 1 December 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the
Special Rapporteur on the independence ofjudges and lawyers, sent a follow-up urgent appeal
concerning Mr. Zheng Enchong, a Shanghai lawyer involved in the defence of economic and
social rights of displaced persons, who is currently detained at Shanghai's Tilanqiao prison.
According to the information received, since being sentenced on 28 October 2003, Zheng
Enchong is in prison and denied access to his lawyer, which reportedly resulted in his not being
able to file an appeal application against his sentence before the Shanghai Supreme People's
Court. His wife reportedly filed an application on his behalf, but the Court has not acknowledged
it. Furthermore, the director of the Shanghai's Judicial Bureau and Prisons Bureau, Mr. Miao
Xiaobao, reportedly visited Zheng Enchong in detention on several occasions, telling him that if
he admitted wrongdoing, his three-year sentence would be reduced by one year. However, Zheng
Enchong refused to do so. Moreover, according to the information received, in spite of his
relatively light sentence, Mr. Zheng is kept in a high security prison where he is obliged to share
his 3.5 m2 cell with two other prisoners. In addition, Mr. Zheng's repeated requests to be
allowed to telephone his family have consistently been denied. Concern is expressed that the
denial of Mr. Zheng Enchong's right to see a lawyer and the right to appeal his sentence may be
intended to prevent him from resuming his work as a lawyer who defends persons displaced
from their homes by real estate projects. Such concerns are reinforced by the alleged attempts to
induce Zheng Enchong to repudiate his work in defence of human rights, both by offering a
reduction of his sentence and by aggravating the conditions of his detention.
Communications received
119. By letter dated 26 May 2004, the Government replied to the urgent action sent on 16
March 2004 concerning Jiang Meili, Zheng Enchong, Shen Ting and Mo Zhujie. The
Government informed that it had conducted diligent inquiries into the matters raised and made
the following reply, reproduced in its entirety as requested by the Government.
120. “Basic facts 1. Jiang Meili, female, age 50, from Shanghai, was displeased that the law-
enforcement authorities had punished her husband, Zheng Enchong, for breaking the Chinese
criminal law and falsified news reports time and time again, starting rumours and vilifying the
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Chinese authorities. In response, the Shanghai municipal petitions department engaged with her
in some educative mediation, on the basis of the relevant laws. In so doing, the public security
organs did not apply any kind of coercion to her, nor did they confiscate any of her private
belongings. The account given in the communication does not tally with the facts.
121. “2. Mo Zhujie, female, age 65, a retired engineer from a Shanghai heavy industrial
machinery plant. Her daughter, Shen Ting, aged 38, lives in Hong Kong. Recently, Mo and Shen
have repeatedly spread rumours, influencing the foreign media and putting pressure on the
Government in order to maximise their interests in a dispute over the demolition of their home.
From March 2004 onwards, to create an impression, Mo has deliberately gone into hiding and
the report has been put about abroad by her daughter, Shen Ting, that she has gone missing. On
investigation, it transpires that the claims Mo was bundled by 11 individuals into a police vehicle
and so forth do not tally with the facts.
122. “A clar fication The Chinese Government guarantees citizens' freedom of speech in
accordance with the law. The Constitution states that “citizens of the People's Republic of China
enjoy freedom of speech, of the press, of assembly, of association, of procession and of
demonstration”. There are petition offices at the National People's Congress and at every level of
government specially to deal with citizens' criticisms and appeals to the Government and give
the general public an unobstructed channel for making their views known. At the same time,
Chinese law stipulates that in exercising their freedom of speech, citizens must not harm the
legitimate rights and interests of the State, society or other people. Even the Universal
Declaration of Human Rights clearly stipulates that in exercising their rights and freedoms,
people are subject to the restrictions laid down by law. The rumours spread and the disturbance
caused by Jiang, Mo and Shen have nothing to do with freedom of speech and opinion. The
Chinese Ministry of Justice took no coercive action against the three women, and their personal
rights and other legitimate rights and interests were effectively guaranteed.”
123. By letter dated 10 June 2004, the Government replied to the urgent action sent on 5 April
2004 concerning Ding Zilin, Zhang Xianling and iluang Jinping. The Government informed
that it had carefully investigated the matters referred to in this letter and made the following
reply, reproduced in its entirety as requested by the Government.
124. “Basic facts Ding Zilin, Zhang Xianling and Huang Jinping colluded with foreign
organizations and jointly plotted to use such fraudulent means as the use of false labelling of
goods and the forging of shippers' names to bring illegal goods into China; they also engaged in
activities that were harmfhl to State security, in violation of the Customs Law of the People's
Republic of China and the applicable provisions of the Security Law of the People's Republic of
China and the rules for its implementation. The relevant authorities, acting in accordance with
the law, placed Ding and the others under investigation and determined that they were engaging
in illegal activities. They have since made a statement of repentance and have been released from
investigation; they have now returned home.
125. “Explanatory remarks (1) The Chinese Government guarantees citizens' right to freedom
of expression and association, in accordance with the law. The Chinese Constitution clearly
stipulates that “citizens of the People's Republic of China enjoy freedom of speech, of the press,
of assembly, of association, of procession and of demonstration”. The Standing Committee of the
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National People's Congress and all levels of government have established offices to receive
communications from the public and especially to address any criticisms of or complaints about
the Government that citizens might raise, thus allowing the masses to make their views known
without impediment. In order to guarantee citizens' right to freedom of association and
strengthen the administration of associations, the Chinese Government has promulgated three
sets of laws and regulations dealing specifically with the administration and registration of public
associations. There are more than 200, 000 such associations registered with the civil authorities
in all localities. Public associations are an important channel through which Chinese citizens can
participate in the running of State and social affairs, and play a positive and irreplaceable role in
all aspects of the country's economic and social life. Nowhere in the world do duties exist
without rights, and nowhere do rights exist without duties. In exercising his or her rights and
freedoms, every individual must respect the law and fulfil his or her duties. China's legislation
guarantees citizens' right to freedom of expression and association, but at the same time
stipulates that in exercising such rights and freedoms citizens may not harm the legitimate
interests of the State, society, the community or other people. In addition, while citizens are
entrusted with the right to freedom of expression and association and those rights are protected,
there are standards set for actions by citizens that involve speech and association, and restrictions
are placed on actions that harm the legitimate interests of the State, society, the community and
others; such actions must also be fully consistent with the provisions of the relevant international
human rights instruments. The investigation of the actions of Ding and the others conducted by
the relevant departments was based solely on those individuals's actions and has absolutely
nothing to do with freedom of expression or assembly and does not constitute any kind of
arbitrary detention. (2) China was one of the first States to become a party to the Convention
against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. It has
consistently sought to prohibit torture and seriously performs the tasks required of it under the
Convention, banning torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. The
Chinese Constitution contains clear provisions protecting the right of citizens to personal
security. In addition, the relevant provisions of various laws including the Criminal Law, the
Criminal Procedure Law, the Police Law and the Prison Law of the People's Republic of China
all clearly stipulate that it is strictly forbidden to beat or harass persons in detention or to subject
them to corporal punishment or ill-treatment. Under the Provisions on Procedures for the
Handling of Administrative Cases by the Public Security Organs, evidence obtained illegally by
the public security authorities in their law enforcement work is considered to be inadmissible; the
Provisions also and clearly stipulate that, in their law enforcement work, the public security
authorities must show respect for the human rights of accused persons. In taking compulsory
measures in respect of Ding and the two others the relevant authorities acted strictly in
accordance with the law and conscientiously protected their legitimate rights and interests; the
three were not tortured or subjected to any other inhumane treatment. The allegations in the letter
do not tally with the facts.”
126. By letter dated 5 July 2004, the Government replied to the urgent action sent on 23 April
2004 concerning Wang Jinbo. The Government informed that it had carefhlly investigated the
matters referred to in this letter and made the following reply, reproduced in its entirety as
requested by the Government.
127. “Basic facts Wang Jinbo is a male from Shandong Province born in October 1972. On 4
December 2001 he was sentenced by the Linzhe Intermediate People's Court in Shandong to
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four years' imprisonment (from 24 May 2001 to 23 May 2005) for the crime of inciting
subversion of the political authority of the State. He is currently serving his sentence in the
Shandong No. 1 prison. The letter alleges that in 2003 Wang was subjected to repeated beating
by other inmates and was held in solitary confinement for several months. An investigation has
revealed that Wang was not involved with any fights with other prisoners during that time. On 19
November 2003 Wang was ordered by the prison administration, in accordance with the law, to
spend 14 days in solitary confinement for having deliberately smashed glass and disrupted the
normal prison routine. Wang subsequently acknowledged his error and undertook self-criticism
in writing, so that the prison authorities released him from solitary confinement one day early.
After Wang was incarcerated the prison immediately allowed him to see members of his family
once a week. During “atypical” periods the prison authorities still arranged for him to speak to
members of his family by telephone. The allegation in the letter that he was not permitted to
make telephone calls home is inconsistent with the facts. The letter further alleges that Wang
went on several hunger strikes and that his health is deteriorating. In fact, while Wang has
frequently said that he was going on a hunger strike, he has never actually done so, and his body
weight has increased from 64 kilograms at the time he entered prison to 74 kilos at present.
Currently his health is excellent; he has never shown any illness at his annual medical check-up
and his family has never applied for him to be released on medical parole.
128. “Explanatory remarks (1) The Chinese Constitution and legislation clearly stipulate that
citizens enjoy freedom of expression. Article 35 of the Constitution stipulates that “citizens of
the People's Republic of China enjoy freedom of speech, of the press, of assembly, of
association, of procession and of demonstration”. The Chinese Government, acting in accordance
with the law, protects these rights and freedoms. In exercising these rights and enjoying these
freedoms, however, citizens must assume their corresponding duties under the law. While the
Universal Declaration of Human Rights recognizes that citizens enjoy all sorts of rights, it
clearly stipulates that in the exercise of their rights and freedoms all persons shall be subject to
such limitations as are determined by the law. In the present case, Wang was convicted because
his actions harmed the political authority of the State, for where there are laws they must be
observed. The case has nothing to do with the freedom of expression and opinion. (2) China was
one of the first States to become a party to the Convention against Torture, and the banning of
torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment has been one of China's a
consistent positions. Legislation such as the Criminal Law and the Police Law contain extremely
strict provisions relating to the ban on torture, and they seek to prevent and punish any State
employees, particularly those in the justice system, who practise torture. While Wang serves his
sentence his legitimate rights and interests are being thoroughly guaranteed.”
129. By letter dated 11 November 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on
14 July 2004 concerning Zhang Youren. Unfortunately, the English translation was not
available in time to be examined and included in this report, and the communication will thus be
reported next year.
130. By letter dated 11 November 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on
12 August 2004 concerning Wang Bingzhang. Unfortunately, the English translation was not
available in time to be examined and included in this report, and the reply will thus be reported
next year.
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131. By letter dated 31 December 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on
26 October 2004 concerning Mr. Zhang Bo, Ms. Wang Jie, Mr. Cai Shaojie, and Mr. Li Weiji.
Unfortunately, the English translation was not available in time to be examined and included in
this report, and the reply will thus be reported next year.
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
132. By letter dated 22 December 2003, the Government replied to the letter of allegation sent
jointly with the Special Rapporteur on the question of torture on 5 August 2003 concerning
iluang Qi and Zeng Li, and to the letter of allegation sent jointly with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture on 8 December 2003 concerning iluang Qi and Zeng Li.
The Government informed that it had carefully investigated the matters referred to in these letters
and made the following reply, reproduced in its entirety as requested by the Government.
133. “Basic facts Huang Qi is a male born in April 1963. On 5 June 2000 he was detained in
accordance with the law and subsequently arrested on suspicion of inciting subversion of the
political authority of the State. On 13 February 2001 the Chengdu intermediate people's court,
acting in accordance with the law, heard Huang's case in camera. During the trial it became
impossible to proceed owing to Huang's state of health, and the trial was postponed. After the
defendant's health was restored, hearing of the case by the Chengdu intermediate people's court
was resumed. On 9 May 2003 the Chengdu intermediate people's court, acting in accordance
with the law, issued its verdict, sentencing Huang to five years' imprisonment and one year's
deprivation of political rights for inciting subversion of the political authority of the State. Huang
contested this verdict and filed an appeal. On 7 August 2003 the Sichuan higher people's court
issued a second decision upholding the original sentence. Huang is currently sewing his sentence
in the Chuanzhong prison in Sichuan province.
134. “Explanatory remarks (a) Under the Constitution of the People's Republic of China
citizens enjoy extensive freedoms, including freedom of expression, of the press, of assembly
and of association. However, when exercising these freedoms and rights, they may not harm the
interests or security of the State nor may they resort to rumour mongering or defamation to incite
subversion of the State's political authority. Huang was arrested solely because he was suspected
of publishing articles at his centre in which he used rumour and defamation to incite subversion
of the political authority of the State, in violation of the law. Surely any country would punish
acts that undermined its political authority. (b) China was one of the first countries to become a
party to the United Nations Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading
Treatment or Punishment. China's consistent position has been one of opposition to those
scourges. China has established a consummate body of internal human rights legislation aimed at
protecting and promoting the rights of persons in detention or serving sentences, including the
right to visitation and other humanitarian treatment. Laws and regulations such as the Criminal
Law, the Criminal Procedure Law, the Prisons Law, the Prison Regulations and the Police Law
of the People's Republic of China afford thorough protection for the rights of offenders and
persons in detention; they clearly prohibit the beating, verbal harassment, corporal punishment or
ill-treatment of such persons, and the justice system does not tolerate any violation of those
rights. While he was in custody in Chengdu, Huang stabbed himself with a pen to avoid being
investigated. He was promptly given treatment by the police in order to save his life. In dealing
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with Huang's ease the Chinese public security authorities followed judicial procedures
scrupulously; Huang's legal rights were fully respected, and the issue of his alleged torture
simply does not arise. (c) During the time Huang was in prison, his family members came on
numerous occasions to bring him money and gifts, but they never requested permission to see
him. No family member was denied an opportunity to visit. At the time of his trial, the two
lawyers assigned to Huang, Gao Xiaoping and Fan Jun, saw him in prison on a total of four
occasions 3 January 2000, 11 September 2000, 9 February 2001 and 19 May 2003.
During the trial Huang and his counsel took part in the proceedings and fully exercised his right
to a defence. The allegation that Huang's attorneys saw him only once after his arrest
in June 2000 is simply hearsay. (d) Because this case touched on State secrets, the hearings were
held in camera, in accordance with the law. In both trials, however, the verdict was read out in an
open courtroom, in accordance with the law, and during the three days leading up to the verdict
the court issued public announcements abroad indicating the time and place of the judgement
hearing. Therefore the allegation that neither Huang's judgement nor his sentencing were open
does not tally with the facts.”
135. By letter dated 2 March 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent jointly
with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion
and expression on 3 December 2003 concerning Zheng Enchong. The Government informed
that it had carefully investigated the matters referred to in these letters and made the following
reply, reproduced in its entirety as requested by the Government.
136. “Basic facts Zheng Enchong, male, is a native of Shanghai. He is a former employee of
the Minjian law firm in Shanghai (who did not pass his annual qualifying review); on 6 June
2003 he was placed in criminal detention on suspicion of illegally transferring State secrets
abroad, and on 18 June he was arrested. On 15 August 2003 the Second Branch of the Shanghai
People's Procuratorate initiated proceedings against Zheng in the Second Intermediate People's
Court of Shanghai Municipality, on charges of illegally transferring State secrets abroad. On 26
August the court heard the case in camera, in accordance with article 152, paragraph 1, of the
Criminal Procedure Law of the People's Republic of China, because the case involved State
secrets. The court's investigation revealed that in May 2003 Zheng had handed over to a foreign
organization materials that were the property of the State. In the latter part of May, Zheng had
sent official documents relating to the handling of an emergency by the Shanghai public security
authorities by fax and e-mail to entities outside China. The Second Intermediate People's Court
of Shanghai Municipality found that Zheng's actions violated article 111 of the Criminal Law of
the People's Republic of China and constituted the crime of illegally transferring State secrets
out of the country; on 28 October 2003 he was sentenced to three years' imprisonment.
Following his sentencing, Zheng filed an appeal with the Supreme People's Court of Shanghai
Municipality. Upon hearing the case the Supreme People's Court found that the decision of the
court of first instance and the facts of the case were clear, the evidence was conclusive and
sufficient, the judgement had been accurate and the severity of the penalty was appropriate; on
18 December 2003 the court rejected the appeal and upheld the original verdict. During the
proceedings in the courts of both first and second instance Zheng's counsel fully exercised his
right to a defence and other procedural rights.
137. “Explanatory remarks China's Constitution and legislation clearly stipulate that citizens
enjoy the right to freedom of opinion and expression. Article 35 of the Constitution of the
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People's Republic of China stated that “citizens of the People's Republic of China enjoy freedom
of speech, of the press, of assembly, of association, of procession and of demonstration”. In
exercising these rights and enjoying these freedoms, however, citizens must assume their
corresponding duties under the law. While the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
recognizes that citizens enjoy all sorts of rights, it clearly stipulates that in the exercise of their
rights and freedoms all persons shall be subject to such limitations as are determined by the law.
The present case is a criminal case involving the illegal transfer of State secrets abroad. Any
restraining measures taken by China's judicial authorities in respect of Zheng were taken solely
on the basis of his crime and were consistent with the relevant provisions of China's domestic
legislation and international human rights conventions; the case has nothing to do with the
freedom of opinion and expression.”
Observations
138. The Special Representative thanks the Government for responding to most of her
communications, which attests to its willingness to cooperate with her mandate. She welcomes
the release of Ding Zilin, Zhang Xianling and iluang Jinping. She remains deeply concerned
by reports of arbitrary arrests and detention, including incommunicado, and torture and ill-
treatment of defenders. The Special Representative refers to her main report to the Commission
on Human Rights (E/CN.4/2005/1O1) for a detailed analysis of the trends in the situation of
human rights defenders in China.
Colombia
Comunicaciones enviadas
139. El 30 diciembre 2003, la Representante Especial enviô un llamamiento urgente con
respecto a la organizaciôn humanitaria Peace Brigade International (PBI), particularmente dos de
sus miembros, David Raboso y Dorotea Timmer, que habrIan sido victimas de hechos de
intimidacion. Segün las informaciones recibidas, el 9 de diciembre de 2003, hacia las dos de la
tarde, en un sitio ubicado entre Mangolo y Tierra Amarilla, David Raboso, de nacionalidad
espaflola, y Dorotea Timmer, de nacionalidad de los Palses Bajos, voluntarios de PBI, se
encontraban a bordo de un vehIculo visiblemente identificado con los sImbolos de la
organizaciôn, acompaflando a uno de los miembros de la Comunidad de Paz de Apartado, cuando
habrIan sido asaltados por cuatro individuos vestidos de civil y fuertemente armados. Durante el
asalto, dos de los hombres habrIan apuntado con sus armas los miembros de PBI y les habrIan
ordenado salir del vehIculo, obligandolos a entregarles sus telefonos portables y las llaves del
vehIculo. Los atacantes habrIan procedido a obligar al miembro de la Comunidad de Paz a que
descendiera del vehIculo para poder hablar con él. Los miembros de PBI habrIan explicado a los
hombres armados que ellos estaban en permanente relacion con las autoridades de la region, los
atacantes habrIan respondido que no les importaba, procediendo a insultarlos. Por fin, los
hombres armados se habrIan llevado el teléfono portable de PBI, y varios millones de pesos,
dinero propiedad de la Comunidad de Paz y destinado a la realizaciOn de sus proyectos
comunitarios, asI como las copias de los documentos de identificaciOn de algunos miembros de
la comunidad y sus libretas bancarias. Se informa que, algunos minutos después del asalto, se
habrIan encontrado con soldados del BatallOn Bejarano Mufloz ante quienes habrIan denunciado
el asalto.
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140. El 31 de diciembre de 2003, la Representante Especial enviO una carta de alegaciOn sobre
la situaciOn de Severo Bastos, fiscal suplente de lajunta directiva de Sintradin, Sindicato de
Trabajadores del Instituto Colombiano de la Reforma Agraria (IINCORA), seccional de Arauca.
Segün las informaciones recibidas, Severo Bastos, antiguo trabajador del INCORAy actual fiscal
suplente de la Junta Directiva de Sintradin, habria sido asesinado por sicarios fliertemente
armados, el 14 de diciembre de 2003, en la ciudad de Villa del Rosario, Norte de Santander,
lugar en donde residia desde hace algün tiempo. Este supuesto asesinato se surnaria a los
crimenes ocurridos durante el ültimo aflo y rnedio contra Rodrigo Gamboa, Jairo Vera Arias y
Mario Sierra Anaya (16 de noviembre de 2003), todos directivos seccionales del mismo
sindicato.
141. El 5 de febrero de 2004, La Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
prornociOn y protecciOn de la libertad de expresiOn y opiniOn, enviO un llarnarniento urgente en
acuerdo con la inforrnaciOn recibida el 31 de diciembre de 2003 que Inés Pefla habria sido
arnenazada por un desconocido que le habria sugerido abandonar el prograrna de television que
conduce llarnado “Cultura de Vida” en el cual habria denunciado la llegada de pararnilitares en la
regiOn y la violaciOn de los derechos hurnanos desde la perspectiva de los jOvenes inmersos en el
conflicto. Adernas, segün la inforrnaciOn recibida, el 27 de enero de 2004, una delegaciOn
hurnanitaria formada por nueve personas, entre ellas la Presidente de la OFP, Yolanda Becerra,
tres miembros del Consejo Noruego para Refhgiados, cuatro de la Conserjeria de Proyectos y
uno de las Brigadas Internacionales de Paz, se habria desplazado por el rio Magdalena hacia el
rnunicipio de San Pablo para visitar proyectos de vivienda de la OFP. Al pasar un control militar,
varios hombres armados les habrian seflalado que se detuvieran, pero la delegaciOn no habria
hecho caso y los hombres habrian disparado contra la barca. La delegaciOn habria escapado
indemne pero habria sido obligada a regresar a la ciudad.
142. El 10 de febrero de 2004, la Representante Especial enviO un llarnarniento urgente,junto
con la Relatora Especial sobre ejecuciones extrajudiciales, surnarias o arbitrarias sobre la
situaciOn de los dirigentes cornunitarios Wilson David iliguita y Gildardo Tuberquia y otros
miembros de la Cornunidad de Paz de San José de ApartadO. Segün las informaciones recibidas,
el 31 de enero, mientras varios miembros de la Cornunidad de Paz esperaban el autobüs en
ApartadO, un desconocido que habria dicho estar alli por parte de los pararnilitares que actuaban
en la regiOn de Uraba, les habria informado que los pararnilitares tenian planeado matar a Wilson
David iliguita, Edelmira Durango y Arturo David y adernas, de atacar y robar a toda la
cornunidad. Segün los inforrnes, testigos habrian indicado que el responsable de las arnenazas
habria sido visto participando en ataques anteriores perpetrados contra la Cornunidad de Paz de
San José de ApartadO por pararnilitares supuestarnente respaldados por el ejército. La cornunidad
habria denunciado esos ataques ante las autoridades pero a la fecha, no se dispone de
inforrnaciOn sobre las medidas que se han tornado para llevar a los responsables ante lajusticia.
143. El 12 de febrero de 2004, la Representante Especial enviO un llarnarniento urgente, junto
con el Relator Especial sobre la prornociOn y la protecciOn del derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y
de expresiOn y la Relatora Especial sobre ejecuciones extrajudiciales, surnarias o arbitrarias, en
relaciOn con las arnenazas de rnuerte en contra de varios sindicalistas rniernbros de la asociaciOn
de educadores de Arauca (ASEDAR), al parecer por pararnilitares supuestarnente respaldados
por el ejército. El 7 de enero, Francisco Rojas habria recibido en su teléfono rnOvil una llarnada
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de un hombre que le dijo “a usted le han matado a su papa, su hermano, qué más espera, le
damos ocho horas para salk de la ciudad 0 51 no huelen a cadaver... “. D c acuerdo con las
informaciones recibidas, a primeras horas de la mañana del 28 de enero de 2004, aiguien
introdujo una carta amenazandoie de muerte bajo la puerta de la casa de Jaime Carrillo,
presidente dcl sindicato de maestros ASEDAR en ci municipio de Arauca, El secretario general
dcl sindicato, Celedonio Jaimes Peflaloza, y a su expresidente, Francisco Rojas, tambien
habrian recibido cartas amenazandoies de muerte. Sc informa que ese mismo dia, a las 11 de la
mañana, se recibio en la oficina central de ASEDAR una ilamada teiefonica que repetia la
amenaza de muerte contra Jaime Carrillo y Ceiedonio Jaimes. El autor de la ilamada se habria
identificado como miembro de la organizaciôn paramilitar Autodefensas Unidas de Colombia
(AUC). Jnformes seflaian que Jaime Carrillo habria recibido otra carta con una amenaza similar
en la cual las AUC amenazarian con matar a las mismas personas citadas en la carta dci 28 de
enero, ademas de a un maestro, Marcos Garcia.
144. El 25 de febrero de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con ci Relator Especial sobre
la promociôn dci derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn y la Relatora Especial sobre
ejecuciones extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias en relaciOn a las amenazas de muerte, enviO un
ilamamiento urgente en relaciOn con la seguridad Jesus Alfonso Naranjo y Mario Mora,
representantes dci departamento de derechos humanos de la AsociaciOn Nacional de
Trabajadores de Hospitaics, clinicas, Consuitorios y Entidades a procurar la Salud de la
Comunidad (ANTHOC), un sindicato de trabajadores de la salud. Segün la informaciOn recibida,
Jesus Aifonso Naranjo y Mario Mora habrian sido objeto de amenazas y ataques en ci pasado. En
diciembre de 2003, tres hombres armados habrian atacado la esposa de Jesus Aifonso, Clara
Sofia Caballero, cuando salia de su casa en Honda, departamento de Tolima. Mientras la habrian
apuntado con un arma, la habrian dicho que su esposo estaba defendiendo a sindicalistas
guerrilileros y que eso ic costaria la vida. El 21 de enero de 2004, una carta habria sido entregada
a las oficinas centraics de ANTHOC en Bogota, la cual habria contenido una amenaza de muerte.
La carta, que habria ilevado ci logotipo dci grupo paramilitar supuestamente respaidado por ci
ejército los Autodefensas dci Magdaiena Medio, habria acusado a Jesus Aifonso Naranjo y
Mario Mora de ser guerrilileros infiltrados en ci movimiento sindical. Habria informado a los dos
hombres que los paramilitares los habrian deciarado objetivo military habria manifestado que
los matarian donde quiera que se encuentren. Sc teme que estas amenazas de muerte estén
relacionadas con su actividad de derechos humanos, y en particular su trabajo de denunciar las
repetidas amenazas, despiazamientos forzados y asesinatos de funcionarios de salud por parte de
los grupos paramilitares.
145. El 27 de febrero de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con la Presidente-Relatora dci
Grupo de Trabajo sobre la DetenciOn Arbitraria y ci Relator Especial sobre la promociOn dci
derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, enviO un ilamamiento urgente en relaciOn con la
situaciOn de miembros de Ia Asociación Campesina de Arauca (ACA) y en particular de Luz
Perly Córdoba, Juan de Jesus Gutiérrez, Victor Enrique Amarillo y Moisés Elias Eregua.
Segün la informaciOn recibida, ci 18 de febrero de 2004, miembros dci Departamento
Administrativo de Seguridad (DAS) habrian detenido a la presidente de la ACA, Luz Perly
COrdoba, cuando salia de sus ciases en la Universidad ININCA de Colombia. Luz Perly COrdoba
estaria detenida en las instalaciones dci DAS de Paioquemao en Bogota. Su vivienda habria sido
registrada en un operativo policial durante ci cual ci disco duro de la computadora, fotos,
disquetes y papeics habrian sido sustraidos. Dc acuerdo con la informaciOn recibida, ci mismo
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dia, miembros de la Direcciôn de Policia Judicial e Investigaciôn (DIJIIN), del Cuerpo Técnico de
Investigaciones de la Fiscalia (CTI), del DAS y de la policia general en el rnunicipio de Arauca
se habrian presentado en las oficinas de la ACA, en el rnunicipio de Arauquita, supuestarnente
con la rnisiôn de buscar docurnentos subversivos de acuerdo con una orden de un fiscal adscrito a
la Fiscalia General de la Naciôn. Al encontrar las oficinas cerradas, los miembros de la operaciôn
se habrian dirigido a la casa de la dirigente de la ACA, Nubia Vega. Habrian allanado la vivienda
y tornado fotos. Tarnbien habrian detenido a dos de los escoltas de la ACA, Victor Enrique
Amarillo y Moisés Elias Eregua. Miernbros del CTI se habrian llevado al esposo y al hijo de tres
aflos de edad de la secretaria de la ACA para que ésta les abriera las oficinas. La secretaria habria
llegado poco después para perrnitir la entrada a los responsables del operativo policial, los cuales
se habrian llevado el disco duro de la cornputadora, docurnentos que contenian lecturas sobre
derechos hurnanos, los estatutos de la ACA, los recibos del teléfono, tres disquetes y dos
fotografias. El 19 de febrero, el tesorero de la ACA, Juan de Jesus Gutiérrez, habria sido
detenido en Saravena y llevado a las instalaciones de la Brigada 18 del Ejército en Arauca donde
habria sido rnantenido incornunicado. Le habria sido negada la visita de un abogado asi corno el
acceso a alirnentacion y su ropa. Se terne que la supuesta detencion de los rniernbros de la ACA
esté relacionada con sus actividades en favor de los derechos hurnanos. Igualmente se informo
que los rniernbros de la ACA habrian sido victirnas de constantes arnenazas y hostigarniento.
Tras recibir arnenazas contra su vida, Luz Perly Cordoba se habria ido de Arauca para vivir en
Bogota. La Corte Interarnericana de Derechos Hurnanos (CIDH) habria solicitado la adopcion de
rnedidas cautelares para su protecciôn. Victor Enrique Amarillo y Moisés Elias Eregua forrnaban
parte de la escolta nornbrada por el Ministerio del Interior para proteger a los rniernbros de la
ACA, en cumplimiento de las rnedidas cautelares recornendadas por la CIDH.
146. El 9 de rnarzo de 2004, la Representante Especial enviô una carta de alegacion sobre la
situaciôn de la Corporación Casa de Ia Mujer, una organizaciôn no gubernamental que trabaja
para la promociôn, protecciôn y exigibilidad de los derechos hurnanos de las mujeres. Segün la
informacion recibida, el 19 de diciernbre de 2003 hacia las 19.15 horas, cuatro hornbres arrnados
habrian ingresado a una de las sedes de la Corporaciôn Casa de la Mujer en la ciudad de Bogota.
Bajo arnenazas, habrian obligado, a los trabajadores presentes, Emilce Marroquin, Myriam
Perez y Richard Alarcón, a tenderse en el suelo bajo la vigilancia armada de uno de ellos,
rnientras los otros tres atacantes se habrian allanado a las oficinas. Segün la informacion, habrian
cortado las cornunicaciones y se habrian llevado los discos duros de las cornputadoras, los cuales
contenian informacion relacionada con los proyectos institucionales de la Casa de la Mujer,
informacion sobre los espacios sociales en los que participa, la base de datos de las
organizaciones nacionales e internacionales con las cuales está relacionada la instituciôn y las
mujeres lideres con las que trabaja, las agencias financiadoras y adernas informacion contable y
financiera. Se inforrna que a pesar de que en las oficinas se encontraban otros equipos de
cômputo y de comunicaciôn, estos no habrian sido sustraidos. Segün la informacion, después del
incidente los trabajadores habrian llamado a la policia desde un teléfono püblico, y se habrian
presentado inrnediatarnente en el lugar dos agentes de la policia. Sin ernbargo, segün la
informacion, la policia no habria abierto ningün acto oficial de la denuncia presentada y tarnpoco
habrian atendido a las descripciones o datos que habrian contribuido a identificar o a capturar a
los implicados.
147. El 10 de rnarzo 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
promociôn y protecciôn del derecho a la libertad de opinion y expresiOn, enviO un llamamiento
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urgente sobre la situaciôn de Berenice Celeyta, presidenta de la Asociaciôn para la investigaciôn
y acciôn social NOMADESC y asesoria del departamento de derechos humanos del Sindicato de
las Empresas Municipales de Cali (SINTRAEMCALI). Segün la informacion recibida, el 6 de
febrero de 2004, un explosivo habria sido colocado en la puerta de entrada de la sede de
SINTRAEMCALI, donde se encUentran también las oficinas de NOMADESC. Segün la
informacion, el mismo dia, Berenice Celeyta habrla recibido una llamada en 5U teléfono celular,
teléfono que le fue asignado por el Programa de protecciôn del Ministerio del Interior donde se
habria escuchado una rafaga de arma de fuego. Ambos hechos habrian ocurrido unas horas
despUés de la visita de una delegacion britanica organizada por la organizaciôn no
gubernamental inglesa Justice for Colombia y compuesta de diputados, sindicalistas y miembros
de organizaciones no gubernamentales, que habrlan venido para recibir denuncias sobre las
violaciones de derechos humanos cometidos contra los sindicales y defensores de derechos
humanos. Ademas segün la informacion, el 19 de febrero, Berenice Celeyta habrla encontrado en
su contestador automático un mensaje que habria dicho “hija de puta, uno de estos dias la vamos
a matar”.
148. El 15 de marzo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
promociôn del derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn, Relatora Especial sobre
ejecuciones extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias enviO un llamamiento urgente sobre el
supuesto asesinato de José Luis Torres, un activista del sindicato de trabajadores de Salud
ANTHOC y a la situaciOn de Jesus Alfonso Naranjo y Mario Mora, miembros de ANTHOC
cuyo caso fue objeto de un llamamiento urgente enviado conjuntamente el 25 de febrero de 2004
por la Representante Especial del Secretario General sobre los defensores de los derechos
humanos, el Relator Especial sobre el derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y la
Relatora Especial sobre ejecuciones extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias. Segün la informaciOn
recibida, el 4 de marzo de 2004, José Luis Torres habria sido asesinado por impactos de bala por
hombres no identificados en la entrada principal del Hospital General de Barranquilla donde
trabajaba. Se informa que los miembros de la ANTHOC estarian siendo victimas de constantes
amenazas y hostigamiento por grupos paramilitares supuestamente respaldados por el ejército.
En este contexto, la Represenante Especial recuerda su comunicaciOn del 25 de febrero de 2004
en la que ya se mencionaba la situaciOn de Jesus Alfonso Naranjo y Mario Mora, y las amenazas
que habrian recibido el 21 de enero de 2004.
149. El 15 de marzo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
independencia de magistrados y abogados y el Relator Especial sobre el derecho a la libertad de
opiniOn y de expresiOn, enviO un llamamiento urgente sobre la situaciOn de Rodolfo RIos
Lozano, abogado de derechos humanos que representa a Luz Perly COrdoba, presidenta de la
ACA, cuyo caso fue objeto de un llamamiento urgente enviado conjuntamente el 27 de febrero
de 2004 por la Representante Especial, la Presidenta-Relatora del Grupo de Trabajo sobre la
DetenciOn Arbitraria, y el Relator Especial sobre el derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de
expresiOn. Segün la informaciOn recibida, el 24 de febrero de 2004, después de la indagatoria de
Luz Perly COrdoba, Rodolfo Rio Lozano habria recibido dos llamadas telefOnicas anOnimas. En
la primera llamada el autor le habria acusado de ser un “perro terrorista de las FARC, abogado
defensor de narcoterroristas” y en la otra, dos horas más tarde, le habria dicho que deberla
escoger entre abandonar el pals, dejar los casos en los que estaba trabajando, o morir. Se informa
ademas que Rodolfo Rios Lozano habria sido sometido a vigilancia y habr la sido seguido por
unos hombres no identificados.
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150. El 15 de marzo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn y la Relatora Especial sobre ejecuciones
extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias, enviO un llamamiento urgente sobre la situaciOn de
Marina Navarro y Daniel Botella, dirigentes de la AsociaciOn de Campesina de Arauca en el
municipio de Tame, quienes habrIan recibido amenazas de muerte. Segün la informaciOn
recibida, el 21 de febrero, miembros de la Brigada MOvil nüm. S del ejército habrIan entrado en
la zona de BotalOn, al parecer con Ordenes de detener a Marina Navarro y Daniel Botella. Se
informa que los soldados habrIan dicho que no pensaban capturar a los dos dirigentes, sino que
los iban a “dar de baja”.
151. El 18 de marzo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
tortura y el Relator Especial sobre el derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y expresiOn, enviO una carta
de alegaciOn sobre los siguientes casos. Emanuel Rivero, defensor de derechos humanos e
integrante de la FundaciOn Comité Regional de Derechos Humanos “Joel Sierra”, habrIa sido
golpeado cuando tropas del BatallOn Revéiz Pizarro habrIan allanado su casa en el barrio Vicente
Primera Etapa, departamento de Arauca, el 1 de octubre de 2002. Emanuel Rivero se habrIa
identificado como integrante del Comité de Derechos Humanos “Joel Sierra” en Saravena y
habrIa explicado a los soldados que la documentaciOn que tenla eran materiales proporcionados
por el Colectivo de Abogados José Alvear Restrepo y Humanidad Vigente, dos organizaciones
no gubernamentales colombianas, ya que estaba capacitandose en derechos humanos. Los
soldados le habrIan respondido que se trataba de polItica del Ejército de LiberaciOn Nacional
(ELN) y le habrIan golpeado en la cara, mientras habrIan seguido allanando la casa. Los soldados
habrIan encontrado unos videos de movilizaciones campesinas que habrIan calificado de estar
relacionados con la guerrilla y le habrIan golpeado de nuevo. Los soldados también habrIan
encontrado un estuche de cirugla que empleaba para hacer las prácticas del bachillerato agrario y
le habrIan dicho que lo utilizaba para auxiliar a la guerrilla. Posteriormente se lo habrIan llevado
en una camioneta donde un soldado habrIa continuado pegándole hasta el punto que otro militar
le recriminO. Una vez en la base del BatallOn Revéiz Pizarro lo habrIan tirado al suelo bocabajo y
con las manos atadas. HabrIa pasado la noche atado a una ventanajunto a un sofa. Al dIa
siguiente habrIa sido interrogado, sin atender la reclamaciOn de que hubiera presencia de la
PersonerIa o de un abogado. HabrIa sido puesto en libertad unas horas más tarde pero no le
habrIan devuelto los documentos decomisados. Eduardo Pefla Chacón, de 19 aflos de edad,
Ronald Pefla Chacón, de 15 aflos de edad, Pedro Jaime Mosquera y Martino Mosquera,
miembros de la ACA, asI como Reinel ilermosa, familiar de un socio de la ACA, que habrIan
sido detenidos el 16 de mayo de 2003 por agentes de la fuerza püblica en los municipios de
Saravena y de Arauquita, departamento de Arauca. ACA contarla con medidas cautelares de
protecciOn dictadas por la ComisiOn Jnteramericana de Derechos Humanos, pero serla objeto de
constantes intimidaciones, seflalamientos y agresiones por parte de agentes estatales y por los
paramilitares de las AUC. Los hermanos Pefla ChacOn y Reinel Hermosa habrIan sido
conducidos al puesto de policla de Arauquita, donde a Ronald y Eduardo Pefla ChacOn habrIan
puesto bolsas plásticas en la cabeza, los habrIan sumergido en agua, golpeado y acusado de ser
guerrilleros. HabrIan sido puestos en libertad diez horas más tarde sin recibir ningün tipo de
explicaciones. Reinel Hermosa también habrIa sido golpeado y posteriormente trasladado ala
cárcel de Arauca.
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152. El 18 de marzo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
tortura, envio una carta de alegacion en relacion con Juan Carlos Celis Gonzalez, defensor de
derechos humanos y miembro de la Corporaciôn Movimiento por la Vida, quien habrIa sido
detenido por miembros de la Policla Nacional clii de diciembre de 2002 en Bogota. Los hechos
habrIan tenido lugar en el marco de una serie de operativos adelantados por miembros de la
fuerza püblica, quienes con fhndamento en informacion entregada por la red de informantes o
cooperantes, habrIan llevado a cabo cerca de 50 allanamientos en toda la ciudad. En este
contexto, el apartamento de Juan Carlos Celis Gonzalez habrIa sido allanado por
aproximadamente 15 personas, algunas de ellas miembros de la Policla Nacional uniformados y
fuertemente armados y otras vestidas de civil, quienes habrIan entrado en la casa sin orden
judicial y sin acompaflamiento de la Fiscalla, ni de la Procuradurla. En el apartamento, Juan
Carlos Celis Gonzalez habrIa sido insultado, puesto bocabajo en el suelo, esposado y golpeado.
Su cabeza habrIa sido tapada con una chaqueta. Al no contestar a las preguntas que le haclan,
habrIa sido sometido a choques electricos en todo el cuerpo, mientras los agentes habrIan
manipulado una grabadora y le habrIan ordenado que confesara que era responsable de unos
atentados. Ese mismo dIa, habrIa sido trasladado a las instalaciones del Servicio de
Investigaciones Judiciales e Inteligencia de la Policla (SIJIN), sin permitirle informar a sus
familiares que habla sido detenido. Su detencion habrIa sido oficializada mediante la firma de un
acta donde no habrIan constado los motivos de su captura. HabrIa sido obligado a firmar un acta
de buen trato durante el procedimiento de registro de su lugar de habitacion. Durante la
diligencia de indagatoria, Juan Carlos Celis Gonzalez habrIa puesto en conocimiento de las
autoridades las torturas de las que habrIa sido vIctima por parte de los miembros de la Policla
Nacional, pero no se habrIan practicado los exámenes de medicina legal, ni se habrIa iniciado
investigaciôn alguna tendiente a esclarecer los hechos. Por otra parte, se habrIa adelantado una
investigaciôn penal en contra de Juan Carlos Celis, por los cargos de terrorismo, rebelion y
fabricacion, trafico y porte ilegal de armas en la modalidad de almacenamiento.
153. El 5 de abril de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn, enviO un llamamiento urgente en relaciOn con la
situaciOn del lIder indIgena Kankuamo Gilberto Arlanht Ariza, y de los dos estudiantes
German Acosta y Diego Sierra, quienes habrIan participado en el XXXV Congreso Mundial de
la FederaciOn Internacional de Derechos Humanos (FIDH) en Quito entre el 1 y 6 de marzo de
2004. Segün la informaciOn recibida el 2 de marzo, Gilberto Arlanht Ariza habrIa denunciado
ante el Congreso el supuesto genocidio que habrIa sufrido el pueblo Kankuomo desde el aflo
2001. Segün se informa ese mismo dIa un grupo armado habrIa llegado al domicilio de Gilberto
Arlanht Ariza en Bogota. HabrIan disparado contra la puerta y habrIan proferido amenazas
contra las personas que se encontraban allI. Segün la misma informaciOn, el 3 de marzo, se
realizO una asamblea general en la Universidad de Tolima. Se informa que durante la asamblea
general habrIan sido circulados panfletos acusando a German Acosta y a Diego Sierra de
pertenecer a la guerrilla y también habrIan acusado a miembros del Comité Estudiantil de
Bienestar Universitario de apoyar acciones de protesta de tipo violento.
154. El 7 de abril de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y la Relatora Especial sobre ejecuciones
extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias, enviO un llamamiento urgente sobre la situaciOn de
miembros del Sindicato Nacional de Trabajadores de Ia Industria de Alimentos
(SINALTRAINAL). Segün la informaciOn recibida, el 15 de marzo de 2004, miembros de
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SINALTRAITNAL en Bucaramanga, Cücuta, Barrancabermeja, Cartagena, Vailedupar, Cali,
MedeilIn y Bogota habrIan iniciado una huelga de hambre con ci objetivo de reiterar sus
denuncias en ci ambito internacional sobre los asesinatos, las desapariciones forzadas, los actos
de hostigamiento y las amenazas de muerte y otras graves violaciones de derechos que estarlan
padeciendo los miembros de este sindicato. Sc informa ademas que en febrero de 2004,
SINALTRAITNAL habrIa interpuesto una acciOn de tutela en contra de la empresa BURNS
PHILP COLOMBIA S.A. pore! despido de los trabajadores del 29 de enero de 2004. El 19 de
marzo, se habrIa hecho pübiica la sentencia dcl juez 3° Civil Municipal de Paimira Vaile en la
que se exigla a dicha empresa que reintegrase a los dos trabajadores. En este contexto, y segün la
informaciOn recibida, ci 19 de marzo de 2004, un comunicado firmado por las AUC habrIa sido
circulado en ci departamento de Vaile de Cauca. El comunicado contendrIa la siguiente amenaza
contra los integrantes de SINALTRAINAL: “El bioque conjunto calima pacIfica y demas
colaboradores urbanos de la ciudad de Paimira, deciaran la guerra a estos sujetos ya identificados
como directivos de esta organizaciOn, para que la abandonen en un piazo no mayor de tres meses
de lo contrario serán deciarados objetivos militares por nuestra organizaciOn y acabaremos con
todos.” Sc informa ademas que ci 20 de marzo, una carta parecida habrIa ilegado a la sede de
SINALTRAINAL en Paimira Vaile seflalando que los directivos de esta asociaciOn eran
colaboradores en la insurgencia en ci Vaile de Cauca.
155. El 23 de abril de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con ci Relator Especial sobre ci
derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, enviO un ilamamiento urgente sobre la situaciOn
de Ademir Luna, periodista y miembro de la CorporaciOn Regional para la defensa de los
Derechos Humano (CREDHOS), una organizaciOn de derechos humanos en Barrancabermeja,
Departamento de Santander, que habia pübiicamente denunciado la presencia de los
paramilitares en la regiOn. Segün la informaciOn recibida, ci 3 de febrero de 2004, hacia las
nueve de la noche, Ademir Luna habria observado que varios hombres estaban vigilando su casa.
Segün la informaciOn recibida, ci 29 de marzo de 2004, en un caso de confusion de identidad,
Fabian Correa, ci conductor de un taxi que es de propiedad dci padre de Ademir Luna, Eduardo
Luna, habria sido atacado por dos hombres. Los individuos habrian subido a! taxi y obligado a
Fabian Correa a conducir hacia una caile sin salida, sitio en la cual lo habrian encaflonado con
armas de fuego diciéndoie “Usted es Ademir Luna, cierto? Lo vamos a matar.” Segün los
informes, habrian colocado a Fabian Correa contra ci timOn dci automOvii y ic habrian rociado
gasolina en ci cuerpo y en ci automOvii, amenazando con quemarlo, mientras ic habrian dicho
“que Si que era Ademir Luna. Ese carro era de Ademir.” Posteriormente, los individuos armados
habrian intentado encender a! automOvii pero a! no funcionar ci encendedor, se habrian
marchado diciéndoie “Sabe qué, gordo hijo de puta, usted esta rezado. Digaic a esa gonorrea que
se cuide, que lo vamos a matar.” Fabian Correa se habria dirigido inmediatamente a la policia
para denunciar lo ocurrido.
156. El 26 de abril 2004, la Relatora Especial, junto cone! Relator Especial sobre ci derecho a
la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y la Relatora Especial sobre ejecuciones extrajudiciales,
sumarias o arbitrarias, enviO un ilamamiento urgente sobre ci supuesto asesinato de Gabriel
Remolina, de su esposa Fanny Robles y su hijo Robinson Remolina. Gabriel Remolina es ci
cuflado de EfraIn Guerrero, presidente de la seccional dci SINALTRAITNAL. Sc seflala que los
miembros de dicho sindicato ya fheron objeto de un ilamamiento urgente, enviado
conjuntamente ci 7 de abril de 2004 por ci Relator Especial sobre ci derecho a la libertad de
opiniOn y de expresiOn, la Relatora Especial sobre ejecuciones extrajudiciales y la Representante
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Especial. Segün la informacion recibida, el 15 de marzo de 2004, miembros de
SINALTRAITNAL en varias regiones del pals habrian iniciado una huelga de hambre con el
objetivo de reiterar sus denuncias en el ámbito internacional sobre las graves violaciones que
estarlan padeciendo los miembros de este sindicato. El señor Efrain Guerrero habria participado
en la huelga de hambre. El 19 de marzo de 2004, un comunicado firmado por las AUC habria
sido circulado en el departamento de Valle de Cauca, en el que se habria amenazado a los
directivos de SINALTRAINAL que abandonen su trabajo o que serán declarado objetivo militar.
En este contexto, y segün la nueva informacion recibida, el 20 de abril de 2004, un grupo de
hombres armados habria ingresado en la casa de Gabriel Remolina en la ciudad de Bucaramanga,
Departamento de Santander. Los hombres habrian disparado contra la familia. Habrian matado a
Gabriel Remolina y Fanny Robles y herido a sus tres hijos, los cuales habrian sido llevados al
hospital. Uno de ellos, Robinson Remolina, habria fallecido poco despues. Se informa ademas
que el 14 de abril, otro miembro de SINALTRAITNAL, Onofre Esquivel, habria sido amenazado
por dos individuos en su vivienda en Bugalagrande, Departamento del Valle. Segün los informes,
Onofre Esquivel habria sido amenazado de muerte previamente por los paramilitares,
supuestamente respaldados por el ejercicio, en octubre de 2003.
157. El 10 de mayo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn y la Relatora Especial sobre ejecuciones
extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias, enviO una carta de alegaciOn sobre el supuesto asesinato
de Maria Lucero llenao, presidente de la Junta AcciOn Comunal en la Vereda Puerto Esperanza
del municipio El Castillo, en el Departamento del Meta, y de su hijo, Yamid Daniel, de 16 aflos
de edad. Segün las informaciones recibidas, el 6 de febrero de 2004, a las 22.30 horas, civiles
armados al parecer pertenecientes a grupos paramilitares, habrian llegado a la casa de MarIa
Lucero Henao en la Vereda Puerto Esperanza. Al principio, ella se habria negado a abrir, pero
cuando los hombres habr lan amenazado de tumbar la puerta, se habria sentido obligada a abrirla.
Los hombres la habrian llevado a la fuerza a pesar de los ruegos de su madre, sus hijas y su hijo,
quienes salieron detras para tratar de impedir el hecho. Segün la informaciOn, durante el trayecto
a las afueras del caserlo, los hombres armados habr lan intentado amarrar a Maria Lucero Henao
con cuerdas de nylon mientras le habrian gritado “desde hace tiempo le teniamos ganas pero no
se habia presentado la oportunidad” y a la familia le habrian acusado de ser guerrilleros. A cinco
minutos de la casa habrian obligado a la madre y a las hijas a volver y habrian quedado con
Maria Lucero Henao y Yamid Daniel Henao. Poco despues, la familia habria escuchado disparos
de armas de fhego pero, por miedo no habrian salido de la casa hasta la madrugada, cuando
habrian encontrado los dos cuerpos sin vida. D c acuerdo con la informaciOn, el cuerpo de Yamid
Daniel Henao se encontraba desfigurado, con impactos en la boca y con una oreja amputada.
Segün la informaciOn, Maria Lucero Henao y su familia habr la sido una de las diez ünicas
familias que habia permanecido en el caserlo Puerto Esperanza despues de la incursiOn
paramilitar del 2 de agosto del 2001. En su calidad de presidenta de la Junta AcciOn Comunal
para defender los derechos de los habitantes del caserlo y ante la supuesta ausencia de la
actuaciOn rapida y oportuna de las autoridades, Maria Lucero Henao, habria tenido que realizar
el levantamiento de los cadaveres de siete vecinos de su vereda. Se informa ademas que en varias
ocasiones habria denunciado la grave situaciOn de los pobladores de Puerto Esperanza ante la
Oficina del Alto Comisionado de las Naciones Unidas para los Derechos Humanos y varias
delegaciones diplomáticas con asiento en Colombia, entre ellas las embajadas de Austria,
Canada, Gran Bretafla, Italia, Alemania y Francia. Tambien, habr la representado su comunidad
ante la ComisiOn Interinstitucional que visitO la zona en 2003, y habria relatado los hechos de
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agresiôn que sufria la comunidad debido a la permanente presencia en la zona de los
paramilitares supuestamente respaidados por ci ejército. Se informa que habria sido objeto de
amenazas y de un intento de asesinato en los üitimos tres aflos.
158. El 13 de mayo de 2004, La Representante Especial, junto con ci Relator Especial sobre la
independencia de magistrados y abogados, enviô una carta de aiegacion sobre ci supuesto
asesinato dcl abogado Carlos Bernal, miembro dcl Comité Permanente para la Defensa de los
Derechos Humanos y dcl Frente Social y Politico, que habria sido asesinado ci 10 de abril de
2004 en la ciudad de Cücuta por una persona no identificada, que le disparo varias veces en la
cabeza cuando se encontraba en un estabiecimiento de yenta de comida. Otra persona no
identificada habria disparado a la cabeza de su guardaespaidas Camilo Jiménez, quien faiiecio
horas más tarde. Sc informa que al momento de su muerte, Carios Bernal habria estado
beneficiario dci Programa de Protecciôn dci Ministerio dci Interior y de Justicia. Este ataque
pone en evidencia una vez más la precaria situaciôn que viven los abogados defensores de
derechos humanos en Colombia, quienes enfrentan amenazas, ataques fisicos y, en casos como ci
presente, la muerte.
159. El 28 de mayo de 2004, la Representante Especial enviô un ilamamiento urgente sobre la
situaciôn de Carlos Alberto ilurtado Aramburo, ci sobrino de Jorge Isaac Aramburo
Garcia, lider dci Movimiento Negro en Colombia y dci Consejo Comunitario dci Rio
Yurumangui. Segün la informacion recibida, eli 0 de octubre de 2003, la Comisiôn
Interamericana de Derechos Humanos habria otorgado medidas cautelares a favor de Jorge Isaac
Aramburo Garcia para protegerie tanto a éi, como a su familia, ya que desde ci aflo 2000 11
miembros de su familia habrian sido asesinados por miembros de los grupos paramilitares
supuestamente respaidados por ci ejército. En este contexto y segün la informacion recibida, ci
11 de mayo de 2004 a las 17.00 horas, Carios Aiberto Hurtado Aramburo habria sido secuestrado
de su residencia en ci Barrio la Jndependencia por dos individuos desconocidos que se
movilizaban en un taxi. Segün los informes, desde esa fecha no se habria tenido noticias de su
paradero.
160. El 21 de junio de 2004, la Representante Especial, conjuntamente con la Presidente-
Relatora dci Grupo de Trabajo sobre la Detenciôn Arbitraria, enviô un ilamamiento urgente en
reiacion con Mauricio Avilez Alvarez, representante dci Comité Operativo de la Coordinacion
de Derechos Humanos Colombia-Europa-Estados Unidos (CCEEU), una organizaciôn que
produce informes a nivel internacional sobre la situaciôn de derechos humanos en Colombia.
Segün las informaciones recibidas, Mauricio Aviiez Alvarez habria sido detenido ci 10 de junio
de 2004 en Barranquilila por miembros dci Grupo de Acciôn Unificada por la Libertad Personal
(GAULA) dci ejército. El Sr. Aviiez Alvarez habria sido trasiadado en un vehiculo sin piacas
hasta los calabozos de la Segunda Brigada de Barranquilila. Habria sido acusado de rebeiion,
extorsiôn y homicidio agravado por la coiocacion de un artefacto expiosivo ci 16 de diciembre
de 2003 en ci centro comercial SAO de Barranquilia, atentado en ci cual faiiecio una persona. Sc
informa, sin embargo, que ese dia ci Sr. Aviiez Alvarez habria participado en un taller de la
Coordinacion en Barranquilia y que por lo tanto, no pudo haber participado en la comisiôn dci
atentado descrito. El Sr. Aviiez Alvarez se encuentra actualmente detenido en la carcei “El
Bosque” de Barranquilila. Sc informa, por üitimo, que habria sido detenido y acusado con ci
objeto de amedrentarlo para que cese en sus actividades de defensa de los derechos humanos y
de denuncia de las politicas gubernamentaics en materia de seguridad.
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161. El 5 de Julio de 2004, la Representante Especial, Junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn, enviO un llamamiento urgente sobre la situaciOn
de Luz Perly Córdoba y Juan de Jesus Gutierres Ardila, presidenta y tesorero de la ACA,
cuyo caso ya fue obJeto de un llamamiento urgente enviado el 27 de febrero de 2004 por la
Presidente-Relatora del Grupo de TrabaJo sobre la DetenciOn Arbitraria conJuntamente con el
Relator Especial sobre el derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y la Representante
Especial. Segün la informaciOn recibida, Luz Perly COrdoba y Juan de Jesus Gutierres Ardila
habrIan sido detenidos durante la noche del 18 de febrero de 2004 en Bogota. Segün la nueva
informaciOn recibida, el 18 de Junio de 2004 Luz Perly COrdoba y Juan de Jesus Gutierres Ardila
habrIan cumplido 120 dIas de privaciOn de la libertad sin que la fiscalla hubiera hecho la
calificaciOn del mérito de la instrucciOn como lo establece la ley.
162. El 7 de Julio de 2004, la Representante Especial, Junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y el Relator Especial sobre la independencia de
magistrados y abogados, enviO una carta de alegaciOn con respecto a Pedro Julio Mahecha
Avila, abogado y miembro de la CorporaciOn Colectivo de Abogados “José Alvear Restrepo”,
quien habrIa sufrido actos de hostigamiento por parte del DAS el 14 de mayo de 2004. El
abogado habrIa sido hostigado y seguido en la ciudad de Cartagena por personas que se habrIan
identificado como funcionarios del DAS. La misma tarde, el abogado habrIa denunciado el
supuesto hostigamiento ante la policla. Sin embargo, el hostigamiento habrIa continuado y el
abogado habrIa abandonado la ciudad de Cartagena y anulado un viaJe a la ciudad de
Barranquilla, donde se habrIa comprometido a dirigir un programa auspiciado por la UniOn
Europea. Los informes indican que fhncionarios del DAS habrIan dispuesto un operativo en la
ciudad de Cartagena con el fin de demostrar que Pedro Julio Mahecha Avila era guerrillero de las
FARC. Este supuesto hostigamiento podrIa ser relacionado con su trabaJo como abogado y
defensor de derechos humanos.
163. El 28 de Julio de 2004, la Representante Especial enviO una carta de alegaciOn sobre el
supuesto asesinato de Carmen Elisa Nova llernández, fiscal del Sindicato de TrabaJadores de
ClInicas y Hospitales de Santander (SINTRACLINICAS). Segün las informaciones recibidas, el
15 deJulio de 2004, a las 20.15 horas, Carmen Elisa Nova habrIa sido asesinado al ingresar a su
domicilio, después de cumplir laJornada laboral en la ciudad de Bucaramanga, Santander. D c
acuerdo con las informaciones, dos sicarios que se habrIan trasladado en una moto con la placa
cubierta por un trapo le habrIan disparado en tres ocasiones causandole la muerte. La Sra. Nova
Hernandez habrIa trabaJ ado como enfermera desde hacIa 28 aflos en la ClInica Bucaramanga,
donde se habrIa afiliado a la organizaciOn sindical para la protecciOn de los derechos de los
trabaJadores. HabrIa sido elegida como fiscal del sindicato el pasado 24 de Julio. Se informa
también que los miembros de SINTRACLINICAS habrIan interpuesto demandas ante la Fiscalla,
La Defensoria del Pueblo y otros organismos püblicos, refiriéndose a actos de hostigamiento que
habrIan sufrido desde marzo del 2002, cuando hubo un intento de secuestrar a la presidenta del
sindicato. Se teme que este supuesto asesinato esté relacionado con el trabaJo de Carmen Elisa
Nova Hernandez en favor de los derechos humanos, y en particular su trabaJo de sindicalista en
defensa de los derechos de los trabaJadores.
164. El 6 de agosto de 2004 la Representante Especial, Junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
situaciOn de los derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentales de los indIgenas, enviO un
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ilamamiento urgente en reiacion con la situaciôn de inseguridad, peligro e indefension en la que
se encuentran aigunos lideres indigenas de la Organización Zonal IndIgena del Putumayo
(OZIP). Segün la informacion recibida, los dias 2 y 3 de Junio 2004, aigunos miembros de dicha
organizaciôn habrian recibido amenazas de muerte por parte de hombres armados no
identificados. A Hermes Meliton Narváez, que ocupa ci cargo de presidente, José Antonio Jajoy
Pai, tesorero, Luis Alejandro Lopez Agreda y Rosaura Guzman, respectivamente secretario
general y vocal de la OZIP, habria sido ordenado bajo amenazas de muerte de abandonar su
ejercicio de iiderazgo y de acabar las actividades de la organizaciOn. A pesar de que las
instituciones pübiicas informadas de los hechos, entre otras, la Defensorla del Pueblo, ci
Ministerio del Interior, la Policia Nacional y ci Servicio de Inteligencia (SIJTN), habran
habilitado mecanismos temporales de protecciOn de los ilderes de la OZIP, ci 24 de Junio 2004,
Luis Alejandro LOpez Agreda habria recibido una nueva ilamada telefOnica en la que se ic
trasmitia ci mismo mensaje intimidatorio. Segün se informa, ci presunto autor de la amenaza se
habria presentado como miembro de las AUC, con sede en ci municipio de Puerto Caicedo,
Putumayo. Actualmente, José Antonio Jajoy se encuentra en la Oficina dci Alto Comisionado
para los Derechos Humanos terminando una pasantia bajo ci programa que esta instituciOn
desarroila con la Universidad de Deusto en Espafla. Su vuelta a Colombia está prevista para
finales dci verano. José Antonio Jajoy ha continuado recibiendo amenazas en las que se ic
invitaria a no voiver al pals bajo peligro de muerte.
165. El 9 de agosto de 2004, la Representante Especial, Junto con ci Relator Especial sobre la
situaciOn de los derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentaics de los indigenas, enviO un
ilamamiento urgente en relaciOn con la situaciOn de inseguridad, peligro e indefensiOn en la que
se encuentran los indigenas de Colombia y en particular ci pueblo indIgena Kankuamo de Ia
Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta. Segün la informaciOn recibida, ci 4 de agosto de 2004, ci
dirigente indigena Fredy Arias Arias, coordinador dci programa de derechos humanos de la
OrganizaciOn Indigena Kankuama (01K), the asesinado cuando se dirigia en bicicieta desde la
sede de la organizaciOn hacia su residencia en la ciudad de Vailedupar. Segün se informa, los
autores de dicho crimen, dos personas que se movilizaban en una moto, habr lan sido presuntos
miembros de los paramihtares.
166. El 31 de agosto, la Representante Especial, Junto con ci Relator Especial sobre ci derecho
a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, enviO un ilamamiento urgente en relaciOn con la situaciOn
de inseguridad y peligro en la que se encuentra Lilia Solano, profesora de la universidad y
directora de la organizaciOn no gubernamental de derechos humanos Proyecto Justicia y Vida.
Segün la informaciOn recibida, ci 28 de Julio de 2004, Lilia Solana habria ilevado a cabo una
protesta dentro de la camera de debate dci Congreso Nacional en Bogota contra los posibies
planes de conceder inmunidad procesal a los grupos paramilitares presuntamente respaidados por
ci Gobierno. Sc informa que este mismo dia ci Gobierno habria invitado a tres dirigentes
paramilitares quienes habr lan estado presentes durante la protesta. Desde entonces, se alega que
Lilia Solano habria recibido amenazas de muerte tanto en ci teléfono de su casa como en su
teléfono mOvil. Ademas, se informa que las oficinas de Proyecto Justicia y Vida habrian estado
sometidas a una vigilancia constante por desconocidos. Sc teme que estas supuestas amenazas de
muerte en contra de Lilia Solano puedan estar relacionadas con su trabaJo de defensora de los
derechos humanos, y en particular su oposiciOn a la impunidad de los combatientes paramilitares
en Colombia.
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167. El 20 de septiembre de 2004, la Representante Especial enviô una carta de alegacion
sobre actos de intimidacion en contra de la doctora Soraya Gutiérrez, miembro de la
Corporaciôn Colectivo de Abogados José Alvear Restrepo. Segün la informacion recibida, el 13
de febrero de 2003, mientras la Sra. Soraya Gutiérrez regresaba a casa en un vehIculo blindado
asignado al Colectivo de Abogados por el programa gubernamental de protecciôn a defensores
de derechos humanos, habrIa sido interceptado por otro vehIculo que le habrIa obligado a
detenerse. Se informa que varios hombres bajaron del vehIculo llevando ametralladoras. La Sra.
Soraya Gutiérrez habrIa logrado arrancar su vehIculo y eludir la posible acciôn de los agresores.
Se alega también que en los dIas antes de dicho suceso habrIa recibido llamadas telefonicas
anônimas en las que no se contestaban o se escuchaban risas macabras. Se teme que estos actos
de hostigamiento e intimidacion en contra de la Sra. Soraya Gutiérrez puedan estar directamente
relacionados con su trabajo de defensora de derechos humanos y constituir un claro intento de
impedir el desarrollo de sus actividades.
168. El 23 de septiembre de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial
sobre el derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn y el Relator Especial sobre ejecuciones
extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias, enviO un llamamiento urgente sobre la situaciOn de la
periodista e investigadora de derechos humanos, Claudia Julieta Duque, quien estarla
recibiendo amenazas de muerte desde agosto de 1999, cuando iniciO una investigaciOn
periodIstica sobre las posibles irregularidades en el proceso penal del homicidio del humorista y
periodista, Jaime GarzOn, en la que se seflalaba al DAS como responsable de un montajejurIdico
para acusar Juan Pablo Ortiz Agudelo y Ediberto Sierra Ayala por el homicidio del Sr. GarzOn.
Se informa que la Sra. Duque dio a conocer estos hechos ante la DirecciOn de Derechos
Humanos de la Policla Nacional, quien realizO un estudio de riesgo que arrojO como resultado
que habla un peligro inminente de que las amenazas se hagan efectivas. D c acuerdo con las
informaciones recibidas, la periodista también denunciO las amenazas ante la Fiscalla. La
FundaciOn para la Libertad de Prensa solicitO, por medio de un derecho de peticiOn, informaciOn
sobre el estado de las investigaciones en el caso de la Sra. Duque. En oficio N° 6601, la Fiscalla
respondiO “que ci despacho no encontrO informaciOn al respecto”, pese a que la FundaciOn para
la Libertad de Prensa habla incluido el nümero del proceso y la Fiscalla en el que se deberla
encontrar la investigaciOn. Informes indican que la Sra. Duque ha recibido protecciOn de la
policla. Sin embargo, la Fiscalla no ha avanzado en las investigaciones y, por el contrario, le
informO a la FundaciOn para la Libertad de Prensa que las denuncias que la Sra. Duque interpuso
en sus despachos no existlan.
169. El 19 de octubre de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre
ejecuciones extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias, enviO una carta de alegaciOn con respecto al
caso de Teresa Yarse, lIder de la asociaciOn de Mujeres de las Independencias (AMI),
organizaciOn que trabaja en favor de los derechos de la mujer y contra la pobreza en MedellIn,
Departamento de Antioquia. HabrIa fallecido el 6 de octubre de 2004 al recibir tres tiros cuando
se encontraba en una cancha deportiva cerca de su casa. Se teme que la muerte de Teresa Yarse
pueda estar directamente relacionado con su trabajo de defensora de derechos humanos en dicha
comunidad, y en particular con su intento de reprimir confrontaciones armadas entre guerrilla y
paramilitares. Se alega que la muerte puede ser atribuida a los paramilitares que controlan el
barrio Comuna 13.
Comunicaciones recibidas
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170. Por carta de fecha de 30 de marzo de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 5 de febrero de 2004 acerca de la situaciôn de Inés
Pefla y miembros de Ia Comisión Internacional de las Brigadas de Paz y del Consejo
Noruego de Refugiados. La Procuraduria General de la Naciôn informo que una vez conocida la
denuncia, se habia dirigido al Comandante del Puesto Fiuvial No. 31 de la Armada Nacional
soiicitandoie aumentar los controles y retenes en ci rio Magdaiena a fin de evitar la incursion de
grupos armados ilegales, y asi proteger la vida e integridad de las personas que diariamente
trafican por ci rio. Respecto a la situaciOn de Inés Pefla, ci Gobierno informO que ci proceso se
encuentra en la Fiscalia Quinta a fin de determinar la real existencia dci hecho punibie y sus
presuntos responsabies. Respecto ala situaciOn de la Comitiva, se informO que hasta ci momento
no existian pruebas fehacientes sobre los hechos denunciados. Sin embargo las diligencias de
Yolanda Becerra fueron asignadas a la Fiscalia Sexta. Sc hizo entrega también a las
coordinadoras de la OrganizaciOn Femenina Popular de las normas de autoprotecciOn que deben
tenerse en cuenta para disminuir ci grado de vuinerabilidad. La Fiscalia Quinta Seccional
informO que las diligencias contra desconocidos, siendo ofendida Inés Pefla, fueron enviadas ci
21 de febrero 2004 a la oficina de asignaciones de la Unidad Especializada de Fiscalias de la
ciudad de Bucaramanga, por entera razOn de competencia funcional.
171. Por carta fechada ci 28 de mayo de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO ala comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 25 de febrero y ci 12 de marzo de 2004. El Gobierno
informO que la Fiscalia General, ci Departamento Administrativo de Seguridad y la Policia
Nacional habrian sido informados de las amenazas recibidas por los citados ciudadanos. Con
respecto a Jesus Alfonso Naranjo, ic habria ortorgado un esquema de seguridad, en ci que
cuenta con dos escoitas, un apoyo de transporte terrestre por 192 horas mensuales y un medio de
comunicaciOn celular. Asimismo, y conforme con las recomendaciones dci Comité de
RegiamentaciOn y EvaluaciOn de Riesgo, las autoridades entregará tiquetes internacionaics para
éi y su grupo familiar toda vez que acorde con la informaciOn suministrada. Con respecto a
Mario Nel Mora, ci esquema de seguridad con ci que anteriormente contaba fue suspendido sin
embargo, ic habria asignado a otro esquema por la protecciOn de los dirigentes nacionaics
mediante ci cual contaria con medio de comunicaciOn Avantel. En la actualidad, espera una
reevaluaciOn de su nivel de riesgo por la Policia Nacional, que podria otorgarie mecanismos
adicionaics. El 30 de marzo de 2004, ci Ministerio dci Interior y de Justicia precisa que ci difunto
no habria solicitado ninguna medida de protecciOn de los organismos estataics.
172. Por carta fechada eli 0 dejuiio de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO ala comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 12 de febrero de 2004 relativa a las presuntas
amenazas en contra de varios sindicalistas miembros de la Asociación de Educadores de
Arauca (ASEDAR), Jaime Carrillo, Celedonio Jaimes Peflaloza y su presidente Francisco
Rojas. El Gobierno informO que la Fiscalia Tercera delegada ante los jueces dci circuito de
Arauca estaba investigando dichas amenazas, adelantando varias diligencias investigativas, entre
elias, deciaraciones de los testigos. Ademas, la Oficina de ProtecciOn realizO una evaluaciOn
técnica dci nivel de riegos y amenazas de las personas antes mencionadas. La oficina ics dio a
conocer las recomendaciones que deben tener en cuenta para su seguridad personal. También se
acordO en reuniones con la policia nacional que realizaria patruilajes por las residencias y lugares
de trabajo de estos señores.
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173. Por carta fechada el i 0 dejuiio de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 15 de marzo de 2004 sobre la seguridad dci
representante legal de Luz Perly Cordoba, Rodolfo Rios Lozano. El Gobierno confirmo ci 10 de
abril de 2004 que ci abogado hara parte dci Programa Especial de Protecciôn Integral para
dirigentes y miembros sobrevivientes de la Union PatriOtica y dci Partido Comunista
Colombiano, por ci cual beneficiara de un vehIculo corriente, dos escoitas, un celular, un radio
Avantel y tiquetes nacionaics para cuando lo solicitarlan. Asimismo, ci 18 de marzo de 2004, ci
Comité de RegiamentaciOn y EvaluaciOn de Riesgos habrIa autorizado ci cambio de su vehIculo
corriente por un vehIculo blindado. Con respecto a las amenazas dirigidas al abogado ci 27 de
abril de 2004, la Fiscaila ha iniciado un procedimiento investigativo de los hechos denunciados.
El Gobierno seguirá atento al resuitado de la investigaciOn e informará oportunamente a la
Representante Especial.
174. Por carta fechada eli 0 dejuiio de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO ala comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 30 de diciembre de 2003 con referencia a la
seguridad de David Raboso y Dorothea Timmer. El Gobierno informO que una investigaciOn
de los hechos denunciados habrIa sido iniciada. Segün ci Gobierno, los citados ciudadanos en
ningün momento habrIan sido amenazados o agredidos, sino ci vIctima de tal hostigamiento fue
ci señor David Wilson, representante de la comunidad de San José con quién se despiazaban. Los
miembros de la PBI habrIan recibido recomendaciones de abstenerse de transportar dinero, o al
mInimo, de designar una escoita policla. Segün los fhncionarios dci DAS, los hechos
denunciados por los miembros de la PBI no habrIan sido confirmados por los residentes de la
zona. Hasta la fecha, no existe resuitado conciuyente ni para identificar a las personas que
agredieron a David Wilson ni para determinar las circunstancias de los hechos denunciados. La
investigaciOn se encuentra en etapa previa pero en cuanto recabe más informaciOn ci Gobierno
informará a la Representante Especial.
175. Por carta fechada eli 0 dejuiio de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO ala comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 11 de febrero de 2004 referente a las amenazas en
contra de Wilson David iliguita, dirigente comunitario, y otros miembros de la Comunidad de
Paz de San José de ApartadO. El Gobierno confirmO que mandO a las autoridades civiles,
militares y de policla a tomar las medidas necesarias para garantizar la integridad fIsica de dichas
personas. Segün la Defensorla dci Pueblo, ci 9 de febrero de 2004 habrIa recibido una denuncia
suscrita por la CorporaciOn JurIdica “Libertad”. La Ministerla de Defensa Nacional informO que
recabara informaciOn con ci propOsito de investigar la veracidad de las amenazas y tomar las
medidas necesarias para neutralizar acciones delictivas de las organizaciones armadas al margen
de la icy.
176. Por carta fechada ci 26 dejuiio de 2004, ci Gobierno enviO informaciOn adicional sobre
la situaciOn de Jesus Alfonso Naranjo y Mario Nel Mora. El Gobierno informO que hasta la
fecha la investigaciOn con referencia a las amenazas sufridas por ci denunciante, Jesus Aifonso
Naranjo, se encuentra en etapa preliminar y en práctica de pruebas. Con respecto al denunciante
Mario Mora, ci Gobierno aciarO que no habrIa sido victima de las amenazadas mencionadas, y
por consecuencia, no habrIa sido incluido en la investigaciOn.
177. Por carta fechada ci 26 dejuiio de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO ala comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 23 de abril de 2004 referente a Ademir Luna. Con
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respecto a los actos de hostigamiento en contra de citado ciudadano durante los meses de febrero
y marzo de 2004, ci Gobierno informo que la policla habrIa recibido ninguna denuncia, y por
consecuencia no habrIa sido posibie iniciar una investigaciôn. Asimismo, segün ci Gobierno, no
existirla una amenaza directa que pondrIa en riesgo la vida dcl afectado o que impedirla ci
desarroilo de sus labores como periodista. No obstante, ci Gobierno deciaro que habrIa reforzado
todas las medidas de seguridad dispuestas.
178. Por carta fechada ci 26 dejuiio de 2004, y siguiente una otra comunicaciôn ci 2 dejunio
de 2004 por la Representante Especial, ci Gobierno enviô informacion adicional sobre Ademir
Luna. Segün ci Gobierno, una investigaciôn dci incidente dci 29 de marzo de 2004 habrIa sido
iniciada por la Fiscaila con ci objeto de estabiecer los autores. Por ci momento, ci DAS ic habrIa
aconsejado aplicar las normas de autoprotecciôn y de comunicar personas sospechosas que se
acercasen a ei como persona fIsica o a su casa. En todo momento, contarla con ci apoyo de
patruilajes esporadicos que adeiantaran los funcionarios dci Puesto Operativo de
Barrancabermeja. El Gobierno seguirá atento al resuitado de la investigaciôn e informara
oportunamente a la Representante Especial.
179. Por carta fechada ci 26 de Julio de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 26 de abril de 2004 referente a la muerte de Gabriel
Remolina, su esposa Fanny Robles y su hijo Robinson Remolina. El Gobierno informo que ci
13 de mayo de 2004, la Fiscaila Quinta de la Ciudad de Bucaramanga habrIa iniciado una
investigaciôn de los hechos denunciados. El 26 de mayo de 2004, ci Ministerio dci Interior
habrIa solicitado a la Fiscaila General de la Naciôn un estudio de la posibilidad de incluir a los
hijos de los difuntos en ci Programa de Victimas de la Violencia de la Red de Solidaridad Social.
El Gobierno notô que Efrain Guerrero, miembro de familia de los difuntos y presidente de una
seccional dci SITNALTRAINAL, será beneficiario de un programa de protecciôn, por ci cual se ic
habrIa asignado un vehIculo y dos escoitas. El Gobierno seflaio que en cuanto tenga informacion
adicional, informarla oportunamente a la Representante Especial.
180. Por carta fechada ci 27 dejuiio de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 5 de abril de 2004 sobre la situaciôn de Gilberto
Arlanht Ariza y los dos estudiantes German Acosta y Diego Sierra. El Ministerio de Interior
informo que ci ilder indIgena Gilberto Arianht Ariza es beneficiario de las siguientes medidas de
protecciôn, medios de comunicaciôn y cuatro apoyos de reubicacion temporal y dos pendientes.
Ademas, la Vicepresidencia de la Repübiica remitiô un informe de las gestiones adelantadas por
ci Gobierno con ci fin de garantizar la protecciôn de la comunidad indIgena Kankuamo. Entre las
medidas tomadas por ci Gobierno figuran visitas al resguardo indIgena Kankuamo, ci
estabiecimiento de un grupo de trabajo, la presencia permanente de un funcionario dci Gobierno
en la zona, quien trabajara en coordinacion con ci Defensor Comunitario, un Consejo de
Seguridad, y la entrega de 4 telefonos satelitaics. Al Cabildo Gobernador se ic aprobo un apoyo
de transporte terrestre por 92 horas mensuales, un medio de comunicaciôn Avantel, un teléfono
celular y tiquetes aéreos nacionaics. Con elfin de garantizar la vida e integridad de los miembros
de la comunidad despiazados en la ciudad de Bogota, las siguientes medidas han sido adoptadas;
apoyo de reubicacion temporal, apoyo de trasteo, apoyo colectivo de transporte, y medios de
comunicaciôn Avantel. Adicionaimente, ci Ministerio dci Interior y Justicia dispuso de tiquetes
aéreos para trasiadar a los ilderes espirituales desde Vailedupar a Bogota. Con respecto a la
situaciôn de los dos estudiantes German Acosta y Diego Sierra, ci comando dci departamento
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ordeno a! Grupo de Policla Judicial adelantar las correspondientes labores investigativas
tendiente ajudicializar a las personas que están amedrentando a otros estudiantes. Ademas,
recomendo a los estudiantes afectados instaurar las correspondientes denuncias penales ante la
Fiscalla con el fin de consolidar bases jurIdicas para la identificacion y captura de los presuntos
responsables. Adicionalmente, el Gobierno de Colombia seguirá atento a! resultado de las
investigaciones que se adelanten, respecto de lo cual informara oportunamente a la
Representante Especial.
181. Por carta fechada el 27 dejulio de 2004, el Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 27 de febrero de 2004 relativa a la situaciôn de Luz
Perly Cordoba. El Gobierno informo que en enero de 2004 se iniciô una investigaciôn formal en
relacion con las actividades de Luz Perly Cordoba por los presuntos delitos de rebelion y
concierto para delinquir que llevo a la liberacion del orden de captura en contra de la acusada el
16 de febrero de 2004. En la actualidad, está detenida en la cárcel de mujeres del Buen Pastor de
Bogota. Por el momento, el proceso penal se encuentra en etapa de instrucciôn y en el perlodo de
recaudo de pruebas. El Gobierno insistiô que en todo momento habrIa respectado las garantlas
procesales de la acusada con la plena observancia de sus derechos y de la ley colombiana.
182. Por carta fechada el 27 dejulio de 2004, el Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 10 de marzo de 2004 referente ala situaciôn de
Berenice Celeyta. El Gobierno, por medio del Departamento Administrativo de Seguridad,
informo que el 2 de abril de 2004, la afectada habla sido declinado la oportunidad de asistir a una
entrevista, por tratar temas relacionados con su seguridad, con el area de Protecciôn del DAS
Valle del Cauca. El Gobierno constatô que seguirla atento a la aceptaciôn y disponibilidad de la
interesada. Respecto a! hecho ocurrido en la sede de SINTRAEMCALI el 6 de febrero de 2004,
el Gobierno confirmo que habrIa capturado un ciudadano, dentro del proceso adelantado por la
Fiscalla Especializada, por el cual habrIa determinado la detencion preventiva por los presuntos
delitos de terrorismo y posesiôn ilegal de armas. El Gobierno informo tambien que habrIa
reforzado la seguridad en las instalaciones y plantas de EMCALI. La Fiscalla informo que pese a
que se habla ordenado insistir en la comparecencia la interesada, para escucharla en ampliacion
de denuncia y como quiera que transcurrieron más de ciento ochenta dIas desde la iniciaciôn de
la etapa preliminar, sin haberse logrado la identificacion e individualizacion de los presuntos
responsables de la conducta punible, mediante resolucion de octubre 30 de 2002, se habrIa
ordenado la suspension de las diligencias. Respecto a los nuevos hechos sucedidos los dIas 6 y
19 de febrero de 2004, el Gobierno insistiO que serla necesario remitir la denuncia ala DirecciOn
seccional de Fiscallas de Santiago de Cali, a fin de que sea asignado a! fiscal que corresponda. El
Gobierno de Colombia seguirá atento a! resultado de las investigaciones que se adelanten,
respecto de lo cual informara oportunamente a la Representante Especial.
183. Por carta fechada el 28 dejulio de 2004, el Gobierno contestO ala comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 19 de marzo de 2004 sobre Juan Carlos Celis
Gonzalez. El Gobierno confirmO que el citado ciudadano habrIa sido capturado el 10 de
diciembre de 2002, detenido sin beneficio de excarcelaciOn el 20 de diciembre de 2004 y que en
la actualidad se encuentra sujeto a una investigaciOn penal. Segün el Gobierno, se habrIan
encontrado elementos probatorios con respecto a actividades terroristas en el domicilio del
acusado. Siguiente las acusaciones, el Gobierno precisO que Juan Carlos Celis Gonzalez nunca
habrIa sido vIctima de malos tratos. No obstante, habrIa iniciado una investigaciOn de los
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presuntos atropellos que se encuentra en etapa preliminar y en práctica de pruebas. El Gobierno
comprometiô que en cuanto tenga más informacion, se lo harla del conocimiento de la
Representante Especial.
184. Por carta fechada el 20 de agosto de 2004, el Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 9 de agosto de 2004 acerca de la muerte de Fredy
Arias Arias. El Gobierno informo que el 3 de agosto de 2004, el dIa de la muerte, habrIa
convocado un Consejo de Seguridad Departamental, en el cual habrIa decidido de investigar la
muerte por medio de un equipo interinstitucional con el objeto de fortalecer las condiciones de
seguridad de la organizaciôn indIgena de Kankuama. Ademas, a dicha reunion un ofrecimiento
de recompensa por US$15,000,000 fue determinado a quien pudiera brindar más informaciOn
sobre los hechos ocurridos. Asimismo, el Gobierno habrIa incrementado los patrullajes sobre el
sector de la casa indIgena y de la residencia del Gobernador, Jaime Arias Arias, y le habrIa
asignado dos escoltas. Ademas, el 4 de agosto de 2004, habrIa organizado una reuniOn con los
lIderes Kankuamo, las autoridades departamentales y organismos de seguridad, con el propOsito
de ofrecerles medidas de seguridad y autoprotecciOn. El Gobierno seguirá atento al resultado de
la investigaciOn e informará oportunamente a la Representante Especial.
185. Por carta fechada el 21 de septiembre de 2004, el Gobierno contestO ala comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 17 de mayo de 2004 en referencia ala muerte de
Carlos Bernal. El Gobierno precisO que el difunto habrIa recibido medidas cautelares por parte
del Programa Especial de ProtecciOn para dirigentes, miembros y sobrevivientes de la UniOn
PatriOtica y del Partido Comunista Colombiano, entre ellos un esquema individual, medios de
comunicaciOn y tiquetes aéreos nacionales. Por el momento, el progreso incluye desmantelar un
centro de acopio de material de guerra empleado por las AUC para llevar a cabo los homicidios.
El Gobierno seguirá atento al resultado de las investigaciones de los hechos denunciados e
informara oportunamente a la Representante Especial.
186. Por carta fechada el 7 de octubre de 2004, el Gobierno contestO ala comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 21 dejunio de 2004 relativa a Mauricio Avilez
Alvarez. El 9 dejunio de 2004, la Fiscalla habrIa ordenado la vinculaciOn al proceso del citado
ciudadano por existir serias imputaciones en su contra como presunto responsable de los hechos
ocurridos el 16 de diciembre de 2003 en la ciudad de Barranquilla. Asimismo, el 10 dejunio de
2004 se habrIa proferido un orden de captura y le habrIa impuesto medida de aseguramiento en
orden de detenciOn preventiva por provisionales conductas punibles de concierto para delinquir,
homicidio y tentativa de homicidio con fines terroristas, en concurso con rebeliOn. La fiscal de
conocimiento expresO que la investigaciOn está de curso probatorio y en cumplimiento de los
principios fundamentales.
187. Por carta fechada el 8 de diciembre de 2004, el Gobierno contestO ala comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 21 de junio de 2004 referente al caso de Mauricio
Avilez Alvarez. El Gobierno declarO que el Procurador RegiOn del Atlantico estarla vigilante de
la situaciOn en general, y junto con el Procurador Judicial Penal, del proceso en particular. La
Fiscalla informO que mediante resoluciOn del 20 de octubre de 2003, se habrIa dispuesto a
revocar la resoluciOn mediante la cual se habrIa impulsado la medida de aseguramiento de
Mauricio Avilez Alvarez, y como consecuencia, ordenarla su libertad inmediata.
E/CN.4/2005/101/Add. 1
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188. Por carta fechada ci 24 de enero de 2005 ci Gobierno contestô nuevamente ala
comunicaciôn transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 21 dejunio de 2004 acerca de la
situaciôn de Mauricio Avilez Alvarez. El Gobierno informo que ci Ministerio dci Interior y de
Justicia habia solicitado al DAS la reaiizacion de un estudio técnico de nivel de riesgo y grado de
amenaza para determinar ci grado de vuinerabilidad en que se encuentra Mauricio Aviiez
Alvarez. Asi mismo, se soiicito a la Policia Nacional adoptar las medidas de seguridad
pertinentes para saivaguardar la vida e integridad dci mismo. Adicionaimente, ci Gobierno de
Colombia seguirá atento al resuitado de las investigaciones que se adelanten, respecto de lo cual
informara oportunamente a la Representante Especial.
189. Porcartasde
fechas 7 de octubre y 7 de diciembre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô a la comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 6 de agosto de 2004 con informacion relativa a los
lideres indigenas de Ia Organización Zonal IndIgena del Putumayo (OZIP). Segün la Policia
Nacional, habria practicado, en forma individual, un estudio técnico de nivel de riesgo y grado de
amenazas al presidente y al secretario general, Hermes Meliton Narváez y Luis Alejandro Lopez
Agreda. Tras este anaiisis, ics habria dado a conocer las medidas basicas de seguridad personal y
familiar, impuisandoies a observar estas medidas en todo momento. El 9 de Junio de 2004, ci
Defensor dci Pueblo habria solicitado al departamento de policia dci Putumayo medidas de
protecciOn por miembros de dicha organizaciOn. En la actualidad, la sede de la OZIP y las
residencias de los directivos disponen de un servicio de vigilancia mediante patruilajes y revistas
constantes. El Gobierno seguirá atento al caso. Respecto a la situaciOn dci tesorero, Antonio
Jajoy Pay, ci Gobierno informO que desde ci 15 de abril de 2004 permanecerá en Madrid para
seis meses.
190. Por cartas de fechas 12 de octubre y 7 de diciembre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO ala
comunicaciOn transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 28 de Julio de 2004 con informaciOn
en torno a la muerte de Carmen Elisa Nova llernández. El Gobierno precisO que la difunta
nunca habria solicitado ni beneficiado de medidas de protecciOn. Segün ci Gobierno,
SINTRACLITNICAS, Bucaramanga, habria solicitado protecciOn para Teresa Báez Rodriguez,
presidente y Edith Elena Rey, anterior fiscal. La Sra. Báez Rodriguez habria beneficiado de un
esquema de protecciOn colectivo en la ciudad de Bucaramanga y tiquetes nacionaics. En la
actualidad, ci Gobierno confirmO que la Fiscalia habria sido informado de la muerte de Carmen
Elisa Nova Hernández para poder adelantar las investigaciones pertinentes. Ademas, se habria
solicitado al DAS de realizar de manera urgente un estudio técnico dci nivel de riesgo a los
demas directivos de SINTRACLINICAS, Bucaramanga, con ci fin de presentar ci caso a
consideraciOn dci Comité de RegiamentaciOn y EvaluaciOn de Riesgos. Asimismo, como medida
preventiva, habria solicitado la colaboraciOn de la policia nacional en la coordinaciOn de rondas
para los mencionados dirigentes. El Gobierno seflalO que en cuanto tenga más informaciOn se lo
haria dci conocimiento de la Representante Especial.
191. Por cartas de 19 de octubre y 7 de diciembre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO ala
comunicaciOn transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 28 de mayo de 2004 sobre la
situaciOn de Carlos Alberto ilurtado Aramburu. Segün ci Gobierno, la Fiscalia General habria
abierto una investigaciOn de los hechos denunciados, la cual se encontraria en etapa previa y en
práctica de pruebas, y los resuitados de la cual serán reemitidos a la mayor brevedad posibie.
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192. Por carta fechada ci 8 de diciembre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO a otra comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 5 dejuiio de 2004 en reiaciOn con la situaciOn de
Luz Perly Córdoba. El Gobierno transmitiO un informe de la Vicepresidencia de la Repübiica
en ci cual comunicO que la Fiscaila General, despues de escuchar a la Sra. COrdoba en diligencia
de indagatoria, decretO en contra de ella imponiendo una medida de aseguramiento sin beneficio
de excarceiaciOn por ci delito de rebeiiOn. InformO que la investigada contO con todas las
oportunidades legales y constitucionales y que se le habrIa designado un defensor de oficio tras
la renuncia voluntaria de sus abogados defensores. El Gobierno dio a conocer que ci 13 de
agosto de 2004 se caiificO ci merito de la investigaciOn y se profiriO resoiuciOn de acusaciOn
contra la sindicada por los delitos de concierto para delinquir con fines de narcotrafico y
rebeiiOn. La decision quedO ejecutariada y la causa fue remitida al Juzgado de Penal dci Circuito
Especializado de Arauca para iniciar la etapa dejuicio. Se habrIa fijado ci S de enero de 2005
como fecha para la audiencia preparatoria.
193. Por carta fechada ci 8 de diciembre de 2004, ci Gobierno enviO informaciOn adicional
relativa a la muerte de Carmen Elisa Nova llernández. El 27 de septiembre de 2004, la Fiscaila
reiterO que la Unidad Nacional de Derechos Humanos y Derecho Internacional Humanitario a
Bucaramanga habrIa abierto una investigaciOn sobre ci supuesto asesinato de la difunta. Por ci
momento, la investigaciOn se encuentra en etapa previa y en práctica de pruebas. La Procuradurla
conducira tambien una investigaciOn con respecto a las amenazas y peligros de los miembros dci
sindicato SIINTRACLINICAS.
194. Por carta fechada ci 8 de diciembre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO a la comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 20 de septiembre de 2004 con referencia a la
situaciOn de la Dra. Soraya Gutiérrez. Segün ci Gobierno, y conforme con la informaciOn
enviada por ci DAS ci 18 de noviembre de 2004, la reevaiuaciOn dci servicio de seguridad de la
citada ciudadana no se habrIa ilevado a cabo porque no se habrIa contado con ci consentimiento
de la interesada.
195. Por carta fechada ci 8 de diciembre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO a la comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 9 de marzo de 2004 relativo a las presuntas
amenazas a Emilce Marroquin, Myriam Perez y Richard Alarcon. El Gobierno reaiizO la
necesidad de investigar ics hechos denunciados. Tras una reuniOn de seis organizaciones no
gubernamentaics, inciuyendo la CorporaciOn Casa de la Mujer, con funcionarios dci Programa
Presidencial de Derechos Humanos, los siguientes compromisos se habrIan estado realizados.
HabrIa decidido de formar eniaces entra ciertos comandos de policla y las sedes de las
organizaciones de riesgo de amenazas por mejorar ci contacto.
196. Por carta fechada ci 8 de diciembre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO a la comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 31 de agosto de 2004 acerca de la situaciOn de Lilia
Solano. El Gobierno informO que una investigaciOn habrIa sido iniciada de oficio por la Fiscaila
ci 28 de septiembre de 2004, la cual se encuentra en etapa previa. Tras un estudio técnico de
nivel de riesgo y grado de amenaza, las autoridades habrIan apuntado MEDJO, en consecuencia
dci cual, la interesada habrIa recibido un Avantel. En la actualidad, realizarla un estudio técnico
de seguridad a su residencia.
E/CN.4/2005/101/Add. 1
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197. Por carta fechada ci 8 de diciembre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô a la comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 23 de septiembre de 2004 respecto a la seguridad de
Claudia Julieta Duque. El Gobierno informo que habrIa presentado su caso ante ci Comité de
Regiamentacion y Evaiuacion de Riesgos y ci Programa de Protecciôn a Periodistas y
Comunicadores Sociales ci 15 de octubre de 2004. La reunion habrIa recomendado que la citada
ciudadana y su hija reciban dos tiquetes aéreos internacionaics, un vehIculo blindado y un escoita
conductor. La solicitud por la asistencia econOmica habrIa sido negada. El Programa de
ProtecciOn a Periodistas y Comunicadores Sociales por su parte desde diciembre de 2003 ic
habrIa asignado un Avantel, un esquema de seguridad, lo anterior que no habrIa sido aceptada
por la amenazada, y en ci Interin, un apoyo de transporte por 90 horas mensuales y un blindaje
arquitectOnico dci departamento. El Programa continuará solicitando a la Fiscaila y al
Departamento Administrativo de Seguridad informaciOn sobre los avances en las denuncias
presentadas.
198. Por carta fechada ci 24 de enero de 2005, ci Gobierno contestO nuevamente a la
comunicaciOn transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 23 de septiembre de 2004 acerca de la
situaciOn de Claudia Julieta Duque. El Ministerio dci Interior y de Justicia informO que
mediante Acta No. 9 de emergencia dci CRER, ci pasado 24 de noviembre se habla
recomendado la aprobaciOn de manera excepcionai, un apoyo de reubicaciOn temporal por valor
de dos miliones de pesos m/cte. ($2000000), para ci pago de un mes de arriendo de la
periodista, debido a las üitimas amenazas recibidas en contra de su vida y la de su hija. AsI
mismo, la Procuradurla Delegada para la PrevenciOn en materia de Derechos Humanos y
Asuntos Etnicos informO que revisado ci sistema sobre investigaciones disciplinarias se encontrO
que ci caso está radicado con ci No. 9-113208/04 por presunta responsabilidad por amenazas,
seguimientos y retenciOn en contra de la Sra. Claudia Julieta Duque y se encuentra en estudio
preliminar de la queja. Adicionaimente, ci Gobierno de Colombia seguirá atento al resuitado de
las investigaciones que se adelanten, respecto de lo cual informará oportunamente a la
Representante Especial.
199. Por carta fechada ci 8 de diciembre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO a la comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 21 de junio de 2004 referente al caso de Mauricio
Avilez Alvarez. El Gobierno deciarO que ci Procurador de la RegiOn dci Atiantico estarla
vigilante de la situaciOn en general, yjunto con ci Procurador Judicial Penal, dci proceso en
particular. La Fiscaila informO que mediante resoluciOn dci 20 de octubre de 2003, se habrIa
dispuesto a revocar la resoluciOn mediante la cual se habrIa impuisado la medida de
aseguramiento de Mauricio Aviiez Alvarez, y como consecuencia, ordenarla su libertad
inmediata.
200. Por carta fechada ci 24 de enero de 2005 ci Gobierno contestO nuevamente a la
comunicaciOn transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 21 dejunio de 2004 acerca de la
situaciOn de Mauricio Avilez Alvarez. El gobierno informO que ci Ministerio dci Interior y de
Justicia habla solicitado al DAS la realizaciOn de un estudio técnico de nivel de riesgo y grado de
amenaza para determinar ci grado de vuinerabilidad en que se encuentra Mauricio Aviiez
Alvarez. AsI mismo, se solicitO a la policla nacional adoptar las medidas de seguridad pertinentes
para saivaguardar la vida e integridad dci mismo. Adicionaimente, ci Gobierno de Colombia
seguirá atento al resuitado de las investigaciones que se adelanten, respecto de lo cual informara
oportunamente a la Representante Especial.
E/CN.4/2005/10 1/Add. 1
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Seguimiento de comunicaciones transmitidas previamente
201. Por carta fechada el 28 de mayo de 2004, el Gobierno contestô a la comunicaciôn
transmitida el 11 de agosto de 2003 y el 20 de noviembre de 2003 por la Representante Especial
con respecto a la situaciôn de Wilson David Higuita y los miembros de la Coniunidad de Paz
de San José de Apartadó. La Defensorla del pueblo informô que asesorô la instauraciôn de una
acciôn de tutela contra el comandante de la XVII Brigada del ejército nacional e intervino como
coayuvante entorno a! caso de Wilson David Higuita. El 17 de octubre de 2003, la Fiscalla
informó que en la Fiscalla Novena especializada de MedellIn, Antoquia, se adelanta la
investigaciôn, donde figuran como ofendidos el Sr.Higuita y otros miembros de la comunidad de
Paz, por hechos ocurridos en febrero de 2003.
202. Por carta fechada el 29 de mayo de 2004 el Gobierno contestô a la comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 3 de diciembre de 2003. El Gobierno informô que
reconociô la peticiôn recibida del Colectivo de Abogados José Alvear Restrepo con respecto a
las amenazas dirigidas a su compafiera de trabajo Adriana Cuellar e informó que las
autoridades encargadas de la seguridad püblica habrIan efectuado una investigación. Segün el
Gobierno, un estudio técnico de seguridad, incluyendo el nivel y grado de amenaza, por el DAS
habrIa sido un requisito para acceder al Programa de Protección a Periodistas. El Colectivo
habria contestado que un estudio no se requeria por parte de la policia nacional, y no habria dado
consentimiento al DAS. Sin embargo, el Gobierno seguirá los investigaciones y remitirá los
resultados a la Representante Especial.
Observaciones
203. In 2004, following an agreement with the Government of Colombia, the Special
Representative conducted a tw-day follow-up visit to her country visit to Colombia in 2001
(E/CN.4/2002/106/Add.2) to assess the of the situation of human rights defenders in the country.
She thanks the Government for its cooperation in arranging this follow-up visit and making itself
available for meetings. While in Bogota, the Special Representative had the opportunity to meet
with the Vice-President, representatives of the military, the Prosecutor's Office and the Foreign
Ministry. She also thanks the Attorney General's Office and representatives of the Constitutional
Court for having met with her. She also met with a wide spectrum of civil society
representatives, including many organizations that she had met with in 2001.
204. Since the Special Representative's visit to Colombia in 2001, a number of significant
developments have taken place. For general developments, see also the report of the High
Commissioner on the situation in Colombia (E/CN.4/2005/10). On 21 February 2002, peace talks
between the Government of Colombia and FARC broke down, combat between the security
forces and illegal armed groups intensified, and there was a subsequent increase in violence
throughout the country. On 7 August 2002, a new Government came to power under President
Alvaro Uribe.
205. On 11 August 2002, a state of emergency was declared under Decree No. 1837, allowing
restrictions including on freedom of expression, movement and assembly. On 29 April 2003, the
Constitutional Court ruled against a renewal of the state of emergency, declaring it incompatible
E/CN. 4/2005/101/Add. 1
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with the Constitution of 1991. Subsequently, the Government sought to amend the Constitution
under a bill known as the “Anti-Terrorist Statute” adopted in December 2003, which inter alia
restored judicial powers to armed forces. The Special Representative expresses her concern that
this legislation, which contradicts recommendations made by United Nations human rights
bodies, and adversely affects the ability of human rights defenders to carry out their work. On 30
August 2004, the Colombian Constitutional Court, with a majority 5 to 4 decision, rejected
Legislative Act 02 of 2003 (Anti-Terrorist Statute) because of procedural errors.
206. The Government also adopted the Democratic Security Policy, aimed at combating
terrorism, regaining control of the national territory and strengthening democratic institutions.
While some aspects of this policy have been welcomed, concern has been voiced that many other
aspects adversely impact human rights and the rule of law, including the recruitment of a
network of paid informer, in an attempt to involve civilians in maintaining security, which has
led to a climate of distrust among the population. It is reported that in some regions, people have
grown reluctant to denounce human rights abuses for fear of reprisals. Consequently, human
rights organizations have faced increasing difficulty to monitor and report on the human rights
situation. This policy has also resulted in blurring the distinction between civilians and
combatants, thus further exposing civilians, in particular human right defenders, to unacceptable
levels of risk.
207. Since her mission to Colombia, the Special Representative has continued to receive
information on grave human rights violations committed against human rights defenders. In
2002, she sent 17 communications to the Government of Colombia regarding 34 cases of alleged
violations against human rights defenders, including 14 killings. In 2003, 12 communications
were sent and in 2004, 31 communications were sent regarding 11 killings of human rights
defenders, death threats and detentions. The majority of these attacks were reportedly perpetrated
by paramilitaries. While official figures indicate a decrease in indicators of violence, including
homicide by 22 per cent, massacres by 33 per cent, kidnappings by 26 per cent and forced
displacement by 52 per cent, politically motivated or selective killings, arbitrary detentions and
torture while in detention and enforced disappearances are on the rise. In view of this
information, the Special Representative is gravely concerned that the situation of human rights
defenders in Colombia remains critical and has recently degraded in some areas.
208. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its detailed responses and
welcomes its cooperation with her mandate. She welcomes the willingness of the authorities to
investigate reported violations. Nevertheless, in the majority of instances, cases are still pending
and only few investigations have resulted in the indictment of the perpetrators or in their
sentencing. As a result, acts against human rights defenders continue to be committed with
impunity and actions taken by the Government have not had the expected impact.
209. Government policies have resulted in new challenges for human rights defenders. It is
reported that the policies of mass arrests and large-scale raids under the state of emergency and
Anti-Terrorist Statute have led to the arrest of NGO members as well raids on NGO offices.
These practices have adversely affected human rights defenders' ability to carry out their work.
Many reported having to limit their activities and felt they had to restrain their freedom of
expression in the interest of their safety.
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210. During her follow-up visit, the Special Representative sought to assess the
implementation of her recommendations. She notes that while some positive steps have been
taken, the environment for the security of defenders has deteriorated, which has seriously
hampered their ability to carry out their human rights activities. Despite positive developments,
recommendations appear not to have been consistently integrated in Government policies. As a
result, they have not had the awaited impact on the situation of human rights defenders.
Concerns were expressed that the Government attributed insufficient priority to human rights and
international humanitarian law and that projects for constitutional reforms and new laws
introduced by the Government in the course of 2003 may be incompatible with international
norms. In particular, proposals to reduce the power of the Constitutional Court and the
Prosecutor General's Office raised concerns amongst defenders.
211. According to reports, the level of impunity for human rights violations continues to be
very high. Recently, a unit to fight against impunity was established as part of the human rights
and international humanitarian law Presidential Programme within the Office of the Vice-
President. The Government has committed itself to follow up on investigations into serious
human rights violations through the work of a special committee and the design and
implementation of a public policy to fight impunity. However, defenders indicated that to date,
the committee has not produced significant results or made any effective progress in its
investigations. There continues to be a decrease in investigations and prosecutions of human
rights violations by the military and a dismissal of cases of collusion with paramilitaries brought
against high-ranking military officials. The issuing of Decree No. 128 fails to meet international
standards and risks perpetuating a climate particularly detrimental to human rights defenders.
212. On 15 July 2003, the a agreement was signed between the Government and the United
Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (AUC) which stipulated their complete demobilization by
2005, a ceasefire and a halt to kidnappings. In May 2004, paramilitaries involved in peace talks
with the Government agreed to remain in a designated “safe zone” within which they would be
immune from arrest or extradition. Despite these negotiations and the group's self-declared
ceasefire, paramilitary groups have continued to perpetrate grave human rights violations
including massacres, selective homicides and disappearances. As a result, despite positive
actions taken by the Government, human rights defenders have continued to face serious threats
from these groups. Nearly half of the communications sent in 2004 concerned reports of
violations committed by paramilitaries. While the President in his speeches has indicated that
there is a need to return to the rule of law, decisive action to dismantle ties between the
paramilitaries and public servants has not yet been undertaken. Further efforts are still required
from the Government to significantly address this issue in order make the situation of human
rights defenders safer.
213. The Special Representative welcomes the fact that a dialogue between the Government
and human rights organizations continues to take place. In this respect, a decentralization project
for human rights and international humanitarian law has been established in 16 departments
under the direction of the Ministry of the Interior and the Presidential Human Rights programme.
However, despite several positive initiatives by the Government, relations between the
Government and NGOs continues to be characterized by mutual distrust.
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214. Meetings to adopt measures for the protection of trade unionists were also organized by
the Vice-President and the Minister for Social Protection with the participation of union leaders
and regional leaders.Despite these initiatives, the situation of trade unionists continues to be of
grave concern. In the first 8 months of 2004, the Special Representative received information on
the killing of four family members of a prominent trade unionist, one member of health workers
union and a trade unionist of SINTRACLINICAS.
215. Despite the ratification in July 2003 of the Presidential Directive 07 which instructs
public servants to respect human rights defenders and the work of their organizations, public
attacks against the credibility of defenders have continued. Governmental authorities have
publicly questioned the legitimacy of human rights organizations, including international NGOs,
accusing them of being at the service of terrorism. The Special Representative expresses her
gravest concern at the increase in public statements stigmatizing human rights defenders as
“enemies”. Given the deterioration in the security situation of defenders, such statements
increase the risk of attacks by paramilitaries and arrests and raids by national security forces.
216. The Special Representative welcomes the expansion of the protection programme within
the Ministry of the Interior which benefited from an increase in budget in 2003 and covered
8,840 individuals including NGO members, union leaders and Journalists. Despite these positive
developments, the programme has not had the awaited impact on the safety of human rights
defenders. Difficulties in administering the risk assessment process and lack a consistent policy
on the part of the State have reportedly delayed its implementation. Defenders have expressed a
lack of confidence in the programme and refused to take advantage of it. Many fear that the
programme could be used to gather further intelligence on them, as those designated for their
protection are part of the groups reported to perpetrate the abuses. Cases sent by the Special
Representative in 2004 illustrate the programme's limitations, as at least two beneficiaries were
killed, another arrested and yet another received death threat on the cell phone provided to him
by the programme. There is a consensus that the situation of human rights defenders can only
improve with a change in attitude for authorities. As long as senior Government officials
continue to stigmatize defenders as adversaries, no protection programme, regardless of how
well funded, can successfully ensure their safety.
Costa Rica
Comunicaciones enviadas
217. El 3 de agosto de 2004, la Representante Especial enviô una carta de alegacion. El 3 de
Julio 2004, a las 6.25 de la tarde, el personal de Casa Alianza en la ciudad de San José, Costa
Rica, habria recibido una amenaza de bomba dejada supuestamente por un desconocido en el
contestador telefonico de la organizaciôn. Durante el mismo dia, el equipo del Programa de
Apoyo Legal de Casa Alianza se habr la trasladado a la Comunidad de Orotina donde habrian
entrevistado a algunos de las presuntas victimas de un profugo sacerdote, quien segün las
informaciones recibidas habria sido acusado en 1998 en la Fiscalia AdJunta de San Carlos de
abusos deshonestos cometidos contra personas menores de edad en la region. Sin embargo, el
sacerdote habria huido del pals dos dias después de ser acusado. Segün se informa, poco tiempo
después de salir de la ciudad de Orotina se habria deJado la amenaza telefOnica en la que se
referia a una bomba y la exigencia de parar de buscar al sacerdote. Se teme que esta supuesta
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amenaza de bomba efectuada contra ci personal de Casa Aiianza pueda estar relacionada con su
trabajo como defensores de los derechos humanos y en particular su trabajo como defensores de
los derechos humanos de las personas menores de edad.
Comunicaciones recibidas
218. Por carta fechada ci 10 de septiembre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô a la comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 3 de agosto de 2004 sobre las amenazas recibidas
por la organizaciôn Casa Alianza. El Gobierno confirmo que una denuncia habrIa sido
presentada, y por consecuencia una investigaciôn iniciada, mediante la cual habrIa estabiecido
que la ilamada provenla de un teléfono pübiico. Las autoridades habrIan entrevistado a varias
personas que trabajan cerca de dicha cabina teiefonica con ci fin de recabar más
informacion,pero informo que ya no se habrIa ilegado a ningün resuitado concreto para
identificar al autor dci hecho.
Observaciones
219. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its comprehensive response. She
acknowledges the steps taken by the Government to identify the perpetrators and the
investigation carried out.
Côte d'Ivoire
Communications envoyées
220. Le 2juin 2004, la Représentante spéciale, conjointement avec ic Rapporteur special sur la
promotion et la protection du droit a la hberté d'opinion et d'expression et ic Rapporteur special
sur ics executions extrajudiciaires, sommaires ou arbitraires, a envoyé un appel urgent
concernant des rapports scion lesquels Amourlaye Touré et Mamadou Fofana, tous deux
membres du Mouvement ivoirien pour ics droits de i'homme (MIDH), seraient soumis a des
actes d'intimidation et a des menaces de mort. Scion ics informations reçues, Amourlayc Touré,
président par interim du MIDH, aurait récemment reçu des menaces de mort alors qu'ii se
trouvait a Genéve, oü ii participait a des reunions organisécs dans ic cadre de la session annuelie
de la Commission des droits de i'homme des Nations Unies. Mamadou Fofana serait quanta iui
entré dans la ciandestinite aprés avoir été la cibie d'actes d'intimidation ics 25 et 26 avrii,
iorsqu'un groupe de civils se serait présenté a son domicile en i'accusant de <>. Scion ics informations reçues, ces menaces et intimidations pourraient
être iiees a la publication par ic MIDH, ic 28 avrii 2004, d'un rapport sur des violations des
droits humains commises a Abidjan a la suite d'un defile organisC ic 25 mars, au cours duquel ics
forces de sCcuritC auraient recouru a une force excessive pour disperser ics manifestants
pacifiques et non armés.
221. Le 19 novembre 2004, la Représentante speciale a envoyé une iettre d'aiiegation
concernant Madame Olga Nana Mianda Mwanza, citoyenne congolaise residant en Côte
d'Ivoire et membre du secretariat de la Commission d'enquête internationaic des Nations Unies
sur ics violations des droits de i'homme en Côte d'Ivoire du 15 juilliet au 15 septembre 2004.
Scion ics informations reçues, en raison de son service auprés de la Commission, die aurait été
E/CN.4/2005/101/Add. 1
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attaquCe, molestee et menacCe avec sa famille par des Jeunes patriotes au cours des CvCnements
du 6 au 11 novembre 2004 a Abidjan. Sa residence aurait etC saccagCe et cue aurait perdu tous
ses biens. File aurait trouvC refuge avec sa mere, son frCre et ses deux enfants tout d'abord
auprCs de l'ONTJCI et de l'armee française, avant d'être CvacuCe vers Accra (Ghana), le 15
novembre 2004.
Communications reçues
222. Par lettre en date du 29 decembre 2004, le Gouvernement a repondu a l'appel urgent en
date du 2juin 2004. Ii a indique que les faits s'inscrivent dans le contexte des CvCnements de
novembre 2004 au cours desquels de nombreuses violations des droits de l'homme ont etC
commises. Le Gouvernement a indique que des enquêtes ont etC ouvertes pour faire la lumi Cre
sur ces faits. Dans sa rCponse, le Gouvernement a mis en cause la responsabilite de la France
quanta l'inaboutissement de ces enquêtes. Quant aux faits, le Gouvernement a notC qu'il Ctait
hasardeux d'imputer ceux-ci aux <>, qu'il a dit être des <> ala
tentative d'occupation d'Abidjan par les militaires français de l'op eration Licorne. Le
Gouvernement a souhgn e qu'il considerait les patriotes comme des defenseurs des droits de
l'homme luttant pour defendre leur droit a l'autodetermination inscrit dans la Charte des Nations
Unies. Le Gouvernement a souligne que la Côte d'Ivoire subissait depuis 2002 une agression
armee, condamnee par la communaute internationale et africaine. Dans sa reponse, le
Gouvernement a mis en cause egalement la responsabilite de la France dans les evenements
survenus en novembre 2004. Notamment, ii a explique qu'aprCs la destruction des avions de la
base de Yamoussoukro, et croyant a un coup d'Etat, des milliers de citoyens ivoiriens etaient
sortis pour protester et defendre la legalite constitutionnelle par des moyens pacifiques scion les
articles 29 et 5 de la Charte africaine. Le Gouvernement a egalement mis en cause la
responsabilite des forces françaises dans une serie de violations des droits de l'homme.
Observations
223. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its response in the case of Olga
Nana Mianda Mwanza. While she acknowledges the Government's information with regard to
the context in which the violation alleged in the communication took place, she notes that the
response does not provide any information with regard to the specifics of the case raised in her
communication. She regrets the absence of response to her other communication. She remains
concerned about the safety of human rights defenders in Côte d'Ivoire.
Cuba
Comunicaciones enviadas
224. El 22 de septiembre de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con ci Relator Especial
sobre ci derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn, enviO una carta de alegaciOn con
respecto al periodista Carlos Brizuela Yera, de la agencia de prensa independiente Colegio de
Periodistas Jndependientes de CamagUey, que habrIa sido condenado ci 26 de abril de 2004 por
ci tribunal provincial popular de Ciego de Avila a tres aflos de carcel por “desacato”, “desorden
püblico”, “resistencia ala autoridad” y “desobediencia”. El Sr. Brizuela Yera habrIa sidojuzgado
junto con otras nueve personas por manifestar, ci 4 de marzo de 2002, delante dcl hospital en que
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se encontraba ingresado Jesus Alvarez Castillo, al que la policia habria golpeado. Entre las otras
personas figuraria Lester Tellez Castro, director de la agencia independiente Agencia de Prensa
Vileza, en el momento de los hechos y condenado a tres aflos y medio de prisiôn. Los otros ocho
acusados serian miembros de la organizaciôn local de defensa de los derechos humanos
Fundacion Cubana de Derechos Humanos (FCDH) y habrian sido condenados a penas que van
de tres aflos de residencia vigilada a siete aflos de prisiôn incondicional. Estas personas son
Lázaro Iglesias Estrada, Enrique Garcia Morejôn. Antonio Marcelino Garcia Morejôn, Delio
Laureano Requejo Rodriguez, Virgilio Mantilla Mango, Odalmis Hernández Márquez, Ana
Peláez Garcia y Juan Carlos Gonzalez Leyva, abogado invidente y presidente de la FCDH.
Seguimiento de comunicaciones transmitidas previamente
225. Por carta fechada el 25 de octubre de 2004, el Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 28 de noviembre de 2003 con respecto a la situaciôn
de Oscar Espinosa Chepe. El Gobierno negô los hechos resumidos en la carta y seflalo que el
citado ciudadano habria contado sin excepciôn con toda la atenciôn y tratamientos medicos
necesarios y con el derecho a varias visitas familiares.
Observaciones
226. The Special Representative would like to thank the Government for its response and
looks forward to receiving responses to her other communications. The Special Representative
welcomes the reported release of a number of long-term detainees, including Oscar Espinosa
Chepe, Raul Rivero, Marcelo Manuel Lopez Banobre, Osvaldo Alfonso, Edel Jose Garcia Diaz
and Margarito Broche Espinosa. Nevertheless, she remains concerned by the ongoing detention
and heavy sentencing of numerous human rights defenders in Cuba.
Democratic Republic of Congo
Communications envoyées
227. Le 21 avril 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special sur
la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, la Presidente-
Rapporteur du Groupe de travail sur la detention arbitraire, le Rapporteur special sur la torture et
la Rapporteuse speciale sur les executions extrajudiciaires, sommaires ou arbitraires, a envoye un
appel urgent concernant la situation de Dieudonné Been Masudi Kingombe, directeur du
Centre des droits de l'homme et du droit humanitaire (CDH), une association de defense des
droits de l'homme basee a Lubumbashi, Grégoire Mulamba Tschisabamka, secretaire general
de la CDH et Me Freddy Kitoko, vice-president de l'ASADHO/Katanga (Association africaine
de defense des droits de l'homme/Katanga). Selon les informations reçues, M. Dieudonne Been
Masudi Kingombe aurait etc arrête le samedi 10 avril 2004 a 18 heures, a Lubumbashi, par des
officiers de l'Agence nationale de renseignements (ANR). Ii aurait etc transfere a la direction
provinciale de l'ANR oü il aurait etc frappe violemment au corps et a la tête, et un agent de
l'ANR aurait tente de lui arracher l'oreille par morsure. M. Been Masudi aurait etc libere deux
heures plus tard dans un etat de sante precaire. Le motif de son arrestation ne lui aurait pas etc
communique. Gregoire Mulamba Tschisabamka et Me Freddy Kitoko auraient quant a eux etc
arretes le 15 avril 2004 par des agents de l'ANR, semble-t-il sur ordre du directeur provincial de
E/CN.4/2005/101/Add. 1
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l'ANR, dont le nom est connu des Rapporteurs spéciaux et de la Représentante spéciale. Aucune
information n'a été reçue sur le lieu de detention de ces personnes ni sur les éventuelles
accusations portées contre elles. Ii semblerait de plus que l'ANR détiendrait une liste sur laquelle
figureraient 10 noms de personnes a arréter, dont certains sont connus des Rapporteurs spéciaux
et de la Représentante spéciale, tous membres d'associations de defense des droits de l'homme.
Ces arrestations seraient intervenues aprés la parution, le 6 avril 2004, d'un communiqué de
presse du CDH dCnonçant la situation d'insCcuritC des ressortissants de la province de l'Equateur
vivant au Katanga. Selon les informations reçues, le 8 avril 2004, l'Observatoire national des
droits de l'homme aurait contactC par téléphone les membres du CDH et les aurait informés du
<> du gouverneur du Katanga, a la suite de la publication de cc communiqué.
Depuis le 10 avril 2004, le secrétaire général du CDH, M. Grégoire Mulamba Tshisakamba,
aurait reçu plusieurs fois parjour des appels anonymes le menaçant de mort. Des craintes ont été
exprimées que cette arrestation ne soit en relation avec le travail de defense des droits de
l'homme des personnes susmentionnées.
228. Le 27 avril 2004, la Représentante spéciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special sur
la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberté d'opinion et d'expression et la Rapporteuse
spéciale sur la situation des droits de l'homme en République démocratique du Congo, a envoyé
un appel urgent concernant Faustin Bella Mako, correspondant pour la province du Katanga de
l'organisation non gouvernementale Journalistes en danger (JED), organisation de formation et
de defense des droits des journalistes, et directeur de l'hebdomadaire << Congo News >>, paraissant
a Lubumbashi, chef-lieu de la province du Katanga, qui aurait été interpellé le 20 avril 2004 vers
11 heures a l'aéroport international de Lubumbashi-Luano par des agents de l'Agence nationale
de renseignements (ANR). Ii semblerait que M. Mako ait été arrété au moment oü il s'apprêtait a
embarquer a bord d'un vol régulier de la Compagnie africaine d'aviation (CAA) en partance
pour Kinshasa. Ii serait garde en detention dans les cachots de l'Agence nationale des
renseignements (ANR) dans la commune de Lubumbashi. Bella Mako était, semble-t-il, attendu
le 21 avril a Kinshasa oü s'était ouverte une session de formation de tous les correspondants de
JIED a travers la République démocratique du Congo, consacrée aux techniques d'investigation
sur les allegations d'atteintes a la liberté de la presse et a la redaction des alertes.
229. Le 3 mai 2004, la Représentante spéciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special sur la
promotion et la protection du droit a la liberté d'opinion et d'expression, a envoyé une lettre
d'allégation concernant la nuit du 27 au 28 avril 2004 : alors que M. Paul Nsapu rentrait chez lui
en voiture vers 23 h 45, aprés avoir assisté au séminaire organisé par l'Organisation
internationale de la francophonie (OIF) intitulé << Gestion de la transition au regard du role des
institutions d'appui a la democratic >>, il aurait été suivi par deux voitures aux vitres teintées et
aux plaques d'immatriculation maquillées. Les conducteurs de ces deux véhicules auraient tenté
de provoquer un accident sur le boulevard du 30-Juin au niveau du batiment de la Régie des
eaux, a Kinshasa, puis l'auraient poursuivi jusqu'a une station-service fréquentée au rond-point
de la Victoire, oü M. Nsapu se serait réfugié. Ses poursuivants l'auraient surveillé pendant une
demi-heure avant de partir. Des craintes ont été exprimées que cette agression ne représente une
forme de représailles pour ces activités en faveur des droits de l'homme. Selon les informations
reçues, cette agression survient au lendemain d'une interview que M. Paul Nsapu avait donnée a
la chaine de télévision Antenne A, reprise par Télé-Kin-Malebo (TKM), concernant la situation
politique en RDC et la suite a donner a la saisine de la Cour pénale internationale (CPI) sur les
violations des droits de l'homme dans l'est de la RDC.
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230. Le 11 juin 2004, la Représentante spéciale, conjointement avec la Présidente-Rapporteur
du Groupe de travail sur la detention arbitraire, a envoyé un appel urgent relativement a
l'arrestation de Robert Ilunga Numbi, président de l'ONG Les Amis de Nelson Mandela pour
la defense des droits de l'homme (ANMDH), Rodolphe Mafuta, président de l'ONG Bana
Kalamu, Kally Kalala et Lems Kalema, respectivement président et membre de l'ONG Bana
Matonge. D'aprês les informations reçues, Robert Ilunga Numbi, Rodolphe Mafuta, Kally Kalala
et Lems Kalema, auraient été arrétés le 7 juin 2004 alors qu'ils s'étaient présentés
volontairement auprés de l'inspecteur de police judiciaire Khonde suite a une convocation datée
du lenjuin 2004. Ils seraient détenus, sans avoir été informés de leurs droits, dans un petit cachot
insalubre situé dans la cave de l'immeuble abritant la direction générale de la police judiciaire
des parquets situé au 30 de l'avenue Kalemie, commune de la Gombe a Kinshasa. Les visites de
leur famille ainsi que celles d'un médecin leur auraient été interdites et ils auraient été privés de
l'assistance d'un avocat. Des craintes ont été exprimées que cette arrestation vise a réprimer les
activités menées par ces organisations en faveur des droits de l'homme et, notamment, suite au
litige relatif a un chantier de construction sur un terrain destine aux jeux des enfants spoliés dans
le quartier de Matonge II a Kinshasa.
231. Le 16 juillet 2004, la Représentante spéciale a envoyé un appel urgent concernant
M. Floribert Chebeya Bahizire le président de l'ONG la Voix des Sans-Voix pour les droits de
l'homme (VSV). Selon les informations reçues, le 6 juillet 2004, alors qu'il se rendait a un
rendez-vous avec un journaliste du journal << Le Potentiel >> au siege du quotidien a Kinshasa,
quatre hommes armés auraient interpellé Floribert Chebeya Bahizire aux abords dujournal et
l'auraient fouillé sous prétexte de rechercher un tract hostile au Gouvernement. Ils lui auraient
confisqué sa sacoche et extorqué de l'argent. Ils auraient ensuite semblé attendre des
instructions. M. Floribert Chebeya Bahizire aurait profité d'un moment d'inattention de ses
présumés ravisseurs pour leur échapper et se réfugier dans les locaux dujournal. Les hommes
seraient restés aux abords dujournaljusqu'a cc que les journalistes leur demandent de partir.
Floribert Chebeya Bahizire ne serait ressorti que plus tard. Des craintes ont été exprimées que cet
incident ne soit lie aux activités de defense des droits de l'homme de M. Floribert Chebeya
Bahizire en particulier dans le cadre des activités de son organisation VSV. Ces craintes sont
d'autant plus vives qu'il aurait déjà fait l'objet de menaces verbales de la part de hauts
représentants de la Cour d'ordre militaire, aujourd'hui dissoute, qui l'auraient contraint a se
réfugier dans la clandestinité fin 2002. Le 6 janvier 2003, la VSV, craignant pour la sécurité et la
vie de son président, aurait décidé de suspendre ses activités pendant un mois. Floribert Chebeya
Bahizire ne serait rentré en RDC qu'en avril 2003.
Communications reçues
232. Par lettre en date du 3 juillet 2004, le Gouvernement a répondu a la communication
envoyée par la Représentante spéciale le 3 mai 2004 relative a Paul Nsapu, l'informant qu'il
serait dans l'impossibilité de verifier les dires énoncés dans l'appel urgent ou d'identifier les
responsables, aucune plainte n'ayant été déposée par la victime et par consequent aucune enquête
n'ayant été ouverte.
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233. Par lettre en date du 28 juillet 2004, le Gouvernement a informe la Représentante spéciale
que l'appel urgent, envoyé le 16 juillet 2004, relatif a la situation de M. Floribert Chebeya
Bahizire, aurait été transmis aux autorités compétentes dans la capitale.
Observations
234. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its replies to two of the
communications sent. She regrets, however, that as of the date of the present report, the
Government has not provided any clarification with regard to the reported attacks against human
rights defenders. In this respect she notes that also with regard to the communications sent in the
course of the year 2003 the Government has not, as to date, provided the clarifications it
undertook to submit.
235. The Special Representative expresses her deep concern at the persistant situation of
widespread intimidation of human rights defenders and obstruction of their work emerging from
the communications, and at the apparent climate of impunity in which these attacks take place.
She recalls that the protection of the rights enshrined in the Declaration on human rights
defenders is vital to the promotion of human rights, as well as to the re-establishment of peace
and security, and renews her invitation to the Government to take resolute steps in this direction.
She thanks the Government for responding favourably to her request for an invitation to visit the
country and hopes that dates can be agreed on soon in order for her visit to take place shortly.
Ecuador
Comunicaciones enviadas
236. El 3 de febrero de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn y el Relator Especial sobre la situaciOn de los
derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentales de los indIgenas, enviO un llamamiento urgente
sobre la situaciOn del Sr. Leonidas Iza, presidente de la ConfederaciOn de Nacionalidades
IndIgenas del Ecuador (CONAIE). D c acuerdo con las informaciones recibidas, el 10 de febrero
de 2004, hacia las 22 horas, el Sr. Iza y los familiares que le acompaflaban, habrIan sido
atacados por hombres desconocidos que, después de amenazar al Sr. Iza diciéndole “te vamos a
matar”, habrIan comenzado a disparar al grupo a quemarropa, hiriendo a un hijo, a un sobrino y a
un hermano del Sr. Iza, los cuales se encuentran hospitalizados. Segün la fuente, el hijo del Sr.
Iza habrIa recibido disparos de arma de fhego en el abdomen por lo que habrIa tenido que ser
operado de urgencia y se encuentra en estado de salud muy grave. Se teme que el ataque contra
el Sr. Iza estarla en conexiOn con sus acciones en defensa del pueblo, en particular de las
poblaciones indIgenas, y a sus manifestaciones püblicas contra el Tratado de Libre Comercio
(TLC), el Area de Libre Comercio de las Americas y las polIticas del Presidente de la Repüblica.
Segün los informes, el Sr. Iza habrIa criticado püblicamente al Presidente, luego de que el
mandatario rompiera una alianza con los indIgenas gracias a los que habla accedido al poder en
las elecciones del aflo 2000. Ademas, habla anunciado que la CONAIE, dentro del ambito de su
trabajo, preparaba la realizaciOn de protestas contra la polItica del Gobierno.
237. El 27 de febrero de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre
la situaciOn de los derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentales de los indIgenas, enviO un
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liamamiento urgente en relacion con las amenazas recibidas por los miembros de la Fundación
Pachamama, una organizaciôn de derechos humanos que apoya a la comunidad indigena de
Sarayaku en la provincia de Pastaza en su oposiciôn a la concesion otorgada a una empresa
extranjera de extracciôn de petroleo en su territorio. Este caso ya fue objeto de la especial
atenciôn del Relator Especial sobre la situaciôn de los derechos humanos y las libertades
fundamentales de los indigenas en su informe de 2004sobre sus comunicaciones con los Estados
(E/CN.4/2004/80/Add. 1). Segün la informacion recibida, en noviembre de 2002 la comunidad de
Sarayaku habrla declarado un “estado de alerta” para lograr una movilizacion contra la incursion
de la Compaflia General de Combustibles (CGC) en su territorio. Desde entonces, la comunidad
habria sido objeto de una campafla de intimidaciOn y difamaciOn, y en febrero de 2003 dos
dirigentes indigenas de la comunidad, Franco Viteri y José Gaulinga, habrian sido amenazados
de muerte. El 5 de mayo de 2003, la ComisiOn Jnteramericana de Derechos Humanos dictO
medidas cautelares a favor de los lideres indigenas mencionados anteriormente, y de varios
miembros de la comunidad de Sarayaku. El 17 de diciembre del mismo aflo estas medidas fueron
ampliadas durante un periodo de seis meses, después de que varios miembros de los comunidad
de Sarayaku fueran victimas de repetidas amenazas de muerte y de agresiones fisicas los dias 4 y
5 de diciembre de 2003, cuando se habrian movilizado ala ciudad de Puyo. Asimismo, segün la
informaciOn recibida, el 18 de enero de 2004, el Ministro de Energia y Minas habria declarado
“la OEA no manda aqul”. En este contexto y segün se informa, el 12 de febrero, el personal de la
FundaciOn Pachamama habria recibido tres llamadas telefOnicas anOnimas amenazadoras por
parte de un individuo desconocido. En la primera llamada, recibida por la maflana, el individuo
habria dicho “el petrOleo es el desarrollo del pals, si ustedes se oponen, aténganse a las
consecuencias”. Poco después, el mismo individuo habria vuelto a llamar y habria insultado al
personal de la FundaciOn Pachamama. Al cabo de varios minutos, el individuo habria llamado
una tercera vez y les habr la amenazado de muerte. Se teme que estas presuntas amenazas de
muerte estén relacionadas con el trabajo llevado a cabo por la FundaciOn Pachamama a favor de
la comunidad indigena Sarayaku en su oposiciOn a la extracciOn de petrOleo en su territorio.
238. El S de marzo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y el Relator Especial sobre la situaciOn de los
derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentales de los indigenas, enviO un llamamiento urgente
en relaciOn con la situaciOn de las organizaciones dedicadas a la protecciOn de los derechos
humanos, las tradiciones culturales y el territorio de la comunidad Sarayaku, ubicada en la selva
amazOnica ecuatoriana, en la provincia de Pastaza. En este caso se llama la atenciOn urgente del
Gobierno sobre la informaciOn adicional recibida en relaciOn con las agresiones sufridas por el
Sr. Marion Santi, presidente de la AsociaciOn Sarayaku, una organizaciOn dedicada a la defensa
de la cultura, las tradiciones y los derechos humanos de la comunidad indigena Kichwa de
Sarayaku. Se seflala que la situaciOn de dicha comunidad ya fue objeto de un llamamiento
urgente enviado conjuntamente el 27 de febrero de 2004 por el Relator Especial sobre la
situaciOn de los derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentales de los indigenas y la
Representante Especial. Segün la informaciOn recibida, el Sr. Marlon Santi the agredido y
golpeado en Quito la noche del 29 de febrero de 2004. Después, los agresores se habrian llevado
los documentos de identificaciOn personal y de viaje del Sr. Santi, asi como su dinero.
Posteriormente, el agredido informO del suceso y del robo a las autoridades ecuatorianas. Se
teme que esta acciOn esté debida a la intenciOn del Sr. Santi de viajar a Costa Rica el dia 3 de
marzo, para asistir a una reuniOn en apoyo de la causa presentada por la comunidad indigena de
Sarayaku ante la ComisiOn Jnteramericana de Derechos Humanos contra el Estado de Ecuador y
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la empresa petrolera argentina CompaflIa General de Combustibles (CGC). En este contexto y
segün las informaciones recibidas, la comunidad de Sarayaku habrIa sido objeto de una campafla
de intimidacion, aparentemente a consecuencia de su oposiciôn a la concesiôn otorgada a las
empresas petroleras para que empiecen los trabajos de perforaciôn en su territorio. Segün se
informa, las organizaciones locales de derechos humanos que apoyan la reclamacion de la
comunidad de Sarayaku también habrIan recibido amenazas de muerte, como es el caso de la
Fundacion Pachamama. La comunidad de Sarayaku afirma que la extracciôn de petroleo en su
territorio daflarla su entorno y su forma de vida. En este sentido, la propia comunidad ha
propuesto un desarrollo alternativo y sostenible en su territorio para que su cultura no sufra las
consecuencias de tales actuaciones. En mayo de 2003, la Comisiôn Interamericana de Derechos
humanos ordeno a Ecuador que protegiera a la comunidad de Sarayaku después de que algunos
de sus dirigentes recibieron amenazas de muerte en febrero de ese mismo aflo. En diciembre, la
Comisiôn amplio las medidas cautelares después de que miembros de la comunidad de Sarayaku
fueron vIctimas de repetidas amenazas de muerte y de agresiones fIsicas y verbales durante una
manifestacion celebrada ese mismo mes.
239. El 16 de marzo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn y el Relator Especial sobre la situaciOn de los
derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentales de los indIgenas, enviO un llamamiento urgente
sobre la situaciOn de Pablo Xavier OrtIz, asesor de la organizaciOn indIgena Jnstituto
Amazango, una organizaciOn que apoya a la comunidad indIgena de Sarayaku, en la provincia de
Pastaza. Dicha comunidad ya fue objeto de dos llamamientos urgentes enviados conjuntamente
el 27 de febrero de 2004 y el 5 marzo de 2004 por la Representante Especial, el Relator Especial
sobre la situaciOn de los derechos humanos y libertades fundamentales de los indIgenas, y el
Relator Especial sobre el derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn. También se llama a la
atenciOn urgente del Gobierno la informaciOn adicional recibida en relaciOn con las amenazas
que habrIa recibido Pablo Xavier OrtIz, segün la cual, el 18 de febrero de 2004 habrIa recibido
una llamada telefOnica anOnima en la que el individuo le habrIa gritado “hijo de puta, vos que
andais con los indios del Puyo”. El 12 de febrero, Pablo Xavier OrtIz habrIa recibido otra
llamada anOnima en un hotel de la localidad de Puyo donde estarla trabajando, en la cual el autor
le habrIa dicho “vas a ver, hijo de puta, qué te hacemos.” Se informa ademas que el 10 de marzo
un hombre habrIa llamado a la casa de Pablo Xavier OrtIz y, al enterarse de que no estaba, habrIa
pedido otros nümeros de teléfono donde se le pudiera localizar diciendo que tenla una reuniOn
con el Ministro de Relaciones Exteriores. Se teme que estas presuntas amenazas de muerte estén
relacionadas con el trabajo llevado a cabo por Pablo Xavier OrtIz y el Instituto Amazango a
favor de la comunidad indIgena Sarayaku en su oposiciOn a la extracciOn de petrOleo en su
terntorio.
240. El 17 de marzo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho ala libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, la Relatora Especial sobre ejecuciones
extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias y el Relator Especial sobre la tortura, enviO un
llamamiento urgente en relaciOn con Patricio Ordóflez Maico, de 27 aflos de edad, miembro de
la FundaciOn Amigos por la Vida, una organizaciOn no gubernamental que trabaja para los
derechos de las personas lesbianas, gays, bisexuales y transexuales. Patricio OrdOflez Maico
habrIa sido detenido dos veces en mayo yjunio de 2001 por agentes de la policla nacional en
Quito. Durante su primera detenciOn habrIa sido sometido a abusos sexuales por un agente que le
habrIa amenazado de muerte en caso de que denunciara los hechos. Sin embargo, enjunio de
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2001, habrIa presentado una denuncia ante la Policla Nacional. En su carta de fecha 2 de
septiembre de 2002, ci Relator Especial sobre la cuestiôn de la tortura notifico al Gobierno que
habla recibido informacion sobre estas alegaciones (E/CN.4/2003/68/Add.1, parr. 430). Desde
que interpuso su primera denuncia, Patricio Ordoflez Maico habrIa recibido varias amenazas de
muerte. El 25 de febrero de 2002, uno de los agentes denunciados se habrIa presentado en un
restaurante donde se encontraba con unos amigos y lo habrIa amenazado de muerte si no retiraba
la denuncia. Tras este incidente, Patricio Ordoflez Maico habrIa presentado otra denuncia y se
habrIa instalado en otra ciudad por temor a su seguridad. El pasado 12 de marzo de 2004, un
intruso se habrIa introducido en las instalaciones de la Fundacion Amigos por la Vida, habrIa
atacado a Patricio Ordoflez Maico y lo habrIa amenazado de muerte. Patricio Ordoflez Maico
habrIa conseguido escapar pero habrIa resuitado herido en ci pecho y la espaida. El intruso no
habrIa robado nada en las instalaciones, y todo indicarla que su ünica intenciôn era de atacar a
Patricio Ordoflez Maico. Más tarde, éste habrIa presentado una denuncia ante la Policla Judicial
de Guayaquii. El incidente dci 12 de marzo de 2004 habrIa ocurrido una semana despues de que
Patricio Ordoflez Maico expuso su caso durante una reunion organizada en Quito por la
FederaciOn Internacional de Derechos Humanos. Segün la informaciOn recibida, Patricio
OrdOflez Maico todavIa no habrIa sido notificado de los resuitados de las investigaciones abiertas
a raIz de sus repetidas denuncias ni habrIa sido informado sobre las medidas tomadas para ilevar
los agentes denunciados ante lajusticia.
241. El 19 de abril de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con ci Relator Especial sobre la
situaciOn de los derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentaics de los indIgenas, enviO un
ilamamiento urgente sobre la situaciOn de los miembros de la organizaciOn Fundación
Pachamama, una organizaciOn dedicada a la protecciOn de los derechos humanos, las
tradiciones cuituraics y ci territorio de la comunidad Sarayaku, ubicada en la seiva amazOnica
ecuatoriana en la provincia de Pastaza. En este contexto se seflala que la comunidad de Sarayaku,
tanto como las organizaciones que la apoyan como es ci caso de la FundaciOn Pachamama,
habrIan sido objetos de una campafla de intimidaciOn aparentemente a consecuencia de su
oposiciOn a la concesiOn otorgada a las empresas petroicras para los trabajos de perforaciOn en su
territorio. Se seflala igualmente que la situaciOn de la FundaciOn Pachamama ya fue objeto de un
ilamamiento urgente enviado ci 27 de febrero de 2004 por ci Relator Especial sobre la situaciOn
de los derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentaics de los indIgenas y la Representante
Especial. La situaciOn de otras organizaciones e individuos que tambien apoyan a la comunidad
indIgena de Sarayaku, como es ci caso de la AsociaciOn Sarayaku, tambien fue objeto de dos
ilamamientos urgentes enviados ci 5 y ci 27 de marzo por ci Relator Especial sobre la situaciOn
de los derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentaics de los indIgenas, ci Relator Especial
sobre ci derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y la Representante Especial. Segün la
informaciOn adicional recibida, ci 6 de abril de 2004, ci personal de la FundaciOn Pachamama
habrIa recibido una ilamada telefOnica en la cual ci autor habrIa advertido de la colocaciOn de
una bomba en la oficina de la organizaciOn. El autor de la ilamada habrIa dicho “ya ics
advertimos y no nos hicieron caso; ahora ics dejamos un regalito en ci edificio”. Sc informa que
ci personal habrIa evacuado ci edificio y ilamado a la policla quien habrIa registrado ci edificio.
Unas horas despues y segün se informa, aiguien habrIa dejado una caja delante de la puerta de la
FundaciOn, la cual habrIa sido inspeccionada por la policla quien habrIa comprobado que estaba
vacla. Sc informa que la FundaciOn habrIa denunciado tanto este incidente como las amenazas de
muerte que habrIan recibido en febrero a la Fiscaila General pero que, hasta la fecha, no se
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habrIa tenido noticia de que la Fiscalla General haya abierto una investigaciOn en relaciOn con
los hechos.
242. El 26 de abril de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y la Relatora Especial sobre ejecuciones
extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias, enviO un llamamiento urgente sobre la situaciOn de los
miembros de la Fundación Amigos por Ia Vida, y en particular de unos de los miembros de la
organizaciOn, Patricio Ordoflez Maico. Segün la informaciOn recibida, Patricio OrdOflez Maico
habrIa sido detenido en mayo yjunio de 2001 por agentes de la Policla Nacional en Quito.
Durante su primera detenciOn habrIa sido sometido a abusos sexuales por un agente que le habrIa
amenazado de muerte en caso de que denunciara los hechos. Sin embargo, enjunio de 2001
habrIa presentado una denuncia ante la Policla Nacional. Desde que interpuso su primera
denuncia, Patricio OrdOflez Maico habrIa recibido varias amenazas de muerte y el 12 de marzo
de 2004 habrIa sufrido un atento contra su vida. Su caso ya fue objeto de una llamamiento
urgente enviado conjuntamente el 17 de marzo de 2004 por la Representante Especial, el Relator
Especial sobre la tortura, el Relator Especial sobre el derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de
expresiOn y la Relatora Especial sobre ejecuciones extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias, y de un
llamamiento por el Relator Especial sobre la tortura el 2 de septiembre de 2002. Segün la
informaciOn adicional recibida, clii de abril de 2004 el personal de la FundaciOn Amigos por la
Vida habrIa recibido una llamada telefOnica anOnima cuya autor habrIa dicho “se va a colocar
una bomba en la FundaciOn para que vuelen con todo, ya que son unos maricones hijos de puta.”
El mismo dIa, segün se informa, un individuo en civil que se habrIa identificado como miembro
de la policla nacional de Ecuador habrIa acudido a la FundaciOn Amigos por la Vida. HabrIa
dicho que venla para llevar a Patricio OrdOflez Maico a la comisarla para que hiciera una
declaraciOn. Cuando el personal de la FundaciOn le pidiO que mostrara su identificaciOn, el
individuo se habrIa marchado y segün se informa, habrIa sido visto entrando en un automOvil
dorado con cristales tintados y sin placa de matrIcula.
243. El 27 de abril de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, enviO un llamamiento urgente en relaciOn con
José Serrano Salgado, miembro de la organizaciOn no gubernamental Centro de Derechos
EconOmicos y Sociales (CDES), quien habrIa sido amenazado de muerte el 25 de abril de 2004.
Segün la informaciOn recibida, José Serrano Salgado viajaba en su coche en la VIa Norte-Sur, en
Quito, provincia de Pinchincha, cuando tres individuos no identificados que viajaban en un
automOvil sin placa de matrIcula le habrian obligado a pararse. Los informes indican que uno de
los individuos llevaba un revOlver. Cuando José Serrano Salgado saliO del automOvil, el
individuo armado le habria amenazado de muerte e insultado varias veces. Segün la informaciOn
recibida, los tres individuos le habrIan pedido que les entregara su mOvil y al ver que lo habia
dejado en su casa, habrian seguido amenazandole de muerte. Antes de marcharse, los tres
agresores se habr lan llevado las llaves del automOvil de José Serrano Salgado. Se teme que estas
presuntas amenazas contra José Serrano Salgado estén relacionadas con sus actividades en la
comunidad indigena de Sarayaku y su oposiciOn a la concesiOn otorgada a las empresas
petroleras. Se informa que el José Serrano Salgado habria denunciado la agresiOn ante la policia
el 25 de abril de 2004.
244. El 7 de mayo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, enviO un llamamiento urgente en relaciOn con
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José Soils Sohs, periodista del diario El Universo en Guayaquii. Segün la informacion recibida,
ci 26 de abril de 2004, José Soils Soils habria recibido dos iiamadas teiefonicas de un individuo
no identificado quien habrla dicho “j,Ei Licenciado Soils? Digaic ai Licenciado Soils que no se
meta con nosotros que ya vamos a sahr”. Dos semanas antes, cuando José Soils Soils se
encontraba cerca de su casa, cuatro desconocidos que viajaban en un vehicuio bianco sin piacas
de matricuia ie habrian gritado “Cuidate”. José Soils Soils habrla presentado una denuncia ante
ia Fiscaha Generai por ios hechos ocurridos. Las amenazas contra José Soils Soils estarlan
reiacionadas con sus informes sobre ias presuntas ejecuciones extrajudiciaies de personas
detenidas después de un robo en una farmacia en Guayaquii y sobre ia presunta desaparicion de
Johnny Ehas Gômez Baida, César Augusto Mata Vaienzueia y Edwin Danici Vivar Paima. Estas
tres personas habrian sido detenidas por ia pohcia ci 19 de noviembre de 2003 en reiacion con ci
robo. Habrian teiefoneado a sus famihares poco después de ser detenidas y ics habrian dicho que
estaban bajo custodia en ci cuartei de ia Pohcia Judiciai de Guayaquii. Segün ia Fiscaha Generai
de Guayaquii, estas tres personas habrlan sido hberadas. Segün ia pohcia, no habrian sido
trasiadadas a un centro de detencion y Jhonny Ehas Gômez Baida no habria sido arrestado.
245. Ei 26 de octubre de 2004, ia Representante Especiai, junto con ci Reiator Especiai sobre
ci derecho a ia hbertad de opinion y de expresiOn y ci Reiator Especiai sobre ia situaciOn de ios
derechos humanos y ias hbertades fundamentaics de ios indigenas, enviO un iiamamiento urgente
en reiaciOn con Leonidas Iza, Presidente de ia ConfederaciOn de Nacionahdades Indigenas en
Ecuador (CONAJE). Segün ia informaciOn recibida, ci 13 de octubre de 2004 a ias 9.45 de ia
maflana, Leonidas Iza habria recibido una amenaza de muerte anOnima en su teiéfono ceiuiar. Sc
aiega que ci reahzador de ia iiamada habrla amenazado de muerte a Leonidas Iza y a toda su
famiha. Sc informa también que ci 14 de octubre de 2004, en horas de ia madrugada, se habria
producido un robo en ias oficinas de ia sede de CONAJE en Quito en ci cuai varios ordenadores
conteniendo informaciOn importante para ci movimiento indigena habrlan sido robados. Dc
acuerdo con ias informaciones recibidas, ci resguardo pohciai de ia sede no estaba presente ese
dia. Sc teme que ias amenazas de muerte en contra de Leonidas Iza y su famiha puedan estar
reiacionadas con su trabajo como defensor de ios derechos de ias pobiaciones indigenas y a sus
manifestaciones pübhcas contra ias pohticas dci gobierno. Ademas se teme que ci aiianamiento
de ia sede de CONAJE pueda constituir un ciaro intento de impedir ias actividades de ia
organizaciOn.
Observaciones
246. The Speciai Representative regrets that at the time of the finahzation of this report, the
Government had not rephed to her communications. She reiterates her serious concerns at the
safety of human rights defenders canying out their iegitimate work in Ecuador. She refers to her
main report (E/CN.4/2005/101) for a detaiied anaiysis of the trends in the situation of human
rights defenders in Ecuador.
Egypt
Communications sent
247. On 19 January 2004, the Speciai Representative sent an urgent appeai regarding the
aiieged deiay in approving a grant awarded to The Egyptian Organization for iluman Rights
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(EOIIR). According to the information received, on 1 September 2003, the EOHR was awarded
a grant of US$40, 000 from the National Endowment for Democracy in the United States of
America to fund a one-year project of human rights monitoring in the country and produce an
annual report. The project was reportedly due to begin on 1 October 2003, however the
organization has allegedly not received approval for this grant despite having applied to the
Ministry of Social Affairs in Masr Elkadima on 18 September 2003, as required under article 17
of NGO Law 84/2002. This law has already been the subject of an urgent action by the Special
Representative on 18 June 2003. Concern has been expressed that the alleged delay in approving
this grant may be aimed at preventing the EOHR from carrying out its work in defence of human
rights.
248. On 16 July 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning the El Nadim Centre for the Psychological
Rehabilitation of Victims of Violence. It was founded in 1993 by a collective of doctors and
psychiatrists and operates as a clinic registered with the Doctor's Syndicate. It provides treatment
and rehabilitative services to victims of torture by police and security forces, as well as victims
of domestic violence. It also assists victims by bringing their cases to the attention of relevant
authorities and by pursuing criminal charges against the perpetrators. According to the
allegations received, on 11 July 2004, agents of the Ministry of Health entered the Cairo offices
of El Nadim Centre and confiscated documents, including patients' files and publications
produced by the Centre, and took photographs of the premises. It is alleged that they had an
aggressive and threatening behaviour. Later, the agents of the Ministry of Health filed a
complaint with the Ministry of Health accusing the El Nadim Centre of using its premises as a
clinic for prohibited purposes. This complaint could give the Ministry grounds to order the
closure of the Centre.
Communications received
249. By letter dated 3 March 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by the
Special Representative on 19 January 2004 in connection with the alleged delay in approving a
grant awarded to The Egyptian Organization for iluman Rights (EOIIR). The Government
confirmed that the case had been examined by the Ministry of Social Affairs at the beginning of
2004, and informed the Special Representative that all the necessary administrative measures to
approve the EOHR's grant had been taken.
250. By letter dated 20 September 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by
the Special Representative on 16 July 2004 concerning allegations regarding the El Nadim
Centre for the Psychological Rehabilitation of Victims of Violence. According to information
received from the Prosecutor's Office, the accused denied the allegations made against them and
stated that the inspection on 11 July 2004 was carried out pursuant to article 11 of the Regulation
of Medical Institutions Act No. 51 of 1981. They also declared that during the inspection, several
violations were discovered, in particular the existence of unacceptable hygiene standards,
unregistered doctors working at the centre, the lack of a functioning technical director and the
unauthorized publication of books, thereby infringing upon article 10 of the aforementioned act.
The Government confirmed that the Ministry of Health had been officially informed of these
breaches in the law. It stated that the centre had been given a month to take remedial action and
had been notified that failure to comply with the required standards would lead to the withdrawal
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of its licence (article 13, para. 5). Tn its response, the Government reported that the centre was re-
inspected on 24 August 2004, and closed down. On 31 August 2004, it was re-inspected once
more and found to have remedied most of the violations. The investigation is ongoing.
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
251. By letter dated 25 May 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent jointly
with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion
and expression and the Special Rapporteur on the question of torture on 12 August 2003
concerning Ashraflbrahim, with reference to its previous reply dated 30 September 2003. The
Government informed that, on 6 March 2004, Mr. Ibrahim had been acquitted by the ruling of
the court.
Observations
252. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its response to both
communications sent. In particular, she welcomes the steps taken for the approval of the grant.
Similarly, in light of the conclusions of the 31 August 2004 re-investigation, she invites the
Government to find a suitable solution to the recent closure of the El Nadim Centre. Finally, the
Special Representative would like to thank the Government for the interest it has shown in
considering her request for an invitation to conduct an official visit and hopes her request will
receive a favourable answer shortly.
Ethiopia
Communications sent
253. On 13 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning alleged actions by the Government to interfere with the functioning of the
Ethiopian Free Journalists Association (EFJA), a private association defending the rights of
journalists working in the country, for whom a letter of allegation was sent on behalf of the
Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and
expression on 28 November 2003. According to more recent information received, on 4 January
2004, the Ministry of Justice convened a meeting of the members of the Association, which, due
to the boycott of the members, was re-scheduled for 18 January. That day, and reportedly despite
the sparse attendance, the Ministry announced the election of a new executive committee of the
EFJA. Fears have been expressed that this action may be politically motivated, as the
Association had, over the months preceding this meeting, been critical about a proposed new
press law, which seemed to contain provisions that would in effect reinforce control over the
press and journalists, and in particular introduce criminal sanctions for the failure of the press to
“investigate the correctness of the news that it publishes” (article 19), require publications and
distributors to be registered and licensed (arts. 7 and 9), give the Government power to withhold
or withdraw registration and licences subject only to post-denial or post-revocation of judicial
review, and allow the Minister for Information to prohibit the local press from reprinting news
published outside the country if it i deemed that the report “endangers peace and security”,
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“spreads false accusations and defamation against public bodies and officials” and “harms and
weakens” patriotism.
254. On 26 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning the situation of Yohannes Solomon, a member and employee of the Ethiopia
Human Rights Council (EHRCO) and a member of the Central Council of the Ethiopian
Teachers Association. According to the information received, on 6 and 8 March 2004, two plain
clothes policemen reportedly came to the home of Yohannes Solomon in Addis Ababa and stated
that they had come to arrest him. Yohannes Solomon was reportedly not there at the time, having
left the country on the 6 March to attend events related to the United Nations Commission on
Human Rights in Geneva. His sister reportedly asked him why they wanted to arrest him. They
allegedly stated that they wanted to interrogate him and further stated that he should stop
working for EHRCO. According to the information received, Yohannes Solomon had reportedly
previously been the victim of harassment by members of the security forces on 25 May and 10
September 2001. Concern has been expressed that Yohannes Solomon is being targeted for his
human rights activities and in particular his advocacy work on behalf of EHRCO and for the
Central Council of the Ethiopian Teachers Association on education and the rights of teachers.
255. On 3 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, sent an urgent appeal regarding the
situation of Diribi Demissie, Gemechu Feyera and Sentayehu Workneh, president, vice-
president and treasurer of the Macha Tulema Association (MTA), an officially registered Oromo
community welfare organization, and 13 other members of the Oromo. According to the
information received, the MTA has been raising funds to provide food and shelter for 300 Oromo
students who were suspended or expelled from Addis Ababa University following their arrest on
21 January 2004 during a demonstration to demand the release of eight other students. These
students had allegedly been arrested after protesting against the Government's decision to
transfer the Oromia regional capital from Addis Ababa to Adama. According to the information
received on 18 May 2004, Diribi Demissie, Gemechu Feyera and 13 other members of the
Oromo were reportedly arrested in Addis Ababa. Sentayehu Workneh was reportedly arrested on
20 May and was allegedly beaten during his arrest. They were reportedly initially held
incommunicado at the Central Investigation Department Maikelawi. Six of the students have
allegedly been provisionally released while the three MTA officials and the seven other Oromo
have reportedly been accused of involvement in a bombing incident at Addis Ababa University
on 29 April 2004 and of having links to the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF). It is reported that
they are due to appear in court on 3 June 2004. Concern has been expressed that Diribi Demissie,
Gemechu Feyera and Sentayehu Workneh may have been targeted for their human rights work
and in particular their work on behalf of the Oromo.
Communications received
256. By letter dated 7 May 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 13
February 2004. The Government informed that for three consecutive years, the Ethiopian Free
Journalists Association (EFJA) had failed to present reports on its activities and performance
and audits adopted by its general assembly. The Ministry of Justice had given several notices to
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the EFJA in this regard. When the EFJA did not respond to these notices, the Ministry was
forced to take legal measures and decided to suspend the organization until it fhlfilled its
obligations. The Government stated that however, taking into account the importance of the
resumption of its function, the Ministry decided to discuss the problems with members of the
EFJA. To this end, the general assembly of the organization was called for a meeting within one
month of the suspension of the EFJA. The first meeting was adjourned, as most of the members
of the general assembly were not present. According to the Government, the second meeting
decided, after dealing extensively with the issues, to change the EFJA leadership, whose term of
office was long overdue (four years). A new Executive Committee has hence been established
from among the members of the general assembly who were present at the meeting. The
Government informed that this procedure was in accordance with the statutes of the EFJA. It
stated that this election was entirely undertaken by EFJA members present at the meeting and
that it is not related to the press law as alleged.
257. By letter dated 29 July 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by the
Special Representative on 3 June 2004 concerning the situation of Diribi Demissie, Gemechu
Feyera and Sentayehu Workneh, president, vice-president and treasurer of the Macha Tulema
Association (MTA), and 13 other members of the Oromo. According to the Government, Macha
Tulem is an affiliate of the Oromo Liberation Front, and its work with the welfare association for
Oromo people a simple guise for its violent and illegal activities. The Government declared that
the police had uncovered factual evidence on their alleged involvement. The Government
therefore emphasized that the legal proceedings against the officials of the Macha Tulema
Association and the 13 other individuals were in complete conformity with the law. The
aforementioned persons were arrested in connection with the terrorist attack on Addis Ababa
University on 29 April 2004. They are currently standing trial and have been remanded in
custody until the Court presents its findings.
Observations
258. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its two responses. With respect to
the case of the EFJA, she must note that the Government's explanation has not dispelled her
concern with respect to government interferences into the association's operations. The Special
Representative acknowledges that EFJA may have failed to present its financial statements and
audit reports. She notes, however, that the Government does not contend that EFJA failed to
keep its financial records properly or was engaged in fraud. There was thus no compelling public
interest requiring the Government to sanction the organization. As a general principle, the
Special Representative is of the opinion that, while correct and transparent book keeping by
NGOs is very important, this is not primarily to protect government interest. NGOs engaged in
the defence of human rights should keep transparent financial records and subject themselves to
audits in order to attract vital contributions from funders. The sanction for failing to do so should
be - and is - that potential fhnders refuse to support the NGO. Governments, on the other hand,
should only intervene if there are allegations that shortcomings in the keeping of financial
records amount to fraud, misappropriation or other criminal activities.
France
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Communications envoyées
259. Le 26 mai 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special sur
la vente d'enfants, la prostitution d'enfants et la pornographic impliquant des enfants a envoyc
une lettre d'allegation concernant la situation du Dr Catherine Bonnet, psychiatre et defenseur
des droits des enfants. Selon les informations reçues, depuis 1996 le Dr Bonnet aurait fait l'objet
de multiples procedures disciplinaires de la part du Conseil de l'Ordre des medecins et de mises
en examen repetees pour denonciations calomnieuses, suite a des signalements et diagnostics
d'abus sexuels sur mineurs. Selon les informations reçues, le Dr Bonnet, aurait examine six
enfants de familles differentes et aurait redige des certificats medicaux attestant des abus sexuels
commis par l'un des parents. Le 5 decembre 1998, les parents concernes par ces signalements
auraient porte plainte contre le Dr Bonnet auprés du conseil regional de l'Ordre des medecins
d'Ile-de-France pour avoir redige des certificats de complaisance et pour denonciations
calomnieuses lors de ses diagnostics, pourtant confirmes par d'autres experts medicaux. Le
conseil regional de l'Ordre des medecins d'Ile-de-France aurait condamne le Dr Bonnet a trois
fois trois ans d'interdiction de pratiquer la medecine pour avoir redige de faux certificats et pour
manquement ala deontologie. En aoüt 1999, l'instance nationale du Conseil de l'ordre saisie en
appel aurait revise et annule la condamnation pour signalement au nom de l'article 226-14,
requalifie les motivations des autres condamnations et reduit la sanction a une periode de 15
jours d'interdiction d'exercer sa profession assortie de deux avertissements disciplinaires
presumement en depit de diagnostics confirmant son expertise. Enjuillet 2001, le Conseil d'Etat
aurait confirme cette decision. D'autres plaintes auraient continue a être deposees auprés des
instances disciplinaires, a la suite desquelles le conseil regional de l'Ordre des medecins aurait a
nouveau condamne le Dr Bonnet. Ces decisions auraient a nouveau etc revisees ou annulees par
le Conseil national de l'Ordre des medecins. Parallélement aux procedures disciplinaires, le Dr
Bonnet aurait fait l'objet de plusieurs plaintes au penal dont l'une serait toujours en cours. En
particulier, elle aurait etc misc en examen une premiere fois enjuin 2002 pour denonciation
calomnieuse; un non-lieu aurait etc prononce le 19 octobre 2002. Le 9 octobre 2002, le
Dr Bonnet aurait etc misc en examen une seconde fois pour un autre signalement par le tribunal
de grande instance de Paris pour denonciation calomnieuse supposement sur la base de ses
condamnations en premi Cre instance disciplinaire. L'instruction se serait terminee le 6 mars
2003, annonçant la transmission du dossier au parquet dans un delai de 20 jours. Aucune
decision n'aurait etc rendue depuis lors. En consequence des multiples poursuites disciplinaires
etjudiciaires a son encontre et d'articles publics par les medias, le Dr Bonnet aurait perdu sa
clientele privee, puis son travail salarie et s'avCrerait être au chomage. D'autres praticiens
medicaux auraient egalement etc soumis a des sanctions disciplinaires lors de circonstances
semblables, mais n'auraient pas voulu en divulguer les details auprCs des mecanismes onusiens
des droits de l'homme par crainte de subir les mémes traitements que le Dr Bonnet. Par ailleurs,
selon les information reçues, le 18 decembre 2003, suite notamment a un mouvement de
protestation de la part de nombreux medecins quant aux dispositions de la loi reglementant les
signalements et diagnostics d'abus sexuels, le Parlement aurait vote un amendement interdisant
les poursuites disciplinaires. Des craintes ont etc exprimees que les multiples poursuites
disciplinaires etjudiciaires contre le Dr Bonnet ne visent a faire obstacle a ses activites en la
faveur de la defense des droits des enfants.
260. Le 30 juillet 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special
sur la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, a envoyc un appel
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urgent concernant Mme Keita Matindie, membre du parti d'opposition le Rassembiement des
Repubhcains (RDR), tresoriere de la section Jeunesse et membre active de la section Femmes du
parti et defenseur des droits de i'homme dont la demande d'asiie aurait etc rejetee. Mme Keita
Matindie faisant i'objet d'une procedure d'expuision du territoire français devrait être renvoyce
en Côte d'Ivoire de façon imminente. Scion ies informations reçues, son pére, Seydou Keyta
aurait etc tue par des CRS iors des vioiences de 2000 et aurait fait partie des victimes du charnier
de Yopugon. Par aiiiieurs, cue aurait participe a ia marche de protestation organisee par ies partis
d'opposition ie 25 mars 2004 et aurait etc temoin de serieuses vioiations des droits de i'homme
dont des executions sommaires perpetrees par ies forces de securites du pays. Eiie aurait a cette
occasion etc battue par ies CRS avec d'autres miiitants du RDR. Au cours de ces manifestations,
son epoux Paui Kiburugupu et sa mere auraient etc arretes et seraient depuis portes disparus. En
avrii 2004, Mme Keyta Matindie aurait temoigne sur ies vioiations commises par ies forces de
i'ordre, et dont cue aurait etc temoin iors des evenements des 25 et 26 mars 2004 a Abidjan,
auprCs de ia Commission d'enquête internationaie etabiie par ie Haut-Commissariat aux droits de
i'homme. Suite a son temoignage, cue aurait fait i'objet de nouveaux harcCiements et,
notamment, cue aurait reçu des menaces de mort de ia part de membres du GPP (Groupement
patriotique pour ia paix), proche de ia presidence, iui disant qu'eiie etait etrangere, membre du
RDR et qu'ayant assiste aux vioiences cue meritait d'être battue et tuce. Durant piusieurs mois,
cue aurait etc obhgee de fuir son domiciie en raison du harcCiement dont cue aurait fait i'objet.
Scion ies informations reçues, ie 20 juilliet 2004, cue serait arrivee a i'aeroport de Roissy —
Charies-de-Gauiie en France en possession d'un visa Schengen vaiide et aurait soiiicite son
admission au titre de i'asiie a ia frontiere. Sa demande aurait etc refusee par ie chef du bureau
d'asiie pohtique a ia frontiere en raison du caractCre << manifestement infonde >> de sa demande.
Eiie n'aurait pas etc autorisee a rentrer sur ie territoire pour que sa demande soit examinee sur ie
fond. Le motif de ia decision reposerait sur ie fait que << ies deciarations de i'interessee seraient
imprecises et iacunaires >> et qu'eiie n'apporterait pas d'eiements probants sur ies fait mentionnes
ci-dessus. Neanmoins, scion ies informations reçues, Mme Matindie aurait de serieuses
difficuites a s'exprimer en français et n'aurait pas etc assistee d'un interprCte iors de son premier
entretien. Mme Keita se trouverait actueiiement en zone d'attente a Roissy et son expuision
serait prevue pour demain. Dc sericuses craintes ont etc exprimees que son retour en Côte
d'Ivoire ne mette sa vie et son integrite physique en danger.
Communications reçues
261. Le 16 aoüt 2004, ic Gouvernement a repondu a ia communication envoyce ic 30 juiiiiet
2004 par ia Representante speciaie sur ia situation de Mme Keita Matindie, qui, au moment de
i'appei urgent, se trouvait en attente de reconduite en Côte d'Ivoire. Scion ic Gouvernement, ics
autorites auraient conduit une enquête et i'interessee aurait etc entendue a piusicurs reprises.
Cette enquête aurait conduit au rejet de sa demande d'asiie. En effet, ii serait apparu que ic
passeport presente par cette personne etait un passeport voic et que ia personne qui se presentait
comme Mme Keita Matindie n'etait pas ia personne qui avait temoigne devant ia Commission
d'enquête internationaic etabiie par ic Haut-Commissariat aux droits de i'homme.
262. Le 10 novembre 2004, ic Gouvernement a repondu a ia communication envoyce ic
26 mai 2004 par ia Representante speciaie sur ia situation du Dr Catherine Bonnet. Le
Gouvernement a indique que, dans i'exercice de son metier, ic Dr Bonnet a produit des
certificats medicaux attestant de sevices a enfants, mais ces certificats auraient depasse, dans
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certains cas, le simple constat des sévices et auraient notamment été remis non aux autorités
compétentes mais aux conjoints des personnes que le Dr Bonnet soupconnait d'abus sexuels. Des
plaintes auraient été déposées contre elle. Le Conseil de l'Ordre des médecins, qui serait une
juridiction, aurait du examiner celles-ci au regard des régles de déontologie qui s'imposent aux
médecins.
263. Le Gouvernement a indiqué que le régime disciplinaire des médecins doit permettre de
concilier liberté d'exercice et respect des régles de déontologie. A cette fin, l'article 76 du Code
de déontologie médicale stipule que le médecin ne doit faire état, dans les certificats médicaux
qu'il délivre a ses clients, que des constatations médicales qu'il est en mesure de faire. Par
ailleurs, aux termes de l'article 44 du Code de déontologie lorsqu'un médecin discerne qu'un
mineur de quinze ans est victime de sévices ou de privations il doit alerter les autorités
judiciaires, médicales et administratives. Le Gouvernement reléve enfin que le législateur
français, conscient de la difficulté des professionnels de la petite enfance, a promulgué le
2 janvier 2004 une loi relative a l'accueil et a la protection de la petite enfance. Cette loi modifie
l'article 226-14 du Code penal en prévoyant que le signalement aux autorités compétentes ne
peut faire l'objet de sanctions disciplinaires.
264. Le Gouvernement a observe que les conseils régionaux exercent, au scm de l'Ordre des
médecins, la competence disciplinaire de premiere instance. La section disciplinaire du Conseil
national de l'Ordre des médecins est compétente pour connaitre des appels. Ses decisions
peuvent enfin faire l'objet d'un recours devant le Conseil d'Etat, qui est la plus haute juridiction
administrative.
265. Dans le cas du Dr Bonnet, le conseil regional de l'Ordre des médecins de la region Ile-de-
France, statuant sur des plaintes transmises par le conseil départemental de la Ville-de-Paris, a
inflige plusieurs sanctions au Dr Bonnet. En appel, la section disciplinaire du Conseil national a
réformé trois d'entre elles et annulé les trois autres. Dans trois cas oü le Dr Bonnet avait fait des
signalements au Procureur de la République, le Conseil national a annulé les sanctions, déclarant
qu'elle n'avait pas manqué a son devoir de prudence et circonspection. Dans trois autres cas oü
le Dr Bonnet avait remis des certificats, attestant des abus sexuels commis par un des parents, a
l'autre parent, dont elle n'ignorait pas qu'il/elle se trouvait en conflit avec le premier, le Conseil
national a confirmé qu'elle avait manqué a ses devoirs de prudence. Malgré tout, le Conseil
national a réformé a deux reprises les lourdes peines d'interdiction d'exercer la médecine en ne
prononcant qu'un simple blame. Dans le troisiCme cas, il a ramené la durée de l'interdiction
d'exercer la médecine de 3 ans a 15 jours.
Observations
266. The Special Representative thanks the Government for prompt and detailed replies to the
communications sent. In the case of Ms. Keita, she commends the Government for having
conducted a prompt investigation into the case and having suspended the expulsion of the
individual in question in order to examine her case. She considers that the Government's
explanations with regard to the case of Ms. Matindie solve the concerns raised in the
communication.
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267. With regard to the ease of Dr. Bonnet, the Special Representative welcomes the
legislation recently enacted by the French Parliament to enhance the protection of physicians
who denounce suspected cases of child abuse to the competent prosecutorial and judicial
authorities against legal action by parents of the child and other persons affected. The Special
Representative remains, however, preoccupied that this legislation and the way it is implemented
may not go far enough in effectively shielding physicians against abusive complaints. In
particular, the Special Representative remains concerned about the fairness of proceedings before
the disciplinary bodies of the Ordre des Medecins. She believes that physicians play a vital role
in the protection of children against the most serious violations of their rights, and that they have
to be in turn effectively protected in this role as human rights defenders.
Guatemala
Comunicaciones enviadas
268. El 20 de enero de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
promociôn y protecciôn del derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn, el Relator Especial
sobre la independencia de magistrados y abogados y el Relator Especial sobre la yenta de niflos,
la prostituciOn infantil y la utilizaciOn de niflos en la pornografla, enviO un llamamiento urgente
con relaciOn al caso pendiente de Bruce ilarris, director ejecutivo de los programas para
America Latina de Casa Alianza y un defensor de los derechos de los menores de edad, que será
analizado por un tribunal guatemalteco el 22 de enero prOximo. Segün la informaciOn recibida,
Bruce Harris the acusado de difamaciOn por Susana de Umafla, siguiendo una conferencia de
prensa celebrada en septiembre de 1997 en la cual la Oficina del Procurador General y Casa
Alianza expusieron el trafico ilegal de niflos en Guatemala. Durante la conferencia, Bruce Harris
habrIa declarado que Susana de Umafla habrIa utilizado “influencia indebida” con las autoridades
gubermentales para facilitar las adopciones internacionales. En febrero de 1999, la Corte
Constitucional habrIa dictado que, por no ser miembro de los medios de comunicaciOn, Bruce
Harris no tenla derecho a la libertad de expresiOn— la defensa en contra de la difamaciOn. D c esta
manera, Bruce Harris enfrenta la posibilidad de una condena criminal y cinco aflos de
encarcelamiento.
269. El 5 de febrero de 2004, la Representante Especial enviO un llamamiento urgente sobre la
situaciOn de Orlando JoaquIn Blanco Lapola, director del Centro Internacional de
Investigaciones en Derechos Humanos (CIIDH). Segün las informaciones recibidas, el 16 y el 30
de enero 2004, y el 2 de febrero, Orlando JoaquIn Blanco Lapola habrIa recibido amenazas
telefOnicas anOnimas insultandole y amenazandole de muerte. Se presume que las amenazas
guardarlan relaciOn con sus actividades en favor de los derechos humanos, particularmente su
participaciOn en la elaboraciOn del acuerdo para el establecimiento de la ComisiOn para la
InvestigaciOn de Cuerpos Ilegales y Aparatos Clandestinos de Seguridad (CICIACS).
270. El 5 de marzo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
promociOn y la protecciOn del derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, enviO un
llamamiento urgente sobre la situaciOn de Elolda MejIa Samoya, presidente y representante
legal de la AsociaciOn Amigos del Lago Izabal, una organizaciOn que se opone a la reactivaciOn
de las actividades mineras en el departamento de Izabal. Segün la informaciOn recibida, el 18 de
febrero, Elolda MejIa Samayoa habrIa sido advertida de que si no dejaba de oponerse a las
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actividades minerlas, se arriesgaba a que la mataran. HabrIan dicho ademas a su casero que
quemarlan la casa en la que vive Elolda MejIa Samayoa si ésta continuaba con sus actividades.
El 21 de febrero, segün la informacion, la Asociaciôn Amigos del Lago Izabal habrIan
convocado una reunion en la localidad de Puerto Barrios para informar a los habitantes de la
zona sobre las repercusiones ecolOgicas de las actividades mineras, durante la cual un grupo de
individuos desconocidos se la habrIan interrumpido y habrIan amenazado a Elolda MejIa
Samayoa, diciendo “que cayera su cabeza”. Se informa ademas que estas amenazas vienen
precedidas por el presunto asesinato de Enrique Alcantara, trabajador del Consejo Nacional de
Areas Protegidas (CONAP) y activista medioambiental quien habrIa luchado contra el trafico
ilegal de fauna silvestre. Segün la informaciOn, el 10 de febrero de 2004, alas 15.00 horas,
Enrique Alcantara habrIa sido asesinado de impactos de bala por desconocidos en la ciudad de
Puerto Barrios. Se teme que estas presuntas amenazas de muerte contra Elolda MejIa Samayoa y
el presunto asesinato de Enrique Alcantara estén relacionados con sus actividades de defensa del
medio ambiente a favor de los habitantes del departamento de Izabal.
271. El 19 de marzo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
promociOn y la protecciOn del derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y el Relator
Especial sobre la tortura, enviO un llamamiento urgente en relaciOn con Victoriano Zacarlas
Mindez, secretario ejecutivo de la Central General de Trabajadores de Guatemala (CGTG) y
secretario general del Sindicato de Pilotos Automovilistas y Similares de Guatemala, tal como
Wilson Carreto y Miguel Angel Ochoa, directivos de la UniOn de Pilotos de Transporte Pesado
por Carretera, quienes habrIan sido detenidos el 25 de febrero de 2004, supuestamente de manera
violenta, por las fuerzas estatales de seguridad en la ciudad de Guatemala. Segün las
informaciones recibidas, estas tres personas habrIan manifestado contra la medida que habrIa
implementado la municipalidad de Guatemala, la cual restringirla la circulaciOn de vehIculos
pesados en la capital, obligando los conductores a trasladar su trabajo a horarios nocturnos y
peligrosos. Durante esta manifestaciOn, se habrIan observado incidentes de orden püblico.
Debido al derrame de gasolina de dos cisternas que se colocaron en un cruce de avenidas en el
centro de Guatemala, a las personas detenidas durante la manifestaciOn, se les habrIa tipificado
entre otros cargos, el de “terrorismo”. Sin embargo, segün testimonios, este acto habrIa sido
realizado por personas infiltradas dentro de la manifestaciOn para provocar el caos. Deacuerdo
con las informaciones recibidas, Victorio Zacarlas Mindez, Wilson Carreto y Miguel Angel
Ochoa se encontrarlan actualmente detenidos en incomunicaciOn en una carcel judicial
preventiva, en condiciones de hacinamiento y de insalubridad debido a la deficiencia de las
instalaciones. Ala luz de estas alegaciones, se han expresado temores por la integridad fIsica de
las personas arriba mencionadas.
272. El 5 de abril de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
promociOn y la protecciOn del derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, enviO un
llamamiento urgente sobre la situaciOn de Thelma Peláez, Fiscal de la SecciOn de Derechos
Humanos del Ministerio Püblico cuyo caso ya fue objeto de un llamamiento urgente enviado por
la Representante Especial el 21 dejunio de 2003. D c acuerdo con la nueva informaciOn recibida,
clii de marzo de 2004, el vehIculo en el cual viajaba Thelma Pelaez habrIa sido perseguido por
una motocicleta blanca de marca Honda con una placa de matrIcula perteneciente al Ministerio
de Defensa Nacional. Los custodios de Thelma Pelaez habrIan interceptado a los tripulantes de la
motocicleta, quienes se habrIan identificados como miembros del Ejercito de Guatemala. Al
inquirir acerca del motivo de la persecuciOn, habrIan dicho a los custodios que la fiscal “deberla
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dejar las cosas en paz.” Se informa ademas que ci mismo 11 de marzo, una pick-up con vidrios
polarizados y sin piacas de matrIcula habrIa perseguido por más de una hora a! vehIculo de
Thelma Peiaez. Sc teme que estés presuntos actos de hostigamiento en contra de Thelma Peiaez
estén relacionados con su trabajo de investigar, entre otros casos, ci asesinato ci 11 de Junio de
2003de1 auxiliar de la Procuradurla de los Derechos Humanos (PDH) de Chimaitenango, José
Israel Lopez LOpez y los hechos de 24 y 25 de Julio de 2003 durante una manifestaciOn Pro RIos
Montt, organizada por la Frente Republica Guatemaiteca, en la cual fueron detenidos varios
indIgenas.
273. El 22 de abril de 2004, la Representante Especial, Junto con ci Relator Especial sobre ci
derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y ci Relator Especial sobre la yenta de niflos, la
prostituciOn infantil y la utilizaciOn de niflos en la pornografla, enviO un ilamamiento urgente en
relaciOn con la situaciOn dci personal de la organizaciOn no gubernamental “ ,Donde están los
niflos y las niflas?”, y en particular, de Maria Isabel Escobar Donis, Ana Morales, Maria
Teresa Soto, Manuel Cedillo y Diego Sunuc. Segün la informaciOn recibida, esta organizaciOn
estarla investigando las circunstancias en que se adoptO a niflos, tras separarios de sus padres,
durante la guerra civil de Guatemala. Se informa que altos mandos dci ejército estarlan
implicados en las adopciones. Se informa que los miembros de la organizaciOn hubieron sido
victimas de constantes amenazas y hostigamiento. En marzo de 2003, dos empicadas de la
organizaciOn habrIan sido agredidas a! regresar de una investigaciOn y las boisas que contenlan
grabaciones magnetofOnicas y otra informaciOn sobre ci caso habrIan sido robados. En visto dci
constante hostigamiento, la organizaciOn habrIa sido obligado mudarse las oficinas en cuatro
ocasiones a lo largo de 2003. En este contexto y segün la informaciOn recibida, a mediados de
marzo de 2004, Maria Isabel Escobar Donis habrIa sido interceptada por tres hombres armados
cerca de las oficinas de la organizaciOn. A punta de pistola, los hombres ic habrIan exigido
entregar sus Haves y habrIan ilevado ci automOvil de la organizaciOn. Ademas, segün la
informaciOn recibida, durante las vacaciones de Pascua, dci 8 a! 12 de abril, las oficinas de la
organizaciOn habrIan sido asaitadas y ademas de ordenadores y otros aparatos, habrIan sido
robados archivos que contenlan informaciOn sobre la participaciOn de militares en violaciones de
derechos humanos durante la guerra civil. Sc teme que estos actos de agresiOn serlan una forma
de intimidar a los miembros de de la organizaciOn, para que abandonase su trabajo de investigar
y resolver las adopciones supuestamente ilegaics de niflos durante la guerra civil.
274. El 14 de Junio de 2004, la Representante Especial enviO una carta de alegaciOn sobre ci
supuesto asesinato de ilugo Oswaldo Gutiérrez Vanegas, presidente dci Comité Protierra de La
Pita, en ci municipio de Santa Ana, departamento de Petén, ci cual lucha por la protecciOn de las
tierras ejidaics y los derechos de las comunidades de esas tierras. Dc acuerdo con las
informaciones, ci Comité Protierra estarla intentando inscribir estas tierras en ci registro civil dci
municipio de Santa Ana, pero hasta la fecha las autoridades no habrIan dado marcha a este
proceso y ci aicaide municipal de Santa Ana habrIa negado reconocer ci Comité Protierra. Segün
la informaciOn recibida, ci 5 deJunio de 2004, Hugo Oswaido Gutiérrez Vanegas habrIa sido
asesinado a goipes de machete, en ci camino de entrada a la aidea La Pita, a! regresar a su hogar
tras haber participado en un encuentro de formaciOn. Sc informa ademas que en ci mes de abril,
Hugo Gutiérrez Vanegas habrIa sufrido un atentado contra su vida en ci mismo lugar y segün los
informes, ci Ministerio Pübiico no habrIa tomado medidas adecuadas para investigar ci incidente.
Sc teme que ci supuesto asesinato de Hugo Oswaido Gutiérrez Vanegas esté relacionado con su
actividad de defensa de los derechos de los habitantes de la comunidad de La Pita.
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275. El 15 de Julio de 2004, la Representante Especial, Junto con la Relatora Especial sobre la
violencia contra la muJer y el Relator Especial sobre la yenta de niflos, la prostituciôn infantil y
la utilizacion de niflos en la pornografia, enviô un llamamiento urgente en relacion con los hijos
de Margarita Perez Aguilar y José Elias Juárez, ambos miembros activos del Sindicato de
Finca Maria Lourdes. El Sindicato de Finca Maria Lourdes vela por los derechos de los
trabaJadores que habrian sido hostigados por la direccion de la plantacion tras presentar una
denuncia en 1992 por la despedida ilegal de 47 miembros. D c acuerdo con las informaciones
recibidas, la hiJa de 15 altos de edad y su hermano de 13 altos de edad, estaban lavando ropa
cerca de su casa por la tarde del 6 de Julio de 2004 cuando dos hombres con el rostro cubierto por
pasamontaflas los habrian atacado y arrastrado a punta de pistola a un cafetal cercano, donde los
habrian atado con su ropa. A continuaciôn, uno de los hombres habria violado a la nifla mientras
el otro montaba guardia. Los trabaJadores de la plantacion que buscaban a los niflos
desaparecidos los habrian encontrado aproximadamente una hora despuCs. Los dos niflos habrian
sido golpeados. El 7 de Julio de 2004, los padres de los niflos habrian presentado una denuncia
ante el Ministerio Püblico y la Procuraduria de los Derechos Humanos. En su testimonio, la nifla
habria identificado al hombre que estuvo montando guardia como el director de la Finca Maria
Lourdes, por su ropa y su comportamiento. El 8 de Julio de 2004, el medico forense local habria
confirmado que la nifla habria sido violada. Aün no se habria dictado ninguna orden de detencion
en relacion con este ataque. Se teme que esta violacion pudiera formar parte de las tácticas de
intimidacion emprendidas por la direccion de la plantacion contra los activistas sindicales que
habrian emprendido acciones legales contra la plantacion. En marzo de 2004, el director de la
plantacion habria ofrecido una recompensa a cualquiera de los guardias privados de seguridad de
la plantacion que violara a una muJer relacionada con el sindicato. El 8 de Julio de 2004, los
abogados que representan a la Finca Maria Lourdes habrian advertido a otros miembros del
sindicato de que serian detenidos si implicaban al director de la plantacion en la denuncia de
violacion.
276. El 19 de Julio de 2004, la Representante Especial enviô una carta de alegacion en relacion
con la situaciôn de Erminio Gonzáles secretario general del Sindicato de TrabaJadores de la
Municipalidad de Esquipulas y secretario general adJunto de la Federacion Nacional de
Servidores Püblicos. Segün la informacion recibida, el 17 de septiembre 2002, Erminio Gonzáles
habria sido despedido de su trabaJo como peon de limpieza municipal en la municipalidad de
Esquipulas de una forma supuestamente ilegal, Junto con otros 41 trabaJadores. Se informa que
Erminio Gonzáles, Junto con sus compafleros, habria reclamado ante el alcalde el pago del bono
incentivo que supuestamente nunca habrian recibido. Por tal motivo, habrian presentado una
demanda al Juzgado de TrabaJo y PrevisiOn de Chiquimula en contra del alcalde por
incumplimiento de pago del citado bono. Supuestamente, a partir de esa demanda, el alcalde
habria iniciado una serie de hostigamientos y represalias en contra de los trabaJadores. Segün la
informaciOn recibida, el 30 de Junio de 2004, Erminio Gonzáles habria recibido una amenaza de
muerte telefOnica en la que un desconocido habria hecho referencia al despedido ilegal “Te
recordás de los hechos en Morales, si allá te escapaste, pero, esta noche no escaparás, porque te
tenemos vigilantes. Te doy 15 dias para que salis de aqui, sino lo haces te quito la vida, vieJo
serote”. Se teme que esta presunta amenaza de muerte en contra de Erminio Gonzáles pueda
estar relacionada con el conflicto en torno a su despedida y en particular por su trabaJo de
sindicalista en el cual vela por los derechos laborales de los trabaJadores municipales.
E/CN.4/2005/1O 1/Add. 1
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277. El 2 de agosto de 2004, la Representante Especial enviô un llamamiento urgente sobre la
informacion recibida en relacion con la seguridad de Edda Gaviola, directora del Centro para
Acciôn Legal en Derechos Humanos (CALDH), y de los testigos de la masacre de Plan de
Sanchez. CALDH actüa como asesorJurIdico de los supervivientes de la masacre de Plan de
Sanchez del 18 deJulio de 1982, que resulto en la muerte de 268 personas a manos de las fuerzas
armadas guatemaltecas. El 29 de abril de 2004, el CALDH habrIa presentado el caso de Plan de
Sanchez ante la Corte Interamericana de Derechos Humanos con la consecuencia de que la Corte
habrIa condenado al Gobierno guatemalteco por la matanza. Segün la informacion recibida, el 14
y 15 de Julio, la casa de Edda Gaviola habrIa sido asaltada. Los asaltantes habrIan deJado
mensaJes intimidatorios y registrado sus documentos personales. El 16 de Julio, una de las
oficinas de CALDH habrIa sido asaltada y segün la informacion, los asaltantes habrIan robado un
ordenador portatil y un telefono movil y habrIan registrado documentos que contenlan
informacion importante sobre el trabaJo del Centro. Tras el asalto a la casa de Edda Gaviola, las
autoridades habrIan incrementado la protecciôn a una presencia policial permanente de 24 horas
al dIa. Sin embargo, las oficinas fheron asaltadas. El 17 de Julio de 2004, un testigo de la masacre
habrIa oldo una motocicleta que se habrIa aproximado a su comunidad y a su casa. D c
madrugada, se encontrô una caJa que contenla una amenaza de muerte que decla “Pronto seras
muerto, por ser testigo de la masacre de Plan de Sanchez y por ser responsable del condena del
estado de Guatemala. Esta es tu querido premio pronto seras asesinado. Feliz Aniversario del 18
de Julio”. Se teme que estos actos de hostigamiento en contra de Edda Gaviola y la supuesta
amenaza de muerte en contra de un testigo de la masacre de Plan de Sanchez puedan constituir
un claro intento de intimidar a los supervivientes y al personal del CALDH para que deJen de
perseguir a los responsables de las matanzas perpetradas durante los aflos de conflicto en
Guatemala, incluido el caso de Plan de Sanchez. Se teme también que otros empleados del
CALDH pueden correr peligro.
278. El 9 de agosto de 2004, la Representante Especial, Junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
promociôn y la protecciôn del derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn, enviO una carta
adicional en relaciOn con la seguridad de los miembros del Centro para Acción Legal en
Derechos ilumanos (CALD11), y de los testigos de la masacre de Plan de Sanchez. D c acuerdo
con las informaciones recibidas, durante el mes de Julio de 2004, el CALDH y los testigos del
Plan Sanchez habrIan sido suJetos de una campafla de intimidaciOn y hostigamiento que habrIa
resultado en el allanamiento de la casa de la directora del CALDH y de las oficinas de la sede. El
17 deJulio, se habrIa amenazado de muerte a uno de los testigos de la masacre de Plan de
Sanchez. Se informa también que el dIa 30 de Julio, se habrIan recibido en la sede de CALDH
llamadas anOnimas que habrIan avisado de la colocaciOn de una bomba en el edificio. Sin
embargo, estas amenazas no se habrIan cumplido hasta la fecha. Segün la nueva informaciOn
recibida, el 1 de agosto, una nota escrita a mano habrIa sido deJada en la sede del CALDH de
Rabinal, BaJa Verapaz, en la cual habrIa amenazado de muerte al mismo testigo de la masacre de
Plan de Sanchez y al personal del CALDH, en particular al vocero, Miguel Angel Albizures. Se
teme que estos nuevos actos de hostigamiento en contra del personal del CALDH y esta segunda
amenaza de muerte en contra del mismo testigo del Plan de Sanchez puedan constituir un
verdadero intento de intimidar a los supervivientes de la masacre y al personal del CALDH para
que deJen de exprimirse sobre el masacre y perseguir a los responsables de las matanzas
perpetradas durante los aflos de conflicto en Guatemala. En particular se teme que la vida del
testigo y de los empleados del CALDH estén en peligro.
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279. El 6 de septiembre de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial
sobre la promociOn y la protecciOn del derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y el
Relator Especial sobre la tortura, enviO una carta de alegaciOn en relaciOn con Gerardo
Montenegro, Luis Romero, Mynor Tuc, Edwar Morales, Mario Morales, Julio Rodas,
Francisco Revolorio y Dervin Revolorio, periodistas de varios medios de comunicaciOn en
Guatemala. Segün la informaciOn recibida, el 31 de agosto de 2004, estos periodistas habrIan
sido agredidos por agentes de la Policla Nacional Civil (PNC) durante un enfrentamiento armado
entre campesinos y las fuerzas del orden. Los hechos habrIan tenido lugar durante el desalojo
forzado de más de mil campesinos de la Finca Nueva Linda, Puerto Champerico, departamento
de Retalhuleu, al que los campesinos se habrIan opuesto. Se alega que los policlas habrIan
golpeado a los periodistas, tirandolos al suelo y pateandolos, y habrIan confiscado sus equipos de
trabajo, incluso cámaras fotograficas y de television. Los agentes de la PNC habrIan agredido los
periodistas cuando éstos habrIan intentado cubrir el supuesto excesivo uso de fherza con la que la
policla habrIa actuado en contra de los campesinos. En particular, los periodistas habrIan
intentado filmar como unos policlas golpeaban a un campesino gravemente herido. Segün se
informa, varios policlas y campesinos habrIan fallecido durante el desalojo, y otros habrIan
resultado heridos. Se teme que estos actos de violencia en contra de los periodistas puedan estar
directamente relacionados con su trabajo de difundir las imágenes de las supuestas violaciones
de derechos humanos cometidas por los agentes de la PNC en contra de los campesinos.
280. El 21 de septiembre de 2004, la Representante Especial enviO una carta de alegaciOn en
relaciOn con la informaciOn sobre la seguridad de Mario Minera, coordinador del Programa de
Fortalecimiento Municipal y Desarrollo Democrático del Centro para AcciOn Legal en Derechos
Humanos (CALDH) en la ciudad de Guatemala. Segün la informaciOn recibida, clii de
septiembre de 2004, hacia las seis y media de la mañana, Mario Minero se habrIa dirigido a la
ciudad de Solola donde habrIa fijado una reuniOn con Andrea Barrios, miembro del programa de
derechos de las mujeres del CALDH. Mientras se habrIa dirigido hacia Solola en un vehIculo del
CALDH, dos hombres presuntamente armados le habrIan encaflonado y amenazado de muerte si
no obedecla a sus ordenes. Se informa que le habrIan obligado a subirse a un vehIculo y le
habrIan secuestrado por un periodo de aproximadamente media hora para luego abandonarlo en
una calle de la zona once. Antes de dejarlo en libertad, los asaltantes habrIan registrado sus
pertenencias personales y llevado los documentos de CALDH, diciendole que le serlan devueltos
posteriormente. Se informa tambien que cuando Andrea Barrios habrIa llegado al sitio convenido
para la reuniOn, el estacionamiento del Restaurante Parador en la calle Roosevelt, ya se lo
habrIan llevado a Mario Minero y ella habrIa notado la presencia de un vehIculo extraflo y otro
sin placas que se habrIa quedado allI hasta que ella se habla ido del lugar. Se teme que estos
actos de hostigamiento y acoso en contra de Mario Minero puedan estar directamente
relacionados con sus actividades como defensor de derechos humanos y miembro del CALDH.
Se teme tambien que otros empleados del CALDH pueden corer serio peligro dado que la
instituciOn ha sido objeto de dos previas comunicaciones con respecto a actos de intimidaciOn e
hostigamiento durante el pasado mes de agosto. Las previas comunicaciones fueron enviadas al
Gobierno el 2 de agosto y el 9 de agosto 2004 conjuntamente con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn
281. El 7 de octubre de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con la Relatora Especial sobre
los derechos humanos de los migrantes, enviO un llamamiento urgente sobre el allanamiento y
robo en las oficinas del Centro de Atención al Migrante (CAM), organizaciOn dedicada a
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ofrecer ayuda humanitaria a la poblacion migrante en Guatemala. Segün las informaciones
recibidas, el 20 de septiembre de 2004, el equipo de oficina del CAM (ordenadores personales,
teléfonos, fax y cámaras fotograficas) habrIan sido sustraldo y sus archivos destruidos. La fuente
afirma que el allanamiento de las oficinas del CAM no serla un hecho aislado, sino que formarla
parte de una ola de ataques que estarlan sufriendo las organizaciones de derecho humanos en
Guatemala.
282. El 19 de octubre de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre
el derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn, enviO un llamamiento urgente en relaciOn con
la seguridad del personal de Ia Procuradurla de Derechos ilumanos (PDII) de Coatepeque,
Quetzaltenango, y en particular, el auxiliar Luis Alberto LOpez BatzIn. Segün la informaciOn
recibida, el 30 dejulio de 2004, la sede de la PDH habrIa sido avisada sobre la existencia de una
bomba que les obligO a suspender una conferencia de prensa en la que se convocaba a la marcha
nacional contra la violencia. D c acuerdo con la nueva informaciOn recibida, el 4 de agosto de
2004, Luis Alberto LOpez BatzIn habrIa sido amenazado de muerte por hombres armados que
habrIan entrado en la oficina de la PDH. Se informa también que durante los dIas posteriores a
dicho suceso, habrIa recibido llamadas telefOnicas en la oficina amenazando a todos los
funcionarios de la PDH y en particular a la familia de Luis Alberto LOpez BatzIn. Se alega que la
situaciOn se habrIa agravado de tal manera que el personal de la PDH decidiO encerrar la oficina
para prevenirse de posibles riesgos mayores. Se teme que estos actos de hostigamiento y las
amenazas de muerte en contra de Luis Alberto LOpez BatzIn y el personal de la PDH puedan
estar relacionados con ciertos casos actualmente a cargo de la Procuradurla, mismos en los que
podrIan estar involucrados grupos armados ilegales de la zona.
283. El 28 de octubre de 2004, la Representante Especial enviO un llamamiento urgente en
relaciOn con la seguridad de Mario René Lopez Sagastume, representante del Procurador de los
derechos humanos de Guatemala en la Auxiliatura de Escuintla. Segün las informaciones
recibidas, el 14 de septiembre de 2004 a las 20.00 horas aproximadamente, el auxiliar
departamental Mario René LOpez Sagastume habrIa recibido una amenaza anOnima por teléfono
en la Auxiliatura, en la que le habrIan dicho ‘ya te controlamos'. El 17 y el 19 de septiembre de
2004, habrIa recibido otras llamadas anOnimas en las que una persona con voz masculina se rela
y le habrIa amenazado de nuevo. Se informa que durante el mes de octubre de 2004, Sr. LOpez
Sagastume habrIa recibido varias llamadas anOnimas amenazandole de muerte. D c acuerdo con
los informes recibidos, el 5 de octubre, hacia las nueve de la tarde, el realizador de la llamada le
habrIa dicho “ya te tenemos en la lista y te vas a morir, hijo de la gran puta no te metas a
mierdas”. El 8 de octubre, hacia la misma hora habrIa recibido otra llamada en que le habrIan
dicho “te vas a morir”, y el dIa siguiente hacia medianoche, le habrIan dicho en una nueva
llamada que “te vas a morir, deja de meterte a lo que note importa ya conocemos lo que haces
hijo de puta”. Se informa también que Erwin Barrientos, investigador de la Auxiliatura de
Esquintla, mientras mantenla una conversaciOn telefOnica con un funcionario de la MisiOn de las
Naciones Unidas de Guatemala, ambos habrIan entendido sonidos extraflos y los aparatos se
habrIan quedado mudos indicando tal vez la posibilidad de una intervenciOn telefOnica por
desconocidos. Se teme que estas amenazas en contra de Mario René LOpez Sagastume y la
presunta intervenciOn telefOnica de los aparatos de la Auxiliatura en el departamento de
Escuintla puedan constituir un claro intento de impedir su trabajo de defensor de derechos
humanos. Se teme también que estos actos de intimidaciOn puedan estar relacionados con ciertos
casos llevados por la Auxiliatura en contra de agentes y oficiales de la Policla Nacional y otros
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casos en los que pueden estar involucrados narcotraficantes. Estos hechos han hecho que la
Instituciôn del Procurador solicite seguridad permanente en la sede de la Auxiliatura, la que esta
siendo proporcionada por un agente de la Policla Nacional Civil con puesto fijo.
Comunicaciones recibidas
284. Por carta fechada el 28 dejunio de 2004, el Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 20 de enero de 2004 con respecto al caso de Bruce
ilarris, el director de Caza Alianza. El Gobierno informo que el 30 de enero de 2004, el citado
ciudadano habrIa sido absuelto de las acusaciones en su contra por el Tribunal Duodecimo de
Sentencia Penal. La denunciante seguirá con las acusaciones de difamacion, calumnia e injuria
en la Sala Décima de la Corte de Apelaciones.
285. Por carta fechada el 13 de octubre de 2004, el Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial le 5 de abril de 2004 referente a la situaciôn de
Thelma Inés Peláez Pinelo de Lam. Segün la Policla Nacional Civil, habrIa brindado medidas
de seguridad a la afectada, y en la actualidad, lo habrIa asignado seis agentes uniformados de la
PNC a la casa de su progenitora. En cuanto a la Fiscalla, una investigaciôn habrIa sido iniciada,
tras de la cual habrIa solicitado al Servicio de Investigaciones CriminalIsticas de la Policla
Nacional Civil y al Director de Investigaciones CriminalIsticas del Ministerio Püblico la
designacion de las personas para realizar la investigaciôn respectiva. Asimismo, habrIa solicitado
al Ministerio de la Defensa informacion sobre los presuntos sindicados, y al Superintendencia de
Administracion Tributaria-SAT informacion sobre el vehIculo presuntamente utilizado en la
persecuciôn contra la agraviada. El Gobierno informo igualmente que no estarla necesario que la
citada ciudadana sea entrevistada por el Servicio de Investigaciones CriminalIsticas de la Policla
Nacional Civil y que la identificacion del vehIculo notado en la denuncia serla suficiente. El 3 de
agosto del 2004, la afectada habrIa tenido una entrevista con la Comisiôn Presidencial por medio
de la cual habrIa manifestado que se le siguen brindando las medidas de seguridad. El Gobierno
declaro seguir atento al resultado de las investigaciones e informar oportunamente a la
Representante Especial.
286. Por carta de fecha del 27 de enero de 2005, el Gobierno contestô a la comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 14 dejunio de 2004 relativa a ilugo Oswaldo
Vanegas Gutiérrez. Segün el Gobierno y la oficial que lleva el caso, the más probable que la
muerte habrIa sido un crimen pasional, y no por su liderazgo del Comité Protierra de La Pita. El
Gobierno informo que el caso se encuentra en fase preparatoria de investigaciôn, y por lo
momento, habrIan realizado los allanamientos respectivos y las declaraciones de los testigos.
Una entrevista con la hija del difunto confirmo que él habrIa sido victima de varios actos de
hostigamiento y amenazas de muerte en meses precedente a su asesinato. En la actualidad, la
orden de aprehension en contra del sospechoso se encuentra pendiente de verificar, por que no
hay nadie que identifique al sindicado.
Observaciones
287. The Special Representative would like to thank the Government for its responses, but
regrets the absence of replies to several other communications sent. She considers that the
Government's explanations with regard to the case of Mr. Harris solve the concerns raised in the
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communication. She also welcomes the steps taken to protect the physical safety of Thelma Ines
Pelaez Pinelo de Lam. In connection with the death of Hugo Oswaldo Vanegas Gutierrez, the
Special Representative intends to monitor closely the ongoing investigation and requests that the
Government inform her of its progress. The Special Representative remains deeply concerned at
the security of human rights defenders carrying out their legitimate work in Guatemala. She
refers to her main of report (E/CN.4/2005/101) for a detailed analysis of the trends in the
situation of human rights defenders in Guatemala and for her observations.
ilaiti
Communications envoyées
288. Le 13 fevrier 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec la Presidente-
Rapporteur du groupe de travail sur la detention arbitraire, a envoye une lettre d'allegation
concernant l'arrestation presumee de Kettly Julien, coordinatrice de l'Institut mobile
d'education democratique (IMED), partenaire de HaIti solidarite internationale (HSI) travaillant
a la prise en charge de victimes de violence de tous bords et a la documentation de leur cas.
Selon les informations reçues, Kettly Julien aurait etc arrétee le 6 fevrier 2004 vers midi alors
qu'elle etait en reunion avec quatre autres personnes. Le mandat d'arrêt pour << complot contre la
sürete de l'Etat>> n'aurait etc redige qu'â posteriori sous la pression de membres de la Brigade
d'intervention rapide. Kettly Julien serait actuellement detenue a la police <> de Port-
au-Prince. Des craintes ont etc exprimees que l'arrestation de Kettly Julien n'ait pour but de faire
obstruction a ses activites en faveur des droits de l'homme, en particulier l'assistance aux
victimes de violence, la distribution de medicaments et la documentation de cas de violations
presumees.
289. Le 4 aoüt 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special sur
la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, a envoye un appel
urgent concernant M. Jean-Claude Bajeux et Mme Sylvie Bajeux, responsables du Centre
iecumenique des droits de l'homme (CEDH), une organisation de defense des droits de l'homme
basee a Port-au-Prince, en HaIti. Un appel urgent a etc envoye le 22 juillet 2002 par la
Representante speciale du Secretaire general sur la situation des defenseurs des droits de
l'homme, le Rapporteur special sur la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et
d'expression et la Rapporteuse speciale sur les executions sommaires, arbitraires et
extrajudiciaires. Selon les informations reçues, vers 3 heures, dans la nuit du 1 er au 2 aoüt, des
hommes armes auraient tire a deux reprises sur le domicile de M. et Mme Bajeux. Prevenue a
3 h 20, la police scientifique ne serait venue constater les faits que vers 10 heures du matin.
L'attaque visant les responsables du CEDH intervient aprés le cinquiême Forum pour la reforme
de lajustice penale dont M. Jean-Claude Bajeux est le porte-parole et alors qu'une delegation de
la FIDH, qui aurait particuliêrement beneficie de l'aide du CEDH dans l'organisation de sa
mission, est actuellement presente en HaIti. Des craintes ont etc exprimees que cette attaque ne
soit en relation avec les activites de defense des droits de l'homme et en particulier leur
participation active au Forum pour la reforme de lajustice penale. Ces craintes sont d'autant plus
vives que M. et Mme Bajeux auraient deja fait l'objet d'attaques et de menaces en raison de leur
action en faveur des droits de l'homme en HaIti. En particulier, en octobre 2003, ils auraient etc
attaques par des hommes armes au moment oü ils rentraient chez eux et, en juillet 2002, leur
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residence aurait ete prise d'assaut par des hommes qui, sous la menace d'armes de poing,
auraient sequestre Mme Sylvie Bajeux et quatre de leurs employes presents.
290. Le 22 octobre 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special
sur la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, le Rapporteur
special sur l'independance des juges et des avocats et le Rapporteur special sur les executions
extrajudiciaires, sommaires ou arbitraires, a envoye un appel urgent concernant la situation de
Rénan ilédouville, avocat et secretaire general du Comite des avocats pour le respect des
libertes individuelles (CARLI), et de Mario Joseph, avocat travaillant pour le Bureau des avocats
internationaux. Renan Hedouville et Mario Joseph travailleraient a la defense de personnes dont
les droits fondamentaux auraient etc violes par l'armee haltienne entre 1991 et 1994, et
notamment en faveur des familles des victimes du massacre de Raboteau en avril 1994. En aoüt
2004, le CARLI aurait notamment proteste contre l'acquittement d'officiels de l'armee qui
auraient etc impliques dans le meurtre en septembre 1993 d'Antoine Izmery. Mario Joseph
representerait par ailleurs des partisans notoires du parti de l'ex-president Aristide, le parti
Famille Lavalas, qui auraient recemment etc emprisonnes sans charge. D'aprês les informations
reçues, tous deux seraient actuellement menaces de mort s'ils ne cessent leurs activites de
defense des droits de l'homme et s'ils persistent a accuser d'anciens officiers de l'armee.
D'autres membres du CARLI, parmi lesquels Marie Nadia Charles, directrice executive,
Morisseau Jean Rony, avocat, et Carline Seide, qui avait reçu l'aide de l'organisation, seraient
contraints de vivre dans la clandestinite en raison du harcélement dont ils feraient l'objet.
Observations
291. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communications.
ilonduras
Comunicaciones enviadas
292. El 19 de abril de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
promociôn y la protecciôn del derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn, el Relator
Especial sobre la tortura y la Relatora Especial sobre ejecuciones extrajudiciales, sumarias o
arbitrarias, enviO un llamamiento urgente en relaciOn con Sara Sauceda Flores, cuyo hijo,
Darwin Roberto Sauceda Flores, habrIa sido detenido y sometido a malos tratos en varias
ocasiones, amenazado de muerte y ejecutado sumariamente el 17 de febrero de 2002 en el barrio
de Colonia La Trinidad, en ComayagUela en la ciudad de Tegucigalpa. El caso de Darwin
Roberto Sauceda Flores fue el objeto de una comunicaciOn el 8 de abril de 2004 por el Relator
Especial sobre la tortura. D c acuerdo con la nueva informaciOn recibida, Sara Sauceda Flores
habrIa denunciado a dos agentes a los que acusa de ser responsables del homicidio de su hijo.
Ademas habrIa criticado abiertamente a las autoridades por no llevar a cabo una investigaciOn
adecuada sobre el caso de su hijo. Dicho caso habrIa sido asignado al Juzgado de Letras Segundo
de lo Criminal para que se iniciaran procedimientos judiciales. Desde que habrIa interpuesto su
denuncia, Sara Sauceda Flores habrIa sido repetidamente intimidada. El 12 de abril de 2004,
habrIa recibido una amenaza de muerte anOnima en su lugar de trabajo, en la ciudad de
Tegucigalpa. Segün indican los informes, el 17 de marzo de 2004, cuando Sara Sauceda Flores
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se dirigia a su trabajo, ci taxi en ci que viajaba habria sido goipeado por un automovii en ci que
viajaban dos personas. Sara Sauceda Fiores habria reconocido a! pasajero como ci hombre que
anteriormente la habria acosado desde otro automovii. Ademas, segün la informacion recibida,
en enero de 2004, Sara Sauceda Fiores habrla encontrado tres casquililos de bala en su taquilila de
su lugar de trabajo. Habria denunciado todas las amenazas y los actos de intimidacion a!
Ministerio de Seguridad Pübiica de Honduras.
293. El 8 de junio de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con ci Relator Especial sobre ci
derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn y ci Relator Especial sobre la situaciOn de los
derechos humanos y las libertades fhndamentaies de los indigenas, enviO un ilamamiento urgente
en relaciOn con José Idalecio Murillo, lider de la Coordinadora Regional de Resistencia Popular
(CRRP), una organizaciOn de defensa de los derechos humanos y dci medio ambiente basada en
ci departamento de Intibuca, y varios activistas dci Consejo Civico de Organizaciones Jndigenas
Populares (COPINIH). Dc acuerdo con las informaciones recibidas, ci 27 de mayo de 2004,
cuatro desconocidos habrian disparado contra la casa de José Idaiecio Murillo. Los informes
indican que ci ilder de la CRRP habria denunciado este caso ante la Fiscaila y la DirecciOn
General de InvestigaciOn Criminal (DGIC). Otros miembros dci CRRP también habrian sido
amenazados de muerte durante las üitimas semanas. Sc teme que estas amenazas estén
vinculadas con la campafla realizada por ci CRRP contra la expiotaciOn maderera en la zonal
central dci pals y contra la presunta corrupciOn dci gobierno local. Sc informa ademas que varios
activistas dci COPINH, una de las organizaciones más importantes dci CRRP, habrian sido
agredidos por sus esfherzos por proteger ci entorno natural de la zona de expiotaciOn por parte de
las empresas madereras. El 19 de mayo de 2004, unos activistas dci COPIINH habrian bioqucado
camiones y confiscado la madera que transportaban hasta ci departamento de La Paz. El 20 de
mayo de 2004, un hombre habria entrado en las oficinas dci COPIINH y habria amenazado a las
personas presentes. Habria preguntado “tcon qué derecho me robaron mi madera?” Al salir,
habria gritado “a los tres los voy a matar”. El 29 de mayo de 2004, una bala de 9mm habria sido
encontrada en la puerta de entrada dci COPINIH. Estos hechos habrian sido denunciados ante la
DGIC, ci Comisionado Nacional de Derechos Humanos (CONADEH) y la Fiscaila, pero se teme
que la Fiscaila, segün los informes, habria rechazado la denuncia. Las amenazas contra activistas
dci COPINIH ya fueron objeto de un ilamamiento urgente enviado por la Relatora Especial sobre
ejecuciones extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias, ci Relator Especial sobre la tortura, la
Representante Especial, ci Relator Especial sobre la independencia de magistrados y abogados y
ci Relator Especial sobre la situaciOn de los derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentaics de
los indigenas ci 8 de octubre de 2003.
294. El 11 de junio de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con ci Relator Especial sobre
ejecuciones extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias, enviO un ilamamiento urgente sobre la
situaciOn de Andrés Pavón, presidente dci Comité para la Defensa de los Derechos Humanos en
Honduras (CODEH), organizaciOn independiente de derechos humanos. Segün la informaciOn
recibida, Andrés PavOn habria acusado a! Gobierno de violaciOn de derechos humanos,
negligencia y negaciOn de justicia a raiz de la muerte de más de 100 personas, ocurrida durante
un incendio en la prisiOn de San Pedro Sula ci 17 de mayo de 2004. Segün los informes, durante
ci incendio, se habria mantenido a los jOvenes encerrados adentro y no se ics habria permitido
escapar. En este contexto y segün la informaciOn recibida, desde finales de mayo 2004 Andrés
PavOn habr la recibido cuatro ilamadas telefOnicas amenazadoras, dos en su teléfono mOvil y dos
en ci teléfono de su oficina en las cuales ci autor ic habr la dicho que iba a “acabar con los
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defensores de mareros.” También se informa que durante la ültima semana de mayo, se habria
visto un automOvil con los cristales tintados delante de la casa en la que Andrés PavOn pasa los
fines de semana, a unos 45 minutos de Tegucigalpa. Se informa ademas que Andrés PavOn
habria sido atacado verbalmente en la television y la radio. Durante un programa de radio
nacional, tanto un miembro del personal de la radio como ciudadanos comunes habrian dicho
que Andrés PavOn deberia recibir un tiro por “defender a delincuentes” y en un programa de la
television nacional habrian sugerido que se matara al hijo de Andrés PavOn o a otro familiar
cercano para ver si segula con su trabajo. Frente a esta situaciOn, el 29 de mayo Andrés PavOn
habria pedido medidas cautelares a la ComisiOn Interamericana de Derechos Humanos. Se teme
que estas amenazas contra Andrés PavOn estén relacionados con su actividad de derechos
humanos, y en particular la de pedir una investigaciOn por la muerte de más de 100 reclusos
durante el incendio en la prisiOn de San Pedro Sula.
295. El 12 de agosto de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, enviO una carta de alegaciOn sobre varios
activistas del Consejo CIvico de Organizaciones IndIgenas Populares (COPIN11), basado en
el departamento de Intibuca. Durante el mes de mayo de 2004, habrian sido agredidos por sus
esfuerzos por proteger el entorno natural de la zona de explotaciOn por parte de las empresas
madereras. Ademas se informe que el 27 de mayo de 2004, cuatro desconocidos habrian
disparado en contra de la casa de José Idalecio Murillo, lider de la CRRP. Habria denunciado
este caso ante la Fiscalia y la DGIC. Otros miembros del CRRP también habrian sido
amenazados de muerte. Se teme que estas amenazas estén vinculadas con la campafla realizada
por el CRRP contra la explotaciOn maderera en la zonal central del pals y contra la presunta
corrupciOn del gobierno local.
296. El 4 de noviembre de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial
sobre la tortura, enviO un llamamiento urgente en relaciOn con el Centro de Prevención,
Tratamiento y Rehabilitación de las Victimas de Ia Tortura y sus Familiares (CPTRT),
organizaciOn no gubernamental de Honduras. Segün las alegaciones recibidas el 26 y el 27 de
octubre de 2004, las oficinas del CPTRT fueron destruidas. Los archivos y papeles fueron
revueltos, amenazas de muerte contra el personal inscritas en las paredes, y varios libros en
forma de cruz fueron colocados en el piso de la oficina del director. Después de un incidente
similar en mayo de 2003, la organizaciOn tuvo que cambiarse a sus locales actuales. Segün los
informes, el ataque está relacionado con el apoyo de las organizaciones a una campafla reciente
sobre la independencia del sistema judicial del Ministerio de Seguridad.
Comunicaciones recibidas
297. Por carta fechada el 28 de junio de 2004, el Gobierno contestO a la comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 19 de abril de 2004 con informaciOn referente a la
muerte de Darwin Roberto Sauceda Flores. El Gobierno informO que la unidad especial sobre
la muerte de menores habria iniciado una investigaciOn, a través de la cual se confirmO que los
presuntos responsables forman parte de los integrantes de la pandilla “MS” que habrian operado
en la Colonia Bella Vista de Comayaguela. No obstante, el caso no se habria presentado ante la
Fiscalia del Ministerio Publico por falta de testigos.
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298. Por carta fechada ci 30 de junio de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô a la comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ciii de junio de 2004 con respecto a la seguridad de
Andrés Pavón y su familia. El Gobierno, conforme con las recomendaciones de la Comisiôn
Interamericana de los Derechos Humanos, habrIa otorgado varias medidas cautelares para la
seguridad de Andres Pavôn y su familia, entre elias, un patruilaje de protecciôn, un teléfono
celular mediante ci cual podrIa comunicar con ci personal de la Policla Nacional. El Gobierno
informo que la Ministerla de Seguridad está conciuyendo unas investigaciones, los resuitados de
que serán remitidas a la mayor brevedad posibie.
299. Por carta fechada ci 18 de octubre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô a la comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 12 de agosto de 2004 referente a las varias
denuncias de miembros dci Consejo CIvico de Organizaciones IndIgenas Populares (COPINIH).
El Gobierno confirmo que los afectados habrIan presentado unas denuncias ante ci Ministerio
Pübiico e informo que ci procedimiento investigativo se encuentra en etapa preliminar y
continuará con ci objetivo de determinar la verdad sobre las denuncias presentadas. Con respecto
a la denuncia interpuesta por ci Sr. Murillo MejIa, esta fue totaimente investigada y remitida al
Ministerio Pübiico. Sin embargo ci ofendido habrIa desautorizado a la Fiscaila General para que
ejercitara la acciôn penal pübiica por tratarse de un delito de orden pübiico a instancia, y como
consecuencia se ordeno ci archivo administrativo dci caso.
Observaciones
300. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its responses. She welcomes the
positive steps taken by the Government. In the case of Darwin Roberto Sauceda Fiores, she
welcomes the initiating of an investigation but remains concerned by the fact that the absence of
witnesses resulted in no charges being pressed. She commends the Government for complying
with the request for precautionary measures by the Interamerican Commission on Human Rights
in the case of Andrés Pavôn and looks forward to being informed about the findings of the
investigation. Despite these positive developments, the Special Representative remains
concerned by the level of impunity enjoyed by the perpetrators of these crimes.
India
Communications sent
301. On 3 February 2004, the Special Representative sent a letter of allegation about the
alleged killing of Santa and Mahesh Kant, two land rights activists in India. According to the
information received, on 24January 2004 at 7 p.m., Santa and Mahesh Kant were allegedly killed
as they were travelling by bike from Shabdo village to the Fatehpur Block Resource Centre. It is
reported that they were stopped by a group of heavily armed men, suspected to be members of a
local gang, and shot at point blank range. Santa reportedly died immediately and Mahesh died
later from the gunshot wound. According to the information received, Santa and Mahesh Kant
had been working with the local community of Shabdo village to achieve sustainable and
equitable use of land resources. Their work reportedly involved reclaiming common land that
had been taken by powerful gangs. Concerns have been expressed that these killings may be in
reprisal for their work in the defence of land rights. Concerns are heightened by reports that the
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local mafia had allegedly already threatened both activists, who had reportedly refused to give up
their work.
302. On 18 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
violence against women and the Special Rapporteur on the sale of children, child prostitution and
child pornography, transmitted an urgent appeal regarding the situation of Kailash Satyarthi, an
activist for the abolition of child labour and chairperson of Global March Against Child Labour
and Global Campaign for Education. According to the information received, on 15 June 2004,
Kailash Satyarthi, accompanied by four parents who claimed that their daughters were being
held in bondage in the Great Roman Circus in Colonel Tehsil, Gonda district in Uttar Pradesh,
met the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, the Police Superintendent and media representatives in order
to conduct a rescue operation at the circus. According to information received, the circus uses
these children as well as many other minor girls for labour and keeps them in bondage. It is
reported that in the presence of the Magistrate and the Police Superintendent, the owner of the
circus threatened Kailash Satyarthi at gunpoint, and with other members of the circus, attacked
him and the parents with iron rods and knives. They reportedly managed to escape, despite
attempts by the circus owner and the members of the local administration to block the exit.
Kailash Satyarthi was reportedly taken to hospital in Lucknow, where he was treated for head
injuries and is reported to be in a stable condition. It is reported that despite confirmation from
the administration of Uttar Pradesh that they would undertake action to release the children from
the circus and despite the presence of members of this administration during the rescue
operation, no action has been taken. Concern is expressed that Kailash Satyarthi has been
targeted for his work to defend children's rights and promote the abolition of child labour.
303. On 15 September 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people and the Special
Rapporteur on torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Umakanta Meitei, an indigenous and
human rights defender from Manipur. According to the allegations received, on 9 September
2004 at approximately 2.30 p.m., he was arrested without charge by a Manipur police commando
of the Central Reserve Police Force, Indian Reserve Battalion, as he was leaving his residence.
After being threatened with a gun and blindfolded, he was beaten and taken to jail. He suffered
injuries to his head, legs and chest. Umakanta Meitei was reportedly released the same day at
approximately 7.30 p.m. In view of the allegations of detention and ill-treatment, concern is
expressed that he was targeted for his work as a human rights defender and may be at risk of
torture or other forms of ill-treatment.
304. On 17 September 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a letter of
allegation regarding members of the Jangipara branch of the Association for Protection of
Democratic Rights (APDR), a human rights organization in West Bengal working for the
promotion of democratic rights. According to the information received, on 21 August 2004,
human rights defenders from the APDR who had assembled for a peaceful street meeting in
Hooghly to protest alleged State repression, were reportedly attacked at approximately 4.40 p.m.
by 50 or 60 local members of the Communist Party of India (CPIM). It is alleged that they the
human rights defenders were punched, beaten with poles, kicked and verbally abused. Sources
indicate that although a number of people participating in the meeting allegedly rushed to a
police station to seek help, none of the police officers posted nearby came to stop the violence or
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to arrest the perpetrators. It is reported that Sri Amitadyuti Kumar, vice-president of APDR, and
Gautam Munshi, treasurer of the Hooghly District Committee, were among the alleged victims
who were later treated in Walsh Hospital, Srirampur. Concern has been expressed that the
alleged attack on members of the APDR was made to prevent their protest against human rights
violations reportedly carried out by the State.
Communications received
305. By letter dated 23 September 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by
the Special Representative on 15 September 2004 regarding an allegation concerning Umakanta
Meitei. The Government of India wished to express its disagreement with the term “indigenous”
human rights defender, which it believes suggests that the Government recognizes a separate
category of its citizens as “indigenous” people. Similarly, the Government requested an
elaboration of the criteria on which an individual is termed as a “human rights defender”. The
Government promised to make every effort to investigate the allegations on receipt of the
necessary clarifications.
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
306. By letter dated 24 February 2004, the Government replied to an urgent appeal sent jointly
with the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions on 15 September
2003 concerning Teesta Setalvad, Rais Khan Azeezkhan Pathan and Suhel Tirmizi. The
Government informed that the State Government of Gujarat has provided round-the-clock police
protection for Mr. Pathan with effect from 16 September 2003. When Mr. Pathan visits other
parts of the State, concerned authorities will arrange for his protection, provided that he gives
details of his programme in advance. According to the Government, round-the-clock police
protection has been provided for Mr. Tirmizi. On 16 September 2003, Mrs. Setalvad was
requested, to inform the authorities about her programme during the visit to Ahmedabad well in
advance, so that they may arrange for suitable police protection.
307. By letter dated 7 July 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 29 July
2003. The Government informed that, on 7 July 2003, Mr. Ningthoujam Mangoljao, managed to
escape from the police. On 8 July 2003, he was found dead. A team of doctors conducted a post-
mortem, which indicated injuries that Mr. Mangaljao sustained while escaping. According to the
Government, the post-mortem did not suggest any torture by the police. The Government stated
that, on 12 July 2003, Dr. Lamabam Pardesi, gave a press statement concerning the alleged
killing of Mr. Mangaljo. Hence he was summoned to appear at the Lamphel Police Station on 13
July 2003 to establish whether he could give any factual evidence not known to the investigating
officer. According to the Government, Dr. Pardesi could not provide any material evidence to
substantiate the allegations of custodial killing. For similar reasons as mentioned above, the
Lamphel Police Station also summoned Dr. Debabrata Roy Laifungbam on 14 July 2003. The
Government stated that he was summoned under U/s 160 of the Criminal Procedure Code, not
U/s 166 as referred to in the communication sent by the Special Representative. Dr. Laifhngbam
had at the time not responded to the summons. According to the Government, the summons were
not related to the press statement by Dr. Laifhngbam as referred to in the communication sent.
The Government stated that the summons issued by the police U/s 160 of the Criminal Procedure
Code for Dr. Pardesi and Dr. Laifhngbam to appear before the 0/C Lamphel Police Station for
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examination as witnesses in the ease was a natural step and could not be construed as a violation
of their human rights.
Observations
308. The Special Representative thanks the Government for the responses received and hopes
remaining ones will be forthcoming. In the case of Umakanta Meitei, a follow-up to the
response was being drafted at the time of the report. She hopes dialogue can be pursued in
respect to these issues. She wishes to reiterate her concerns, in particular, the allegations of ill-
treatment and possible torture of human rights defenders by various members of the police force.
She also notes with regret the level of impunity enjoyed by the suspected perpetrators of these
cnmes.
Indonesia
Communications sent
309. On 27 January 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Special Rapporteur on the
question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning ilusni Abdullah, age 26, and
Mahyyeddin, age 23, members of the People's Crisis Centre (PCC), an organization which
provides humanitarian assistance to internally displaced persons in Nanggrose Acre Darussalam
province, who are reportedly being detained by police in Nanggrose Acre Darussalam.
According to the information received, on 15 December 2003, Husni Abdullah was arrested by
members of the North Aceh District Military Command (Kodim 0103) at the PCC Office in
Meunasah Mesjid Cunda Village. At the time of his arrest, Husin Abdullah was reportedly
beaten and interrogated by soldiers and his office searched. He was allegedly initially held in
Kodim 0103 and transferred around 3 January 2004 to North Aceh District Police Station
(Kapolres), where he has reportedly been denied access to his family or lawyers. He has
reportedly lost some teeth as a result of being beaten with rifle butts while in detention.
According to the information received, Mahyeddin was also arrested by officers from Kodim
0103 in Sawang Kupala Cunda village on 15 December 2003. He was reportedly also held at
Kodim 0103 before being transferred to Lhokeseumawe prison, where he is believed to have no
access to his family and only limited contact with his lawyers. It is alleged that he has been
beaten while in custody. Both men have allegedly been accused by the police of being members
of the Free Aceh Movement. However, fear has been expressed that Husni Abdullah and
Mahyyeddin may have been targeted for their human rights work. Concern has been expressed
that they may be at risk of torture or other forms of ill-treatment in view of their reportedly
denied or restricted access to their lawyers and relatives and in view of allegations according to
which they have been beaten while in custody.
310. On 25 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Masrizal, Iwan Irama
Putra, a human rights defender age 27, ilarlina, a student and human rights defender aged 2,
Nova Rahayu, a student and human rights defender age 23, Nursida, a student and human rights
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defender age 22, and Syafruddin, a human rights defender. According to information received,
on 19 February 2004, Police Mobile Brigade (Brimob) officers arrested Masrizal at his home in
the Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam provincial capital, Banda Aceh, reportedly on suspicion of being
a member of the armed opposition Free Aceh Movement (GAM). He is believed to be held in
Banda Aceh Regional Police Station. On 22 February, at around 12.30 p.m., Iwan Irama Putra
was reportedly arrested by Brimob at a friend's home in Banda Aceh, and has not been seen
since. He is a member of the Network of Linge Students (IMPEL), based in Central Aceh
District, whose work has included providing assistance to internally displaced people. He was an
acquaintance of Masrizal, and the two arrests are believed to be linked. Early on 23 February,
police allegedly made a series of raids on the homes of members of the Acehnese Democratic
Women's Organization (ORPAD), which carries out activities for women's education and
empowerment in Banda Aceh. They reportedly detained Harlina, a member of IMPEL and
ORPAD, at around 4 a.m. at her home. She was reportedly beaten before being taken away in a
Kijang minivan. She was reportedly last seen approximately two hours later, when police took
her with them to the house of another activist, who was not at home at the time. On the same
date, Nursida and Nova Rahayu, both members of ORPAD, were reportedly arrested at Nursida's
home at around 6 a.m. They were reportedly taken away in two trucks. It is reported that the
police and the military have denied having any information on the three women's whereabouts.
At around 5 a.m. the same day, police reportedly arrived at the student dormitory looking for
Syafruddin, an activist with the educational and human rights organization Student Solidarity for
the People (SMUR). They did not find him, but reportedly questioned and beat other residents of
the dormitory. Syafruddin returned to the dormitory a few hours later and was reportedly beaten
before being taken away by the police.
311. On 2 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and
protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special Rapporteur on the
situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Bestari Raden, a 55-
year-old environmental and pro-democracy activist. On 23 March, he was allegedly arrested by
soldiers from the Aceh Tenggara District Military Command (Kodim 0108) in Lawe Pakam
Village, Babul Makmur Subdistrict, Aceh Tenggara District, Nanggroe Aceh Darussalam
Province. It is alleged he is now held in Kodim 0108 and is undergoing intensive interrogation.
Bestari Raden is reportedly the coordinator of the Environmental Caucus (Kaukus Lingkungan),
whose activities include advocacy and environmental and human rights education. He is
reportedly a member of the Indigenous People's Alliance of the Archipelago (Aliansi
Masyarakat Adat Nusantara/AMAN), which campaigns for the rights of indigenous peoples. It is
reported that Bestari Raden was previously accused of being a leader of GAM. In view of past
allegations of torture and ill-treatment in military custody, concern is expressed that Bestari
Raden may be at risk of torture or other forms of ill-treatment.
312. On 4 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning the order of expulsion delivered to Sidney Jones and Francesca Lawe-
Davies, respectively Southeast-Asia director and analyst at the Jakarta office of the International
Crisis Group (ICG), on 1 June 2004. According to information received, Sidney Jones and
Francesca Lawe-Davies were ordered to leave Indonesia “immediately” because they were in
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violation of immigration laws. The order allegedly follows public statements by the head of the
National Intelligence Agency, General Hendropriyono, that ICG reports were “not all true”, and
“damage the country's image”. It is reported that since establishing its Jakarta office in 2000,
ICG has published 37 reports and briefing papers on conflict-related issues, including Aceh,
Papua, the Jemaah Islamiyah terrorist movement, communal violence and the transition from
military to civilian rule. ICG has allegedly regularly criticized the Indonesian authorities about
their response to the ongoing activity of the militant group Jemaah Islamiyah, as well as the
Government's responsibility for human rights violations during armed conflicts in the provinces
of Aceh and Papua. It is feared that the decision to expel Sidney Jones and Francesca Lawe-
Davies is directly related, inter alia, to their reports on alleged human rights violations. The
decision also raises concerns about the alleged country's measures against critical observers
ahead of the presidential election on 5 July. In this respect, it is reported that the Government has
announced that it has placed 20 international and local NGOs on a “watch list” as threats to the
country's secunty.
313. On 5 August 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent a follow-up letter of allegation concerning Mr.
Muhammad Nazar, leader of the Aceh Information Referendum Centre (Sentral Informasi
Referendum untuk Aceh, SIRA). According to new information received, he was beaten in the
face and kicked in the chest on 19 February 2004 while being questioned by police intelligence
at the Aceh Regional Police Station (Markas Kepolisian Daerah, Mapolda). He was subsequently
denied access to his lawyers and relatives. Dewi Meuthia, his wife, was reportedly questioned
for six hours at the same police station on 27 February 2004 about her campaign to release
Muhammad Nazar and her association with Amnesty International.
314. On 16 August 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the question of torture, sent a letter of allegation concerning Mr. Muzakir Abdullah, a 21-year-
old volunteer for Kontras Aceh, the Commission for Involuntary Disappearances and Victims of
Violence in Aceh. He was arrested at his house in Batee Leusong, Seumirah village, Nisam
District of North Aceh, on 16 June 2004 by a group of military personnel. His dead body was
reportedly found the next day. It is alleged that his neck was scratched and that he presented
wounds all over his body, reported to be the result of torture.
315. On 16 August 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal concerning
Pemraka (Pemuda Mahasiswa Rakyat ke Acheh; Acheh ilumanitarian Volunteer
Association) in Laksana, Banda Aceh. Pemraka is a human rights NGO which assists IDPs and
the victims of the conflict in Aceh. According to the information received, on 7 August 2004,
Banda Aceh police allegedly raided the Pemraka office located at 2 Kongkol Street, Laksana,
arresting two Pemraka aid workers, Asnawi and Fahrizal, along with 11 other individuals from
Banda Aceh who were in the office at the time. All were reportedly arrested on the grounds of
alleged involvement with GAM and harbouring GAM members. It is reported that the majority
of the individuals arrested were victims of war who were receiving medical attention at the
general hospital in Aceh. Reports indicate that seven of the civilians were later released due to
lack of evidence, however the remaining six individuals from Banda Aceh and the two Pemraka
aid workers are still being held for questioning about their alleged involvement with GAM. It
was also reported that on 6 August, following an armed contact between Indonesian troops and
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GAM in Samalanga subdistrict, Fachrurazi, an Pemraka activist and student of Iskandar Thani
College, was arrested by the Brimob of Lyand while he was going to the mountains to rescue a
wounded refugee and take him to the nearest local health facility. He has been missing since
then. Concerns have been expressed that the alleged disappearance of Fachrurazi as well as the
arrests of the Pemraka aid workers, Asnawi and Fahrizal, along with the other eleven civilians
have been carried out in an attempt to hinder the human rights activities carried out by the
organization.
316. On 3 December 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the independence of judges and lawyers, sent an urgent appeal concerning Mr. Munir, a
human rights lawyer, Mrs. Suciwati, his wife, and relatives of Mr. Munir living in Malang, East
Java. As a lawyer, Mr. Munir represented numerous alleged human rights victims, and he also
co-founded the Commission for Disappeared Persons and Victims of Violence (Kontras), a
group that has allegedly exposed the abduction by the military of several human rights activists
in Jakarta. According to the information received, on 7 September 2004, Mr. Munir died during a
flight from Singapore, two hours before arriving at Amsterdam. Mr. Munir was allegedly on his
way to the Netherlands to take part in a course on international human rights law at the
University of Utrecht. Reportedly, the Netherlands Forensic Institute performed an autopsy, and
on 11 November 2004 the Government of the Netherlands transmitted a copy of the forensic
report to Indonesia's Foreign Ministry. The report allegedly indicates that Mr. Munir died from
excessive levels of arsenic in his body, in particular in his stomach. Furthermore, the report
allegedly states that the concentration and location of the arsenic indicates that it had been
slipped into the food or drink he had consumed. The information received indicates that, as of 20
November 2004, Mr. Munir's family had not received a copy of the report from the Government
of Indonesia. The Indonesian police have allegedly started an investigation into Mr. Munir's
death. The information received further indicates that Mrs. Suciwati received a death threat after
she demanded, together with relatives of Mr. Munir, an impartial and thorough investigation into
his death. On 20 November 2004, Mrs. Suciwati reportedly received a brown box through the
post at her home in Bekasi, West Java. It is alleged that the box was filled with a decapitated and
dismembered chicken, along with a note stating: “Be careful!! !!! Do not connect the TNT
[ Indonesian military] to the death of Munir. Do you want to end up like this?” Reportedly, she
immediately contacted the police, who arrived at her house four hours later. It is also reported
that on 9 September 2004, a letter was received by relatives of Mr. Munir in Malang, East Java.
The letter allegedly “congratulated” them with his death, stating that Mr. Munir was a traitor and
expressing wishes that the spirits of the country's heroes pardoned him. Concern is expressed
that the death of Mr. Munir may be a result of his activities to defend human rights, in particular
his work as a lawyer and in connection with his activities for the Commission for Disappeared
Persons and Victims of Violence (Kontras). Furthermore, concern is expressed that the alleged
death threat received by Mrs. Suciwati and the intimidation of relatives of Mr. Munir may be
attempts to prevent an impartial and thorough investigation into his death.
Communications received
317. By letter dated 17 June 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 2 April
2004. The Government confirmed the arrest of Bestari Raden, and stated among other reasons,
it was related to his role in masterminding a rally which degenerated into violence, culminating
in the torching of a timber factory. It fhrther informed that Mr. Raden was suspected of
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involvement in a number of serious crimes since 1999, including murder, instigation of violence
aimed at separatism, subversive activities against the State, threats against public security, arson,
kidnapping, and damage to public property. A thorough inquiry into Mr. Raden's activities was
being conducted responsibly. The Government stated that all the necessary measures were being
taken to ensure the full protection of his rights, and that he had been given due process of law
throughout the duration of his detention. According to the reply, allegations of torture and ill-
treatment were therefore unfounded. Mr. Raden was at the time in the custody of the South Aceh
police headquarters, where he was transferred after one month in the custody of the local Aceh
Tenggara district police station following his arrest. The Government stressed that Mr. Raden
would on no account be detained for any of the normal activities associated with overt and
peaceful support for environmental or democratic causes.
318. By letter dated 25 June 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 4 June
2004. The Government informed that no such thing as an expulsion order was ever issued against
Sidney Jones. Mrs. Jones' resident's visa expired on 10 June 2004, and the question of whether
the Government would extend or not extend the visa was a routine procedure. The Government
stated that it was a gross exaggeration to equate the Government decision with an attempt to
bridle freedom of speech or restrict civil liberties. It also stated that allegations that the
Government reacted negatively to the reports by so-called “critical observers” on the
forthcoming president election were grossly exaggerated, and that they intended to make too
much out of an administrative decision.
Observations
319. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its replies to her communications.
She expresses her hope that replies to her remaining communications will be forthcoming. She
reaffirms her grave concerns about the reported attacks, threats and detention of human rights
defenders in context of the conflict in Aceh. The Special Representative encourages the
Government to review favourably her follow-up request sent on 7 December 2004 for an
invitation to conduct an official visit to the country.
Iran (Islamic Republic of)
Communications sent
320. On 8 December 2003, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the
Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, sent an urgent appeal
concerning Shirin Ebadi, chairwoman of a children rights' organization, the Center of Human
Rights Defenders, and the 2003 Nobel Peace Prize Winner. According to reports, on 3 December
2003, Shirin Ebadi received death threats from militia men allegedly linked to the Hezbollah
while entering the room of the University of Tehran Azzahra where she had been invited to make
a speech on women rights and the right of custody for the mothers. The men reportedly blocked
the entrance door, shouting slogans such as “death to Shirin Ebadi”, and, according to the
information received, she had to hide in the cellar of the university. Fears have been expressed
that her life and physical integrity may be at risk.
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321. On29 January 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Mr. Arzhang Davoodi,
an Iranian citizen age 47, engineer and poet, who was reportedly arrested in July or August 2003
in Tehran by members of the security forces after he gave an interview to the BBC about the
political corruption in Iran. The authorities have reportedly denied his arrest and detention. It was
further reported that since December 2003, Mr. Davoodi would be secretly maintained in solitary
confinement in the Evin prison of Tehran where he has allegedly been victim of ill-treatment and
torture. As a result, he has reportedly lost his vision in the left eye and is in very poor health
condition. Concern has been expressed that Arzhang Davoodi may have been targeted for his
activity in the defence of human rights. Further fears for his life have been expressed.
322. On 10 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and
protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-up urgent appeal
concerning Arzhang Davoodi. Mr. Davoodi, who was reportedly arrested after he spoke in a
television documentary about political prisoners and the death of the Canadian-Iranian
photojournalist Zahra Kazemi, has reportedly been severely beaten in detention and required
several hospitalizations. It is reported that following his arrest, he was taken to Evin prison,
where he was reportedly held in solitary confinement for approximately three and a half months,
during which his relatives had no news about him. According to more recent information
received, the lawyer of Arzhang Davoodi was not able to gain access to him for almost a month
after his appointment in January 2004 and has never been present when Arzhang Davoodi was
interrogated. It is reported that under the Iranian Code of Criminal Procedure, a lawyer's
appointment is not official until the client has signed a document to this effect, and lawyers are
not permitted to be with their clients at interrogations before they are formally charged. Up to
now, it is not known if charges have been brought against Mr. Davoodi, although he is believed
to be accused of being a spy, and working with an unspecified “dark organization” (sazm an-c
siyah).
323. On 24 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special
Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of
physical and mental health and the Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent a follow-
up urgent appeal concerning Arzhang Davoodi. According to more recent information received,
Mr. Davoodi remains in prison, although it is reported that a US$ 59,380 bail was paid, as
requested by the judicial authorities, to secure his release. It is alleged that the authorities have
reportedly refhsed to release him on the grounds that his file is “not complete”. It is also reported
that Arzhang Davoodi was tortured and kept in solitary confinement for 100 days while he was
held in Section 325, a detention facility run by the Revolutionary Guard in Evin prison. During
the winter, for several days he was reportedly kept in a room with the air conditioning turned on
all night, making the room even colder. The alleged torture has reportedly left him with a broken
shoulder blade, bleeding in his left eye, deafness, a broken jaw and teeth, for which a doctor
reportedly assessed that he required treatment of his eyes, ears and teeth, and physiotherapy for
his shoulder. The authorities have allegedly provided him with no treatment to date. Further
information indicates that on 17 March, Arzhang Davoodi was transferred from Salon 1 of Evin
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prison, where he had been detained since his transfer from Section 325 in early March, to Salon
8 of Evin prison, which is reportedly used for people detained for financial offences, and has no
medical facilities. It is reported that prison officials refuse to grant him leave to obtain the
required medical treatment. Finally, it is reported that since his arrest in July or August 2003,
Arzhang Davoodi has been allowed to make phone calls to his lawyer, and to meet with him on
one occasion. However, it is reported that his lawyer has not been able to have a copy of his file,
and it has not been established whether Mr. Davoodi has been formally charged with an offence.
324. On 24 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a letter of
allegation concerning the case of A u Al Chaldawi, a human rights defender who has been
working on behalf of the Iranian Arab minority in Khuzestan and in particular on education
projects to improve literacy rates among Ahwazi Arab children. According to the information
received, Ali Al-Chaldawi was arrested in February 2003 by Iranian security authorities in
Ahwaz. He was reportedly held in detention until August 2003 when he was allegedly charged
with the “establishment of a library and distributing free text books in Arabic to Ahwazi Arab
school children” and sentenced to two and a half years' imprisonment. It is reported that he
appealed his sentencing and on 3 April 2004, the Khuzestan branch of the Iranian Revolutionary
Court of Appeals upheld its decision. Concern has been expressed that the alleged sentencing of
Ali Al Chaldawi may be aimed at preventing him from carrying out his work in defence of the
rights of the Iranian Ahwazi Arabic minority.
325. On 9 July 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special
Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of
physical and mental health and the Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent a follow-
up urgent appeal concerning Akbar Mohammadi, a student who was arrested in early July 1999
during a demonstration. He was sentenced to death in September 1999 but later his sentence was
commuted to 15 years' imprisonment. He is currently being held at Evin prison. According to the
new allegations received, Akbar Mohammadi was subjected to several mock executions during
his first year in prison. During that year, he was also subjected to severe ill-treatment. He was
handcuffed, suspended by his arms, and whipped on the soles of his feet with electric cables. His
beatings allegedly resulted in the loss of 40 per cent of his hearing on his left ear. On one
occasion, he was kicked down a flight of stairs and broke his pelvis. He was allegedly denied
medical treatment and has been unable to walk comfortably since. In November 2003, Akbar
Mohammadi was hospitalized for stomach and kidney problems, including internal bleeding, and
possibly a lung infection. It is alleged that although a hospital doctor recommended a hospital
stay of one month, he was transferred back to Evin prison after six days. His health is said to
have deteriorated since then, as the operation he underwent at that time was reportedly
unsuccessful. A medical report prepared by medical officials in Evin prison allegedly states that
Akbar requires further medical intervention outside the confines of the hospital and a period of
rehabilitation in a suitable environment. Concern has been expressed about his physical and
mental integrity if he does not receive prompt and adequate medical treatment. The urgent appeal
sent on 9 July 2004 also concerned Akbar Mohammadi's brother, Manuchehr Mohammadi, a
member of the Anjoman-e Daneshjuyan va Daneshamuktegan-e M dli (National Association of
Students and Graduates). According to the new allegations received, when his mother visited
him in Evin prison on 5 September 2003, shortly after he had returned there, his face was badly
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bruised, he could hardly walk and told her that he had been tortured. His sentence was extended
by two years at the end of November 2003. According to recent reports, Manuchehr Mohammadi
is currently suffering from gingivitis and chronic severe bleeding from the gums, which is said to
cause him pain when he speaks or eats. Doctors in Evin prison are said to have recommended
that he be treated outside the prison. Concern has also been expressed about his physical and
mental integrity if he does not receive prompt and adequate medical treatment. Finally, the
urgent appeal sent on 9 July 2004 related to information received according to which their
relatives have also been subjected to intimidation and harassment for their efforts to seek
guarantees for the rights of the two detainees. On 8 July 2003, their father, Mr. Muhammad
Muhammadi, and their sister, Simm, were arrested and taken to Evin prison. Simm was
reportedly beaten in front of her father and dragged away. She was held in solitary confinement
for 14 days. She was interrogated for several hours every night and asked about the activities of
her sister Nasrin, who lives in Europe, and her brother Manuchehr. She was allegedly threatened
with further beatings and death. While in custody, she spent five days in prison hospital because
of breathing problems. She was released on bail on 22 July 2003. When Simm was in custody,
her father was reportedly told that she and he would be severely beaten if he kept asking about
her whereabouts. He allegedly suffered a heart attack while kept in solitary confinement. He was
then released on bail. It is fhrther reported that more recently, on 28 June 2004, the family of
Akbar and Manuchehr Mohammadi were threatened again with unspecified reprisals if they
publicly discussed their plight.
326. On 23 August 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent a follow-up urgent appeal concerning Mr. Arzhang
Davoodi. He was arrested in October 2003 after he assisted in the making of a TV documentary
in which he criticized the Iranian authorities. According to recent allegations, Mr. Arzhang
Davoodi has been in solitary confinement for the two last weeks, during which it is reported that
he has not been allowed phone calls or visits from his family and has only been able to meet his
lawyer on one occasion, on 15 August. The visit lasted five minutes. On one occasion, he and 22
other detainees were reportedly kept in a room of 24 m2, without air-conditioning or water. He is
also believed to have been repeatedly subjected to beatings, including more than 500 blows on
his left ear. Although a prison doctor made a formal request to the prison authorities that his left
ear be operated on as soon as possible, the judge responsible for his case refused, allegedly on
grounds that in hospital the detainee would spread the story that he was being treated for injuries
caused by torture in detention. As reflected in previous joint urgent appeals, Mr. Arzhang
Davoodi was due to be released in March 2004 after his family paid bail. However, he was
reportedly told by the judge that the court will not hear his case and that he will not be released
until he signs the confession he has been asked to sign. According to the information received, he
has not been formally charged yet.
327. On 15 November 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Omid Memariyan, a 30-
year-old Internet journalist and civil-society activist working on the training and capacity-
building of country's developing NGO sector. On 10 October 2004, he was arrested at his office
in Tehran. His house was searched by officials of the judiciary and his personal notes and
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computer were confiscated. He is being detained without charge at an undisclosed location,
although he is believed to be held in solitary confinement, under the jurisdiction of Branch 9 of
the Revolutionary Court, in the vicinity of Tehran airport. His family has seen him just once, in a
meeting of four minutes duration, which took place at Branch 9 of the Revolutionary Court.
Omid Memariyan appeared extremely distressed. He has reportedly refused to exercise his right
to appoint a lawyer. In view of his alleged detention in an unknown location, concern is
expressed that he may be at risk of torture or other forms of ill-treatment.
328. On 16 November 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the
independence of judges and lawyers, the Special Rapporteur on the question of torture and the
Special Rapporteur on violence against women, sent a follow-up urgent appeal concerning Ms.
Mahboobeh Abbasgholizadeh, an activist for women's rights, editor of Farzaneh, ajournal for
women's studies, and director of the NGO training centre. According to the information
received, Mahboobeh Abbasgholizadeh was arrested at her home on 1 November 2004 by order
of the Prosecutor General. Since her arrest, she has reportedly been detained and held
incommunicado and denied access to a lawyer or family members. To date, no formal charges
have reportedly been brought against her but she is being interrogated about her presentations at
international meetings, including her address to the Asia Pacific Women's Watch Beijing+10
NGO Forum in July 2004, and her contacts with international women's rights activists. In the
light of the reported subject matter of her interrogations and considering the lack of formal
charges, concern is expressed that the arrest of Mahboobeh Abbasgholizadeh may be aimed at
preventing her from continuing to speak out and publish on women's rights in the Islamic
Republic of Iran.
Communications received
329. By letter dated 10 June 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 29
January 2004, informing that Mr. Arzhang Davoodi had been under medical examination by the
prison doctors as required. He had been examined by an ophtalmologist for dizziness and
headaches while reading, and according to ophtmalmologic and optometric advice, he had been
provided with glasses. The Government further stated that, as a result of an examination by an
otorhinolaryngologist, his left ear has been diagnosed as being slightly impaired, which could be
a sign of previous damage. According to the reply, the medical records indicated that no urgent
treatment for that ear was required and that it would gradually improve.
330. By letter dated 12 August 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 9
July 2004. The Government confirmed that Akbar and Manoochehr Mohammadi are serving
their prison term, and stated that they enjoy required medical care and that they go on leave on
regular intervals. In its reply, the Government informed that there is no record of any detention
of Mr. Mahmood and Ms. Nasrin Mohammadi, father and sister of the above persons.
331. By letter dated 6 October 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 23
August 2004. The Government informed that Mr. Arzhang Davoodi has been charged with
activities against the internal security of the State and sentenced to imprisonment. He had been
temporarily transferred to Rajaee-shahr prison. According to the reply, he had never been in
solitary confinement, and he had recently met with his family.
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332. By letter dated 20 December 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on
15 November 2004. The Government informed that Omid Memariyan was detained for
participating in the establishment of an association against the internal security of the State,
activities against the State and dissemination of false accusations. It stated that he had been
released on bail.
333. By letter dated 20 December 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on
16 November 2004. The Government informed that Ms. Mahboobeh Abbasgholizadeh was
detained for her activities against the State and inspiring immoral acts in tsociety. It stated that
she had been released on bail.
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
334. By letter dated 18 May 2004, the Government replied to the letter of allegation sent
jointly with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of
opinion and expression and the Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers
on 5 December 2003, concerning Mr. Nasser Zarafchan. The Government informed that Mr.
Zarafchan was sentenced to five years' imprisonment for illegal possession of weapons and
disclosure of classified information regarding the trial of the alleged murder of intellectuals. Mr.
Zarafchan is serving his term in Evin prison and he meets with his family and attorney on a
regular basis. The Government stated that on the occasion of the visit of the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression to the country,
it was impossible to schedule a meeting with Mr. Zarafchan due to the short notice.
Observations
335. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its replies. She welcomes the
release on bail of Omid Memariyan and Mahboobeh Abbasgholizadeh. She refers to her main
report to the Commission (E/CN.4/2005/101) for a detailed analysis of the trends in the situation
of human rights defenders in the Islamic Republic Iran and for her observations.
Iraq
Communications sent
336. On 1 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning the situation of Yanar Mohammed, ajournalist campaigning for women's
rights in Iraq, head of the Organisation of Women's Freedom in Iraq, which publishes the Al
Nisa magazine and runs the www.equalityiniraq.com web site. Recently, Ms. Mohammed has
been involved in campaigning against the introduction of the Shariah law in civil matters and
advocated the maintaining of a secular law. According to the information received, she has
reportedly been receiving threats from Jaysh Al-Sahaba (Army of Sahaba), a militia group based
in Baghdad. She reportedly received a first death threat on 31 January 2004. It is reported that
the most recent e-mail she received threatened to kill her within a few days and that she was
warned that if she published the next edition of her Equality newsletter, she would be killed.
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Other members of the Organisation of Women's Freedom in Iraq were reportedly also threatened
in this message.
Observations
337. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication.
Israel
Communications sent
338. On 21 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, issued a press release and sent a
letter of allegation in connection with information received, on 19 May 2004, about a civil
demonstration organized by the residents of Rafah town and refugee camp. It is reported that
thousands of persons marched to protest against a reported operation by Israeli forces, which had
been going on since 17 May 2004, to demolish houses in the Tel Sultan area of Rafah and
allegedly resulted in the death at least 30 civilians. According to the information received, as the
demonstrators were heading towards the Tel Sultan area, the Israeli forces allegedly opened fired
at them with heavy artillery, including machine guns and tanks, at the same time as an Israeli Air
Force helicopter gunship reportedly fired a missile into the crowd. The assault allegedly resulted
in the killing of 10 persons, among which children, and wounding another 50. Six of those killed
have been identified as Walid Naji Abu Qamar, age 10, Mubarak Salim Al Hashash, age 11,
Mahmoud Tareq Mansour, age 13, Mohammed Talal Abu Sha'ar, age 20, Alla Musalam Sheikh-
Eid, age 20, and Fuad Khamis Al-Saqqa, age 31.
339. On 9 August 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the
Chairman-Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, sent an urgent appeal
regarding Abd al-Latif Gheith, a human rights defender and board chairman of Addameer
Prisoner's Support and Human Rights Association, a Palestinian NGO based in Ramallah aiming
to bring to an end the torture of political prisoners. According to the information received, on 29
July 2004 Abd al-Latif Gheith was detained after security guards had reportedly stopped him at a
military checkpoint and questioned him about the activities and staff of the NGO. It is further
reported that on 4 July 2004, the Israeli deputy military commander allegedly issued an order for
the six-month detention of Abd al-Latif Gheith. This order was reportedly issued on the grounds
of “endangering security”and in the absence of any official charge being brought against him.
Concern is expressed that he may be being detained in an attempt to hinder his work with
political prisoners, his human rights activities with Addameer as well as his active participation
in campaigning against Israel's construction of the Wall in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Observations
340. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication.
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Jamaica
Communications sent
341. On 10 March 2004, the Special Representative, jointly with the Special Rapporteur on
extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, transmitted an urgent action regarding a witness
known as “Zepheniah”, as well as members of the community of Burnt Savannah about whom
concerns have been expressed after they witnessed the alleged extrajudicial execution of three
men by members of the Jamaican Constabulary Force on 2 March 2004. Two conflicting
versions of the facts have been brought forward. According to the police, at 9.45 a.m. on 2
March, officers saw a car with several men in it, allegedly “acting suspiciously”. They reportedly
ordered the car to stop. The police claimed that a shootout followed in which they fired in self-
defence, resulting in the death of Evon “Phil” Baker, age 21, Craig Vascianna, age 22, and Omar
“Ted” Graham, age 23. Although the police claimed to have recovered one handgun and one
sawed-off shotgun on the scene, no police officers were reportedly injured in the incident.
However, members of the community of Burnt Savannah vigorously dispute this version.
According to a witness known as “Zepheniah”, the three men were all shot at point-blank range
by the police. Moreover, “Ted”, who was a taxi-driver, reportedly asked the police to spare his
life, but a policeman known as Clarke reportedly told him that they had to kill him as well since
he was a witness and another police officer then allegedly shot him twice. Another witness
reported that the police officers then placed the guns subsequently found on the three men at the
scene of the crime. According to the information received, witnesses of the killings, who later
went to the Frome police station, were all threatened by the police and were afraid to give further
statements. For instance, when “Zepheniah” went to the police station with a crowd of people
from his community who had demonstrated about the killings, a policeman with badge number
20998 allegedly told him that he would shoot him. Another policeman allegedly cranked up his
gun on a close relative of one of the deceased as if he wanted to shoot him. A superintendent was
reportedly present but allegedly did nothing about the policeman's action. It is reported that
when people were demonstrating in the road, policemen allegedly chased them off the street and
fired about twelve shots at them, and that the one known as Clarke mentioned that he had eight
men on his list in Burnt Savannah. It is further believed that when the alleged killings occurred
on 2 March 2004, Clarke actually wanted to eliminate a key witness in a murder case that has
been brought against him in December 2003. In view of the alleged killings and of the several
threats received, fears have been expressed for the safety and for the lives of the witnesses to the
events.
342. On 6 December 2004, the Special Representative, jointly with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, transmitted a
letter of allegation regarding individuals and associations defending the rights of gays and
lesbians in Jamaica, in particular the members of the human rights organization JFLAG
(Jamaican Forum of Lesbians, All-sexuals and Gays). Attention has been drawn to a letter to
the editor by the Jamaican Police Federation's Public Relations Officer, published in the Jamaica
Observer of 25 November 2004. In his letter, which follows the publication on 16 November
2004 of a report by Human Rights Watch entitled “Hated to death: Homophobia, Violence and
Jamaica ‘s HI V/A IDS epidemic “, the Police Federation's Public Relations Officer “condemn [ s]
the role of these so-called ‘human rights' groups to spread lies and deliberately malign and
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slander the police force and the government”. He calls on “the Minister of Justice to examine
these allegations and slap on sedition charges where necessary to both foreign and local agents of
provocation”. In stating that “the Government and the police cannot be held responsible for....
the cultural responses of the population towards gay”, the letter also appears to condone violence
against gays and lesbians. This impression is insufficiently dispelled by the assurance that “as
law enforcement officers we try our utmost ‘to serve, to reassure and to protect”. The letter to
the editor raises particular concerns against the background of reported attacks and threats
against persons defending the rights of homosexual men and women in Jamaica. According to
the information received, on 9 June 2004, Brian Williamson, a well-known gay rights activist,
was murdered at his home. Within an hour after his body was discovered, reportedly a crowd
gathered outside the crime scene. A smiling man called out, “Battyman [ homosexual] he get
killed!” Many others reportedly celebrated Williamson's murder laughing and calling out, “let's
get them one at a time, ““that's what you get for sin, ““let's kill all of them.” Furthermore, it is
reported that JFLAG regularly receives intimidating mail, c-mails and telephone calls. By way of
example, according to the information received, on 16 November 2004 an anonymous male
called JFLAG and said “homosexuals should be dead”. These incidents have been reported in
writing to the Matilda's Corner police station in Kingston on 26 November 2004. In view of the
above, concern is expressed that individuals and associations defending the rights of gays and
lesbians, in particular the members of JFLAG, may be at risk of both attempts by public
authorities to suppress their exercise of free speech and of violent attacks by homophobic
individuals who may have gained the impression that the Government will not vigorously pursue
such violence.
Observations
343. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communications.
Kazakhstan
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
344. By letter dated 22 December 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 5
December 2003. The Government confirmed that on 28 January 2003, the Karasai district court
sentenced Sergey Duvanov to three and half years in prison. It informed that staff from foreign
embassies and representatives of international organizations were allowed to attend the judicial
hearing as observers. In the hearing of the appeals, the Almaty oblast court refused their
attendance because the victim's mother opposed their presence, since the presence of outsiders
seriously violated her rights by broadcasting details of the offence relating to the personal life of
the victim, who was a minor. The Government stated that in August 2003, Mr. Duvanov's
lawyers lodged an appeal with the Supreme Court under the supervisory procedure. The Supreme
Court found no grounds for reviewing the case after hearing the appeal. Concerning the
allegations of lack of fair trial, the Government commented that the evidence of guilt consists of
a consistent and precise testimony by the victim. It was objectively backed up, inter alia, by a
medical forensic examination of the victim that found bodily injuries characteristic of rape.
Moreover, according to the Government, a biological forensic examination indicated that it could
not rule out that sperm found in her sexual organs and on her underwear and dressing-gown was
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Mr. Duvanov's. It indicated in this respect that a DNA test found that the sperm discovered did
belong to Mr. Duvanov. The Government stated that there were no procedural violations, and
that the search of Mr. Duvanov's dacha was conducted in accordance with the rules set out in the
legislation governing criminal procedure. The preliminary investigation was carried out fully and
objectively, and, as the court ruled, the investigating body committed no procedural violations.
Numerous witnesses were questioned, several experts' reports were committed, and numerous
applications by the parties were granted during the preliminary investigation and the court
proceedings. With respect to the mass media, the Government stated that it follows a policy
based on legislative guarantees of the freedom of speech and the freedom to receive and
distribute information and efforts to enhance the legal framework for the activities of the mass
media. It fhrther informed that other principles include placement of official state-funded
material in the mass media in a fair manner and a constructive relationship between the state and
voluntary groups and associations, international organizations and media research institutes.
Observations
345. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its response.
Kyrgyzstan
Communciations sent
346. On 26 July 2004, the Special Rapporteur sent a letter of allegation regarding Ainura
Aitbaeva, daughter of human rights defender Ramazan Dyryldaev, president of the Kyrgyz
Committee for Human Rights, who was the subject of a joint communication by the Special
Representative and the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary and arbitrary executions on
8 May 2003. According to information received, on 3 July 2004, Ainura Aitbaeva was allegedly
attacked and beaten by unidentified individuals in front of her home in the presence of her two
children. She is still in hospital, where she is suffering from concussion. Concern is heightened
by the fact that other similar attacks against family members of human rights defenders have
been reported. It is reported that this is not the first incident of an attack against family members
of human rights defenders. It is alleged that in April 2004, four unidentified men attacked
Chingiz Sydykov, the 21-year-old son of Zamira Sydykova, chief editor of the independent
newspaper Respublika. It is reported that prior to the alleged attack against her son, Zamira
Sydykova had published articles criticizing the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Kyrgyzstan.
Concern has been expressed that the alleged attack against Aitbaeva Ainura may be directly
related to the activities of her father and his work as a human rights defender.
Communications received
347. By letter dated 15 September 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by
the Special Representative on 26 July 2004 with information relating to the case of Ainura
Aitbaeva and Chingiz Sadykov. Following the submission of a formal complaint by Ainura
Aitbaeva, the Government stated that she was requested to undergo a forensic and medical
examination. However, she apparently declined, and as a result no official confirmation of her
assault exists. Consequently, the Ministry of Internal Affairs has decided to discontinue all
investigations and to halt all criminal proceedings due to lack of evidence. Presently, the
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Sverdlovsk District attorney general's office in Bishkek is reviewing these decisions and will
determine whether they should be upheld. In connection with the assault on Chingiz Sadykov,
the Government confirmed that the Oktyabr District of internal affairs had begun criminal
proceedings the following day, 26 April 2004. On 22 May 2004, Arzamat Sagyndykovich
Akhmatov was charged with hooliganism and remanded in custody at a centre in Bishkek. The
case is awaiting a hearing before the Oktyabr district court in Bishkek.
Observations
348. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its response. She welcomes the
steps taken by the authorities but notes with concern their decision to discontinue investigation
into the allegation. She invites the Government to keep her informed of the developments in this
case.
Lebanon
Communciations sent
349. On 23 September 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal concerning
Samira Trad, member of Frontier center, an organization that works on refugee rights in
Lebanon, who has already been the subject of a letter of allegation sent by the Special
Representative on 16 September 2003. According to new information received, following her
detention in September 2003, the General Security directorate sought charges against Ms. Trad
for operating an “illegal organization” and “harming the image of the State”. The Prosecutor
General rejected those charges, including those related to the legal status of the organization.
Instead, he reportedly charged Samira Trad under article 386 of the Penal Code for libel against
the Lebanese authorities in Baabda court. It is reported that to date, the prosecutors have not
specified who was libeled or how, and that no date has been set for a trial.
Communications received
350. By letter dated 12 November 2004, the Government responded to a communication sent
by the Special Representative on 23 September 2004 concerning the legal action taken against
Samira Trad. The Government confirmed that the file regarding the prosecution of Samira Trad
had been deposited with the Baabda criminal court on 11 September 2003. According to the
Office of the Prosecutor General, the appeal hearing has been set for 28 January 2005.
Observations
351. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its response. She remains
concerned about the persisting harassment of Samira Trad and her organization. She notes with
concern the legal action taken against Samira Trad in connection with her activities in favour of
refugees. The Special Representative recalls that the law of libel requires legislators to strike a
delicate balance between the protection of freedom of speech — particularly where this freedom is
exercised in the defence of human rights — and the interests of the persons who are the subject of
derogatory speech. In particular, she invites the Government to consider whether the use of such
laws in against legitimate activities of human rights defenders such a publishing reports,
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correctly strikes this balance. She invites the Government to keep her informed of the
developments in this case.
Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
Communications sent
352. On 21 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal regarding the situation of Fathi El-Jahmi, a human rights defender and recently released
political prisoner, who has reportedly disappeared. According to the information received, Mr. El
Jahmi was sentenced to five years' imprisonment in October 2002, following an address to the
People's Congress in Tripoli during which he reportedly called for democratic and political
reform. He was allegedly not permitted to attend the trial and was reportedly released from
prison on 12 March 2004. According to the information received, following his release, Mr. El-
Jahmi was reportedly subject to 24-hour surveillance and his home phone and electricity supply
were reportedly disconnected. He was also reportedly threatened by members of the
Revolutionary Committee Party, who reportedly stated that they would kidnap his wife and
daughters if he continued to express his views on the human rights situation in the country. On
19 March, it is reported that members of the Revolutionary Committee Party allegedly ransacked
the computer business owned by Mr. El-Jahmi's son. On 4 April 2004, an unidentified security
group allegedly raided the home of Mr. El-Jahmi and took him away to an undisclosed location.
In view of his alleged disappearance, concern is expressed that since he is a diabetic and suffers
from a cardio-vascular disease that requires daily medication, Mr. El-Jahmi may be at risk of
torture or ill-treatment. Concern is also been expressed that he has been targeted for his work in
defence of human rights, and in particular for calling for political reform.
Observations
353. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication.
Malaysia
Communications sent
354. On 8 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning members of Suara Rakya Malayisa (SUARAM), a human rights NGO, and
other participants in a peacefhl demonstration against the misuse of police power. According to
the information received, on 28 February 2004 one hundred people, including members of
SUARAM and of political parties, gathered outside the Bukit Aman Police Station to protest
against the abuse of police powers and in particular, the death of suspects while in police
custody, police shootings, violations of remand procedure and the dispersion of peaceful
assemblies. According to the information received, the demonstrators were reportedly going to
hand a memorandum to the inspector general of the police when the police allegedly intervened,
confiscating the memorandum and ordering the demonstrators to disperse. It is reported that they
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attempted to arrest Fahmi Reza, a member of SUARAM, and when the crowd protested and
demanded his release, members of the police allegedly beat him. The police also reportedly
sprayed chemical-laced water against the crowd. Following this, 17 demonstrators, including
Eric Paulsen, Elizabeth Wong and Fahim Reza of SUARAM, Sivarasa Rasiah, vice-president
of the Malaysian People's Party and Tian Chua, vice-president of the National Justice Party,
were arrested. In the course of their arrest, Tian Chua and Elizabeth Wong allegedly sustained
bruises due to ill-treatment by the police. All those arrested have reportedly been released on bail
and have been requested to report back to the police on 15 March 2004. Concern has been
expressed that the members of SUARAM and other demonstrators may have been arrested for
their human rights activities, in particular their condemnation of the abuse of police powers.
355. On S May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, sent an urgent appeal concerning the
arrest of P. Uthayakumar, a human rights lawyer and of several other people, in particular S.
Jayathas, Ganesan, Dhayalan, Raju, Batumalai, Kanthan, Devarass, Letchumanan,
Nambirajan and Antonyamma, during a demonstration. According to the information received,
on 30 April 2004, a group of 20 people gathered outside the Brickfields police station in Kuala
Lumpur to protest against police brutality, and in particular the alleged death in custody of
Francis Udayapan held in connection with a theft, and to demand to see his body. Riot police
were reportedly waiting outside the police station and while the mother of Francis Udayapan
went inside to lodge a report regarding the alleged death of her son, police with batons reportedly
broke up the demonstration and arrested 11 of the protestors including P. Uthayakumar, S.
Jayathas, Ganesan, Dhayalan, Raju, Batumalai, Kanthan, Devarass, Letchumanan, Nambirajan
and Antonyamma. They were allegedly released on bail shortly afterwards and are required to
report to the police on 15 May when charges may be brought against them. Concern has been
expressed that P. Uthayakumar and other demonstrators may have been targeted for their human
rights activities, in particular their condemnation of the alleged death of suspects in police
custody.
356. On 13 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special
Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers and the Special Rapporteur on
extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, sent a follow-up urgent appeal concerning the
situation of P. Uthayakumar. According to the information received, P. Uthayakumar has
worked on behalf of victims of alleged police brutality and is currently representing the family of
Francis Udayapan. It is reported that he has received numerous threatening phone calls related to
his work and on 8 May 2004, his brother Wanytha Moorthy reportedly received a call on his
mobile phone from an anonymous caller who reportedly stated that his brother should “not fool
around with the police” and further stated that if he did not heed this warning, he would be
killed. In this context and according to the information received, on 11 May 2004 Mr.
Uthayakumar was driving along Jalan Medang in Bangsar when a motorcycle reportedly began
to trail his car. A short time later, he was reportedly blocked by three or four cars. The driver of
one of the cars reportedly alighted from his vehicle and approached the car of Mr. Uthayakumar
with a sledgehammer, allegedly smashing the windscreen and the driver's side window. It is
reported that the driver of the motorcycle then pointed a gun at him following which Mr.
Uthayakumar allegedly jumped out of the door of his car on the passenger's side and managed to
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escape his assailants. He reportedly suffered injuries to his face, hands, legs and back during the
incident. Immediately after the alleged attack, he reportedly filed a complaint at Brickfields
police station. Reportedly, he has filed a number of reports to the police about threatening calls
that he has received in the past but to date, no action by the police has been taken. Concern has
been expressed that Mr. Uthayakumar is being targeted for his human rights activities and in
particular his work to defend victims of police brutality.
357. On 7 July 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special
Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers and the Special Rapporteur on
contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, sent a
follow-up urgent appeal concerning the safety of Mr. Uthayakumar who has received new
threats on two occasions. On 20 May 2004, he was assaulted at gunpoint by persons believed to
be members of the Royal Malaysian Police Force. He sought temporary asylum in the United
Kingdom and returned to Malaysia on 13 June 2004, with the assurances of the Government of
Malaysia that his safety would be guaranteed. Information indicates that since his return, his
Uthayakumar's office has been repeatedly visited by the Royal Malaysian Police Force, for
which he has lodged a complaint with the police. The officer in charge of the police district of
Brickfields has since lodged a police report against Mr. Uthayakumar for alleged criminal
defamation of the police. On 29 June 2004, Mr. Uthayakumar found an envelope in his letter box
containing a bullet in a plastic casing and a note written on tracing paper using letters from
newspaper cuttings and reading “Lu Puki mak, suka Timbulkan sentimen perkauman, Lu mati
sikit-sikit nanti gampang” (you son of a gun, like to raise racial issues, you will die slowly
eventually, fool).
358. On 26 October 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, sent a follow-up urgent appeal
concerning the continued harassment of Mr. Uthayakumar. According to the information
received, in a letter dated 21 June 2004, the director-general of income tax informed him that he
was not allowed to leave the country since he allegedly owed income tax. On 16 July, he paid
this amount and subsequently sent three letters asking for a certificate of release that would
enable him to travel abroad again, which he has not yet received. It is further reported that on 9
September 2004, Mr. Uthayakumar was arrested at his law firm in Kuala Lumpur and brought to
Brickfields police station and the Kuala Lumpur Magistrates Court Police Headquarters at Jalan
Hang Tuah. Reportedly, he was required to provide a statement in relation to the proceedings
opened against him on charges of defaming the police. According to the information received,
these charges result from statements he made after he was attacked on 10 May 2004, in which he
voiced his suspicion that high-ranking police officers were involved in the attack. He was
released four hours after the arrest. Concern remains that the alleged harassment of Mr.
Uthayakumar is a response to his efforts to publicize alleged human rights abuses by the Royal
Malaysian Police Force, and to his work as a lawyer representing a number of clients from the
Indian minority in Malaysia.
Communications received
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359. By letter dated 14 June 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 5 May
2004 concerning Mr. Uthayakumar, S. Jayathas, Ganesan, Dhayalan, Raju, Batumalai,
Kanthan, Devarass, Letchumanan, Nambirajan and Antonyamma. The Government
informed that, on 29 April 2004, the Royal Malaysian Police received a fax concerning plans of
the demonstration referred to in the communication sent by the Special Representative. It stated
that between 30 and 40 people took part in the demonstration. When the demonstrators reached
the gates of the Brickfields police station, police officers warned the group to disperse since a
demonstration without a legal permit is considered an illegal assembly. The police informed that
only those who intended to lodge a police report would be allowed into the police station, and
only the mother of Francis Udayapan and a lawyer did so. According to the Government, after
several warnings by the police, 12 people who refused to disperse were arrested. The arrests
were based on section 27 of the Police Act 1967 for the offence of convening an illegal
assembly. The Government indicated that on 30 April 2004, those who were arrested were
released on police bail. The police would continue their investigations. According to the reply,
the concern expressed that some members of the demonstrators were specifically targeted for
arrest is groundless.
360. By letter dated 23 June 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 8
March 2004 concerning Eric Paulsen, Elizabeth Wong, Fahim Reza, Sivarasa Rasiah, Tian
Chua and Suara Rakya Malayisa (SUARAM). The Government informed that police officers
had received information that a group of demonstrators intended to gather in front of police
headquarters in Bukit Aman for the primary purpose of submitting a memorandum to the
authorities. The police agreed to allow three representatives of the demonstrators to enter the
police headquarters to formally hand over the memorandum to the Officer-in-Charge. According
to the reply, the demonstrators insisted that 10 of them should be allowed to enter. The police
stood by their earlier decision since three representatives would likely create less upheaval
within the building and still serve the primary purpose of the demonstration. The Government
indicated that at the same time, police officers requested the demonstrators outside the olice
headquarters to disperse, since such a gathering would require a police permit obtained in
advance under section 27 of the Police Act 1967. It stated that after the demonstrators repeatedly
ignored these requests, 17 demonstrators were arrested on the charge of convening an illegal
assembly. They were released the same day on police bail. The Government indicated that at no
time was force used to either detain or keep them in custody.
361. By letter dated 7 October 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeals sent on 13
May 2004 and 7 July 2004. The Government confirmed that Mr. Uthayakumar lodged a
complaint concerning the assault referred to in the communication sent on 13 May 2004. It stated
that in this report, lodged on 10 May 2004, Mr. Uthayakumar accused the police of being behind
the incident. The Government mentioned that an investigation had been launched under sections
324, 427 and 506 of the Penal Code, and that no arrests had been made so far. According to the
Government, the investigation has been hampered due to Mr. Uthayakumar's refhsal to give
police statements under section 112 of the Criminal Procedure Code. On 17 June 2004, he was
subpoenaed under this section in an effort to record his statement for further investigation into
the case. Despite acknowledging receipt of the subpoena, Mr. Uthayakumar did not turn up at the
police station. The Government informed that on 27 August 2004, the Kuala Lumpur Magistrates
Court issued a warrant to ensure Mr. Uthayakumar's compliance under section 111 (2) of the
Criminal Procedure Ordinance. On 9 September 2004, he was picked up by the police for his
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statement to be recorded and was released the same day. According to the reply, there exists no
evidence to prove that the incidents involving Mr. Uthayakumar had any connection with the
police, or were the direct result of Mr. Uthayakumar's work to discredit the police force.
362. By letter dated 22 December 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on
26 October 2004. The Government reiterated its response dated 7 October 2004, by which it
explained the reason behind the arrest of Mr. Uthayakumar on 9 September 2004. The
Government stated that it failed to see how the execution of a warrant issued by the country's
independent judiciary for Mr. Uthayakumar's failure to respond to a subpoena can possibly be
construed as a violation of his basic human rights. With regard to the restriction on Mr.
Uthayakumar's travels abroad, the Government informed that the restriction remains as long as
the amount he owes to the Inland Revenue Board is not settled in full, pursuant to subsection 104
(1) of the Malaysian Immigration Department's Suspected List. According to the reply, in order
for Mr. Uthayakumar to be allowed to travel overseas again, he would need to submit a Release
Letter to the Immigration Department from the Inland Revenue Board, which will state, inter
alia, that he has paid his arrears in full.
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
363. By letter dated 4 March 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent jointly
with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion
and expression and the Special Rapporteur on violence against women on 6 November 2003.
The Government confirmed that on 16 October 2003, the Kuala Lumpur magistrates court
convicted Irene Fernandez of maliciously publishing false news, and that here one-yearjail
sentence had been stayed pending appeal. It informed that, in 1996, when Ms. Fernandez was
first charged, the court ordered her to surrender her passport, a routine procedure in cases where
there is flight risk. Her passport has since expired, and her application for a new passport has
been denied on the grounds that the case is still under due process of law since Ms. Fernandez
has filed an appeal to the High Court.
Observations
364. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its numerous replies. She remains
gravely concerned with the reported persistant harassment of Mr. Uthayakumar, including
death threats and assaults. The Special Representative takes note of the Government's
explanation of the administrative and judicial proceedings against him. With respect to the
persistant restrictions on Mr. Uthayakumar's movement, she acknowledges that as outlined in the
Government's replies, the authorities appear to have strictly applied the legislation governing the
non-payment of taxes. The Special Representative regrets to note, however, that the
Government's reply in relation to this issue does not dispel the concerns she raised in
communication. She observes that freedom of movement represents an internationally
recognized basic freedom and invites the Government to consider whether national laws
providing for its curtailment for non-payment of taxes may not be incompatible with the
international norms in this respect. She thus encourages the Government to consider other means
than restricting Mr. Uthayakumar's basic right to freedom of movement to address his reported
failure to pay his taxes in full. She encourages the Government to reply favourably to her request
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sent on 8 July 2002 and reiterated on 2 December 2004 for an invitation to conduct an official
visit to the country in 2005.
Maldives
Communications sent
365. On 6 October 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Chairman-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the
independence of judges and lawyers, the Special Rapporteur on torture and the Special
Rapporteur on violence against women, sent an urgent appeal regarding Mr. Ismail Asif and Ms.
Jennifer Latheef, respectively employee of a television company and video film producer, both
of whom have been working to draw attention to human rights concerns. According to the
information received, Ismail Asif, who is also an activist for the political opposition, was
arrested at his home at around 10 p.m. on 17 September 2004. He is reportedly being held
without charges and was not allowed access to a lawyer. It is reported that he is being questioned
about organizing a peacefhl political meeting in July 2004, which was disguised as birthday
party. It was also alleged that he was arrested because of his involvement in a civil society
network that monitors the conditions of detention of those arrested following the August
demonstrations to ensure their human rights are protected. From mid-August 2004 until his
arrest, Ismail Asif had been interviewing those who had been released from detention to
document human rights violations against detainees and has been helping families of the
detainees to draft letters to the authorities requesting the right to visit. According to information
received, Jennifer Latheef, who has particularly focused her work on the prevalence of sexual
abuse in the country, was reportedly arrested in front of the National Security Services on 13
August 2004, when a demonstration was broken up with baton charges and tear gas. She is
reportedly being detained at the Dhoonidhoo interrogation centre and was denied access to
family members until 17 September 2004. It was also reported that, during her detention, the
police kicked her in the back numerous times whilst she was blindfolded. She was reportedly
detained a first time on 22 September 2003 for her part in a protest regarding the killing of Evan
Naseem on the 19 September 2003 and the killing of three other prisoners and fatal injury of
others on 20 September 2003 in Maafushi Jail.
Communications received
366. By letter dated 27 October 2004, the Government responded to a communication sent by
the Special Representative on 6 October 2004 regarding Jennifer Latheef and Ismail Asif. The
Government informed the Special Representative that the aforementioned had both been
arrested, on 13 and 17 August 2004 respectively, in connection with the investigation into the
mob violence of 12-13 August 2004. According to the Government, the investigation of Jennifer
Latheef had been completed and as a result, she has been under house arrest since 26 October
2004. The Government indicated that in accordance with the law, charges would be filed against
her shortly. The Government assured tha, in conformity with the rights of all citizens, the
accused would receive a fair and impartial trial. Regarding the situation of Ismail Asif, the
Government stated that the investigation remained open. The Government assured that on
completion Ismail Asif would be promptly released or charged. The Government declared that
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all detainees in the Dhoonidhoo centre were given adequate access to family visits, legal counsel
and medical assistance. Concerning the accusations of torture and ill-treatment, the Government
stated that the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives had been ordered to undertake an
investigation. Once the final conclusions have been made, the Government promised to take the
appropriate legal action against any possible guilty parties. The Government emphasized its
commitment to human rights and highlighted the agreement signed with the International
Committee of the Red Cross on 5 October 2004, and the visit by a two-member delegation from
Amnesty International on 10 October 2004.
Observations
367. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its reply. She welcomes the
Government's clarifications on both cases and the investigations carried out into the allegation.
She observes however that the Government's response has not dispelled her concerns about
allegations of arbitrary detention and arrest of the human rights defenders in question. In
particular, she calls on the Government to either bring charges or immediately release both
individuals.
Mauritania
Communications envoyées
368. Le 2 decembre 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special
sur la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, le Rapporteur
special sur les executions extrajudiciaires, sommaires ou arbitraires et la Rapporteuse speciale
chargee de la question de la violence contre les femmes, a envoyc un appel urgent concernant
neuf femmes membres du Collectif des familles de detenus, Mmes El Moumne Mint Mohamed
Elemine, Raky Fall, Khadijetou Mint Maghlah, Teslem Mint Oumar, Mariem Mint Neyni,
Fatimetou Mint Khaya, Mariem Fall Mint Chenouve, Meye Mint ilamady et Fatma Mint
ilamady. Selon les informations reçues, sept d'entre elles auraient etc arrétees le 21 novembre
2004 par la gendarmerie, lors de l'ouverture de la premiere audience du <>, presumes auteurs de la tentative des coups d'Etat des 8 et 9 juin 2003, dont elles
seraient les proches. Elles auraient etc conduites a la brigade d'Ouad Naga oü elles auraient etc
parquees sous le soleil et a méme le sol pendant toute la journee du 21 novembre. Mmes Meye
Mint Hamady et Fatma Mint Hamady auraient quant a elles etc arretees le 22 novembre 2004,
alors qu'elles protestaient contre des gendarmes qui semblaient vouloir maltraiter une femme
agee a la sortie de la salle d'audience. Le méme jour, Mme Mariem Mint Neyni, enceinte, aurait
etc liberee mais aurait, de nouveau, etc arretee le 29 novembre au soir. Sans avoir etc informees
des motifs de leur arrestation, elles auraient etc interrogees a plusieurs reprises sur les raisons
pour lesquelles deux membres du Collectif participaient a la 36 e session de la Commission
africaine des droits de l'homme et des peuples (CADHP). Le 30 novembre 2004, aprCs avoir
finalement etc accusees de <> et de <>, elles auraient etc
transferees a la prison des femmes de Nouakchott. Toutes les autorisations de visite demandees
par leurs proches auraient etc refusees. Mme Raky Fall, enceinte, souffrirait depuis le debut de sa
detention de douleurs dans la poitrine. En raison de leur detention au secret, des craintes ont etc
exprimees sur l'integrite physique et psychologique de ces femmes, et notamment Mme Raky
Fall qui se trouve dans un etat de sante fragile.
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Communications reçues
369. Par lettre datée du 6 janvier 2005, le Gouvernement a répondu a l'appel en date du
2 décembre 2004. Le Gouvernement a indiqué que les individus en question avaient été arrétés
pour avoir commis des actes délictucux, notamment outrage a magistrat et menace de mort scion
les articies 204 et 281 du Code pénai. Le Gouvernement a affirmé que ces femmes avaient été
informécs des raisons de icur arrestation et traitécs avec humanité et a rejeté ics aiiégations
d'atteinte a icur intégrité physique, de méme que ceiies reiatives a icur absence d'accês a icurs
famiiies et avocats. Le Gouvernement a par aiiieurs affirmé que ics normes internationaics des
droits de i'homme ne pouvaient être invoquées pour icur defense au vu des actes déiictueux
qu'eiies auraient commis. Enfin, ic Gouvernement a indiqué que ces femmes auraient bénéficié
d'une hberté provisoire et qu'eiies devraient se presenter iors de icur procés.
Observations
370. The Speciai Representative thanks the Government for its response to her
communication. She weicomes the reported provisionai reicase of the individuai concerned and
iooks forward to remaining informed about this case.
Mexico
Comunicaciones enviadas
371. Ei 13 de enero de 2004, ia Representante Especiai enviô un iiamamiento urgente con
respecto a ia situaciôn de Arturo Soils y otros miembros de Ia organización de derechos
humanos Centro de Estudios Fronterizos y de Promoción de los Derechos ilumanos
(CEFPRODIIAC) y tambien de los familiares de José Antonio Cervantes Espeleta (victima
de asesinato) quienes habrian sufrido una serie de amenazas y actos de intimidacion. Segün ia
informacion recibida, José Antonio Antonio Cervantes Espeieta habrla desaparecido ci 13 de
diciembre de 2003 en ia ciudad de Reynosa. Las fhentes de ia investigaciôn habrian asegurado a
ia famiiia que ci Sr. Cervantes Espeieta “habria decidido desaparecer” y que se encontraba vivo y
sano. No obstante, su cadaver habria sido haiiado ci 26 de diciembre. Segün ios informes,
CEFPRODHAC habr la denunciado pübiicamente ia aparente incoherencia e inadecuada
investigaciôn iniciai por io cuai, ci director de ia pohcia judiciai dci Estado ios acusô de
difamacion. No obstante ante ia aparente negativa de investigar exhaustivamente ci caso, ci 4 de
enero ci presidente de CEFPRODHAC, Arturo Soils, habria sohcitado en varios periodicos
regionaics a ias autoridades que investigaran ia supuesta impiicacion de ia poiicia en ci secuestro
y asesinato de éste y de ios otros casos de secuestro ocurridos en ci norte dci Estado de
Tamauiipas. Ai dia siguiente, un desconocido habr la teiefoneado a ias oficinas de
CEFPRODHAC y habria dicho “ya cáiiense ci hocico”. Segün ios poiicias que investigan ci caso
en Nueva Leon, donde vivia ia victima, eiios tambiCn habrian recibido amenazas. Ei 4 de enero
ia fiscaila de Tamauiipas habria anunciado ia detenciOn de cuatro personas - entre eiios
miembros en actividad y exmiembros de ia poiicia judiciai dci Estado y de ia poiicia preventiva -
en reiaciOn con ci caso. Asimismo, segün informes, ci principai sospechoso, un agente en
actividad de ia poiicia judiciai dci Estado, habria huido.
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372. El 23 de enero de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
promociôn del derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn, enviO un llamamiento urgente con
respecto a la situaciOn de MartIn Barrios llernández. Segün la informaciOn recibida, el dIa 30
de diciembre de 2003 a las 9.30, MartIn Barrios Hernandez estuvo a punto de entrar en su casa
cuando un individuo se le habria acercado y le habrIa dicho “Fernando, ya deja de estar
chingando”. D c acuerdo con la informaciOn, el individuo habria golpeado a Martin Barrios
Hernández en la cabeza y en la espalda con un a ladrillo y al tratar de defenderse, el individuo le
habria dado pufletazos en la cara y los brazos y le habrIa dado una patada en el estOmago. Luego
el individuo habria huido en un taxi que lo habria aguardado al otro lado de la calle. Herido a la
cabez, Martin Barrios Hernández habrIa sido trasladado a un centro de la Cruz Roja para recibir
primeros auxilios y el mismo dia, habria denunciado el incidente ante el Ministerio Püblico de
Tehuacan. Esta agresiOn habria precedido una serie de amenazas recibido por Martin Barrios
Hernández. Se teme que las amenazas y la agresiOn estén relacionadas con su trabajo como co-
ordenador de la ComisiOn de Derechos Humanos y Laborales del Valle de Tehuacan que ha
apoyado a trabajadores despedidos de fabricas de pantalines vaqueris y otras pequeflas maquilas
en Tehuacan. En enero de 2003 la ComisiOn de Derechos Humanos y Laborales del Valle de
Tehuacan produjo conjuntamente con la organizaciOn Red de Solidaridad de la Maquila, con
sede en Canada, un informe sobre la situaciOn de los trabajadores (principalmente mujeres
indigenas) empleados en las diversas fábricas de tejido en el valle de Tehuacan y los problemas
que enfrentan, que incluyen salarios bajos, largas jornadas de trabajo, restricciones a la
formaciOn de sindicatos, mano de obra infantil y peligros para la salud a causa de los productos
quimicos utilizados en las lavanderias, asi como problemas medioambientales causados por las
m aquilas.
373. El 24 de febrero de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre
la promociOn y la protecciOn del derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, enviO un
llamamiento urgente con respecto a la situaciOn del General José Francisco Gallardo, cx
general del ejército mexicano y defensor de los derechos humanos. Segün la informaciOn, en
octubre de 1993 el General José Francisco Gallardo publicO en la revista Forum un articulo
titulado “Las necesidades de un ombudsman militar en Mexico” en el cual proponia la creaciOn
del cargo de defensor del pueblo para las fuerzas armadas para examinar las acusaciones de
violaciones de derechos humanos cometidas por el personal militar. Tambien considerO
inconstitucionales los poderes especiales del ejército, proponiendo ponerles fin. El 9 de
noviembre de 1993 habria sido detenido por delitos de malversaciOn, fraude y daflos a la
propiedad militar, de los cuales ya habia sido exonerado aflos atrás. En marzo de 1998, le habrian
condenado a 28 aflos y 8 meses de cárcel y le habrIan quitado los grados militares. En diciembre
de 1998, el Grupo de Trabajo de las Naciones Unidas sobre la DetenciOn Arbitraria emitiO una
opiniOn sobre el caso del General Gallardo en la cual afirmO que el motivo de la privaciOn de
libertad del General era el del ejercicio legitimo de su libertad de expresiOn y opiniOn. Fue
liberado el 7 de febrero de 2002, dos semanas antes de la reexaminaciOn de su caso por la Corte
Interamericana de Derechos Humanos. Segün la nueva informaciOn recibida, el 17 de enero de
2004, un periOdico nacional habria citado al General José Francisco Gallardo que habria
criticado el nombramiento de un general del ejército para la unidad antiterrorista de la
Procuradurla General de la Repüblica. El 19 de enero 2004, habria recibido una llamada
telefOnica en la cual un presunto miembro del ejército le habr la dicho “cuidate porque te van a
cargar”. Desde la llamada, el General Francisco Gallardo habria visto vehiculos desconocidos
cerca de su casa vigilando sus movimientos. Habria denunciado ambos incidentes ante la
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Procuradurla General de Justicia del Distrito Federal. Se teme que esta amenaza esté relacionada
con su actividad de denunciar las violaciones de derechos humanos cometidas por las fuerzas
armadas mexicanas.
374. El 24 de febrero de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre
el derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn, enviO un llamamiento urgente con respecto a
la situaciOn de Arturo Soils, Presidente del Centro de Estudios Fronterizos y de PromociOn de
los Derechos Humanos. La Representante Especial en su carta del 13 de enero de 2003, ya habia
expresado su preocupaciOn por las amenazas que éste habria recibido al principio de este aflo.
Segün la nueva informaciOn recibida, el 4 de febrero de 2004, Arturo Solis habria recibido otra
llamada anOnima cuyo autor le habria amenazado gravemente. Segün las informaciones
recibidas, el individuo habria pronunciado las palabras “deja de estar chingando o le va a llevar
la chingada”. Se temen que estas presuntas amenazas de muerte estén relacionadas con el trabajo
de Arturo Solis a favor de los derechos humanos, en particular el de denunciar la presunta
implicaciOn de la policia mexicana en asesinatos y secuestros ocurridos en el norte del Estado de
Tamaulipas, y con las varias declaraciones püblicas realizado con respeto a la presunta
responsabilidad de la policia mexicana en el asesinato del empresario José Antonio Cervantes
Ezpeleta, ocurrido en diciembre de 2003.
375. El 24 de marzo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre el
derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, enviO un llamamiento urgente sobre la situaciOn
del Comité de Derechos ilumanos, una organizaciOn que brinda ayuda humanitaria y refugio a
migrantes en el Estado de Tabasco, y en particular su representante Fray Bias Aivarado. Segün
la informaciOn recibida, en octubre de 2003 un desconocido habria acercado al esposo de un
integrante del Comité de Derechos Humanos en Pueblo Nuevo y, refiriéndose a Fray Blas
Alvarado, le habria dicho “al curita lo tenemos fichado y pronto va a caer”. Segün la
informaciOn, el 6 de febrero de 2004, la secretaria del Comité de Derechos Humanos en
Tenosique habria encontrado en la oficina un papel que habria dicho, “Cuidense, los estamos
vigilando.” El papel habria venido amarrado en la cola de una iguana, la cual se habria
encontrado escondida dentro de una bolsa de plastico. Se teme que esta amenaza esté relacionada
con la actividad de derechos humanos del Comité de Derechos Humanos y en particular la de
denunciar püblicamente el trato de los migrantes y las posibles redes de corrupciOn que
favorecen a los traficantes de indocumentados.
376. El 2 de junio de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
promociOn del derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, el Relator Especial sobre la
situaciOn de los derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentales de los indigenas y la Relatora
Especial sobre ejecuciones extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias, enviO un llamamiento urgente
en relaciOn con Lucia Genaro Linares, Erika Gonzáiez Genaro, Eiisabeth Gonzáiez Genaro
y Adriana Rubio Jorge. Segün las informaciones recibidas, estas personas habrian sido
amenazadas después de presentar una denuncia oficial contra las autoridades municipales de
Zapotitlan Tablas, Estado de Guerrero. Los informes indican que la denuncia habria sido
presentada tras la supuesta muerte bajo custodia, en enero de 2004, de un miembro de la familia
Genaro, SOcrates Tolentino Gonzalez Genaro. Segün la informaciOn recibida, SOcrates Tolentino
Gonzalez Genaro, de 18 aflos, habria sido detenido el 14 de enero de 2004 en Zapotitlán Tablas
por agentes de la policia municipal que lo habrian llevado a la cárcel municipal. Al dia siguiente,
las autoridades municipales habrian dicho a su madre, Lucia Genaro Linares, que éste se habia
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suicidado en la prisiôn. Tras la muerte de su hijo, Lucia Genaro Linares habria firmado, por
instrucciôn del sindico municipal, unos documentos oficiales, despues de que el sindico
municipal le habria dicho que las autoridades pagarian los gastos del fhneral. Los informes
indican que el 17 de enero de 2004, la hija de Lucia Genaro, Erika Gonzalez Genaro, habria
descubierto que su madre habia renunciado involuntariamente al derecho de la familia a que se
realizara una autopsia, y habia declarado que su hijo intentaba suicidarse. Ante el intento de
encubrimiento, la familia, con la ayuda de una organizaciôn local de derechos humanos, habria
conseguido que se exhumara el cadaver de Socrates. El 10 de marzo de 2004, un examen forense
habria concluido que eljoven habia sido brutalmente golpeado y se habia muerto a consecuencia
de las lesiones sufridas, que incluian dos fracturas de cráneo, una fractura en una costilla
derecha, fractura de la tibia izquierda y fractura del esternOn. Lucia Genaro habria presentado
posteriormente una denuncia ante el ministerio püblico de Tlapa, Estado de Guerrero, contra
varias autoridades municipales, entre las que se encontrarian el presidente municipal, el sindico
municipal y tres agentes de la policia municipal de Zapotitlan Tablas. Segün indican los
informes, desde que se habria presentado la denuncia, Lucia Genaro y otros familiares habrian
sido intimidados en varias ocasiones. En una de ellas, el sindico municipal habria amenazado a
Lucia diciendo: “te vamos a matar si note callas”. El 22 de abril de 2004, varios agentes de la
policia preventiva municipal que viajaban en un vehiculo habrian apuntado con sus armas a las
hermanas de SOcrates, Erika y Elizabeth Gonzalez Genaro, asi como a su tia, Cesarea Linares, en
Zapotitlan Tablas. El 3 de mayo de 2004, tres policias municipales habrian gritado “señora
pendeja” a Lucia Genaro en la calle y le habrian dicho que no hiciera nada sobre la muerte de su
hijo. Erika Gonzalez Genaro habria dejado de ir a la escuela por temor por su propia seguridad.
La novia de SOcrates, Adriana Rubio Jorge, tambien habria sido acosada cuando, el 7 de mayo de
2004, a las tres de la madrugada, dos agentes municipales habrian pasado por delante de su casa
y habrian arrojado piedras al tejado del edificio.
377. El 9 de junio de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
promociOn y la protecciOn del derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, enviO un
llamamiento urgente sobre la situaciOn de Isidro Baldenegro y ilermenegildo Rivas,
defensores de derechos humanos y ecologistas que trabajan a favor de los derechos de la
comunidad de indigenas raramuri y en particular para poner fin a la explotaciOn maderera no
regulada de tierra forestales. Segün la informaciOn recibida, el 29 de marzo de 2003, agentes de
la Policia Judicial del Estado habrian detenido a Isidro Baldenegro y Hermenegildo Rivas sin
orden judicial en la comunidad de Coloradas de Virgen en el Estado de Chihuahua. Se habrian
acusado a ambos de posesiOn ilegal de armas e Isidro Baldenegro habria sido acusado de
posesiOn de marihuana. El 7 de abril de 2003, eljuez del Juzgado Penal del Distrito Judicial de
Hidalgo habria ordenado la detenciOn preventiva de ambos. Segün los informes, numerosos
testigos habrian declarado que las pruebas contra ambos habrian sido falsificadas supuestamente
por orden del cacique local y en junio de 2003, la ComisiOn Estatal de Derechos Humanos de
Chihuahua habria dicho al Procurador General de Justicia del Estado de Chihuahua que
investigara a los agentes implicados. En este contexto y segün la informaciOn recibida, en abril
de 2004 la unidad de asuntos internos de la Procuraduria General del Estado de Chihuahua
habria concluido que siete agentes de la policia judicial habrian sido responsables de falsificar las
pruebas contra Isidro Baldenegro y Hermenegildo Rivas y habria iniciado procedimientos
penales contra ellos en los tribunales estatales. Segün la informaciOn recibida, a pesar de que se
habria demostrado que los cargos contra los dos hombres habrian sido falsificados, el fiscal
federal no los habria retirado y habria seguido pidiendo que ambos sean condenados. Segün los
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informes, ci veredicto judicial de su caso seria inminente. Se teme que la supuesta detencion
arbitraria y las pruebas faisas contra Isidro Baidenegro y Hermenegildo Rivas representen una
manera de impedir sus actividades de defender los derechos de su comunidad.
378. El 12 de agosto de 2004, la Representante Especial junto con ci Relator Especial sobre ci
derecho ala libertad de opinion y de expresiOn, enviO una carta de alegaciOn. El 13 de mayo de
2004, ci periodista y corresponsal de Cimacnoticias en Chiapas, Manuel de Ia Cruz, habrIa sido
secuestrado y goipeado por unos 20 policIas municipales en Tuxtia Gutiérrez. Manuel de la Cruz
habrIa presentado una queja ante la ComisiOn Estatal de Derechos Humanos (CEDH) ci 13 de
mayo de 2004. La CEDH ic habrIa ofrecido medidas precautorias para ei y su compaflera Laura
Matus. Se teme que estos hechos estén relacionados con las denuncias pübiicas de Manuel de la
Cruz respecto a violaciones de derechos humanos que habrIan ocurrido durante ci conflicto
indIgena de Los Altos.
379. El 19 de agosto de 2004, la Representante Especial enviO un ilamamiento urgente sobre
la situaciOnde Pedro RaW Lopez llernández, Ombudsman chiapaneco y presidente de la
ComisiOn de Derechos Humanos dci Estado de Chiapas, cuyo caso ya fue objeto de dos previas
comunicaciones de la Representante y la Relatora Especial sobre ejecuciones extrajudiciales,
sumarias o arbitrarias, enviadas al Gobierno ci 17 de enero de 2002 y ci 17 de octubre de 2002.
Segün la nueva informaciOn recibida, ci 16 de agosto de 2004, ci Congreso dci Estado de
Chiapas habrIa ratificado un dictamen de la ComisiOn de Justicia dci 13 de agosto, de separar
temporaimente a Pedro Raüi LOpez dci cargo de presidente de la ComisiOn Estatal de Derechos
Humanos, por una acusaciOn de haber obstaculizado la labor dci Organo Fiscalizador para la
revisiOn de los ingresos de la comisiOn a su cargo. Unas horas después de ratificar ci dictamen,
se informa que ci yerno de Pedro Raüi LOpez, Moisés Cervantes Perez, habrIa sido detenido en la
ComisiOn Estatal de Derechos Humanos por elementos de la Agencia Estatal de InvestigaciOn
que ic habrIan conducido a la Procuradurla General de Justicia dci Estado. Hasta ci momento no
se conoce la situaciOn de Moisés Cervantes Perez. Durante ci mismo dIa, la hija de Pedro Raüi
LOpez, Martina Martha LOpez Santiago, habrIa sido detenida por individuos no identificados que
habrIan revisado su boisa y despues la habrIan dejado ir. Sc teme que estos actos de
hostigamiento y la remociOn temporal dci Pedro Raüi LOpez puedan constituir un ataque contra
la ComisiOn de Derechos Humanos dci Estado de Chiapas con ci fin de impedir ci trabajo
realizado por dicho organismo.
380. El 21 de septiembre de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con ci Relator Especial
sobre ci derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y ci Relator Especial sobre la tortura,
enviO una carta de alegaciOn. Los relatores especiales han recibido informaciOn segün la cual un
grupo de aproximadamente cinco personas no identificadas habrIan disparado 15 veces contra
lloracio Zacarlas Barrientos Peralta, un campesino de la comunidad de La Florida, municipio
de Atoyac de Alvarez, Estado de Guerrero, que habrIa failecido ci 28 de noviembre dci 2003 por
la tarde. Los hechos habrIan ocurrido cuando Horacio Zacarlas Barrientos Peraita se encontraba
trabajando en su parcela y a menos de 24 horas que ci Juzgado Cuarto Penal dci Distrito de
Acapulco librara la primera orden de aprehensiOn en contra de uno de los represores de la
ilamada “guerra sucia”, un cx -comandante de la policla judicial. Dc acuerdo con la informaciOn
recibida, Horacio Zacarlas Barrientos Peraita habrIa sido vIctima y a testigo presencial de la
detenciOn, tortura, ejecuciOn y desapariciOn de campesinos en los aflos 1970, en acciones
supuestamente realizadas por ci ejército y la policla mexicanos, en ci municipio de Atoyac de
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Alvarez, y era justamente uno de los principales testigos de la Fiscalia Especial para
Movimientos Sociales y Politicos del Pasado (FEMOSPP), dentro de las investigaciones que se
llevan a cabo contra militares y policias involucrados en las mencionadas violaciones de los
derechos humanos. Una organizaciOn de defensa de los derechos humanos habria informado en
reiteradas ocasiones que no era conveniente que Horacio Zacarias Barrientos Peralta fuera
entrevistado en su casa y que era necesario llevarlo a declarar a Acapulco o a Ciudad de Mexico,
porque opinaban que su vida corria peligro.
381. El 17 de noviembre de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial
sobre el derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y el Relator Especial sobre la situaciOn
de los derechos humanos y las libertades fundamentales de los indigenas, enviO un llamamiento
urgente en relaciOn con la situaciOn de inseguridad, peligro e indefensiOn judicial que viven las
comunidades indigenas de Oaxaca. En particular, refieren a la situaciOn de los miembros del
Consejo Indigena Popular de Oaxaca “Ricardo Flores Magón” como consecuencia de los
recientes actos de hostigamiento y posibles intentos de asesinato que se habrian llevado a cabo
por parte de distintas corporaciones policiacas de Oaxaca. D c acuerdo con las informaciones
recibidas, el 29 de septiembre Ra M Javier Gatica Bautista, dirigente indigena de la mencionada
organizaciOn y defensor de los derechos humanos de los indigenas, y la persona que lo
acompaflaba, Pedro Bautista Rojas, habrian padecido un intento de homicidio mientras
regresaban a la Ciudad de Mexico. Se alega que en dicha ocasiOn, tres sujetos que presuntamente
trabajan con José Murat Casab, Gobernador del Estado de Oaxaca, habrian atentado contra la
vida de Raül Javier Gatica Bautista pero debido a la intervenciOn de la policia auxiliar las armas
fueron retiradas y el atentado fue impedido. Segün se informa, dichos hechos se suman a
recientes actos de intimidaciOn sufridos por los miembros del Consejo Jndigena Popular de
Oaxaca “Ricardo Flores MagOn”. En varias ocasiones, Raül Javier Gatica Bautista se entrevistO
con el Relator Especial sobre la situaciOn de los derechos humanos y libertades fundamentales de
los indigenas y le manifesto su preocupaciOn por las constantes amenazas y acosos sufridos por
el y las poblaciones indigenas de Oaxaca. A pesar de dos reuniones llevadas a cabo los dias 8 y
13 de octubre 2004 con las instituciones püblicas en las cuales se discutieron posibilidades de
habilitar mecanismos temporales de protecciOn para garantizar la integridad fisica y la vida de
los miembros del Consejo Indigena Popular de Oaxaca “Ricardo Flores MagOn”, se denuncia la
escasa voluntad politica de los representantes tanto federales como estatales de cumplir con los
requisitos minimos de seguridad. Se teme que estos actos de hostigamiento en contra del Consejo
Indigena Popular de Oaxaca “Ricardo Flores MagOn” y el atentado contra la vida de RaM Javier
Gatica Bautista y Pedro Bautista Rojas puedan estar relacionados con sus actividades como
defensores de los derechos humanos, en particular en la defensa de los derechos de los pueblos
indigenas.
Comunicaciones recibidas
382. Por carta fechada el 11 de marzo de 2004, el Gobierno contestO ala comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 24 de febrero de 2004 con informaciOn en torno al
caso de José Francisco Gallardo Rodriguez. El Gobierno confirmO que el 21 de enero de 2004
el afectado habria presentado una denuncia ante la Fiscalia desconcentrada en Tlalphan. En la
actualidad las amenazas serán investigadas por parte de la fiscalia local, y en cuanto se termine la
investigaciOn el Gobierno remitirá el resultado con la mayor brevedad posible. Por el momento,
el Gobierno informO que el citado ciudadano beneficiara de medidas provisionales otorgadas por
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la Corte Interamericana de Derechos Humanos, entre elias, un servicio de acompaflamiento y
protecciôn.
383. Por carta fechada ci 27 de abril de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 23 de enero de 2004 con respecto a la situaciôn de
Martin Barrios llernández. El Gobierno informo que ci 30 de diciembre de 2003 la victima
habria presentado una denuncia ante la Procuraduria General de Justicia dcl Estado de Puebia
para denunciar al probable responsabie. Por consecuencia, la Policia habria iniciado una
investigaciôn para averiguar ci nombre y domiciiio de los probabies responsabies, asi como de
los testigos presenciales. Como consecuencia, se iogro la comparencia del probable responsabie
del delito de lesiones y amenazas. El denunciante presentô queja ante la Comisiôn de Derechos
Humanos dci Estado Puebia con motivo de los mismos hechos. Un representante de dicha
Comisiôn acudio a la ciudad de Tehuacan Puebia, para solicitar a la Procuraduria General de
Justicia de Puebia y a la Direcciôn de Seguridad Pübiica Municipal de Tehuacan Puebia que
tomen las medidas necesarias para garantizar la seguridad e integridad fisica dci denunciante,
peticiôn que the aceptada por esa autoridad. El Gobierno informo que la autoridad ministerial
local y la Comisiôn de Derechos Humanos dci Estado Puebia están investigando los hechos
denunciados. Adicionaimente, ci Gobierno de Colombia seguirá atento al resuitado de las
investigaciones que se adelanten, respecto de lo cual informara oportunamente a la
Representante Especial.
384. Por carta fechada ci 10 dejunio de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 13 de enero y ci 2 de febrero de 2004 con
informacion relacionada a la situaciôn de Arturo Soils Gómez, ci Presidente dci Centro de
Estudios Fronterizos y de Promociôn de los Derechos Humanos (CEFPRODHAC), una
organizaciôn que está investigando la muerte de José Antonio Cervantes. Respecto a la seguridad
dci citado ciudadano, la Policia Ministerial dci Estado de Tamaulipas habria recibido de oficio la
denuncia que se ic habr la permitido de abrir una investigaciôn. La autoridad ministerial lo habria
juzgado necesario de otorgar varias medidas cautelares para asegurar la integridad fisica de
Arturo Soils Gômez, entre elias, la vigilancia policial y contacto inmediata entre ci victima y la
Comisiôn de Derechos Humanos dci Estado en todo momento. Respecto a la investigaciôn dci
secuestro y homicidio, ci S de enero de 2004 los supuestos responsabies habr lan sido puestos a la
disposicion dci Juez Segundo de Primera Instancia Penal dci Quinto Distrito Judicial dci Estado.
Asimismo, habria solicitado ordenes de aprehension en contra de cuatro otras personas, los
trámites para la extradicion de una de elias, que habria estado interceptado en los Estados Unidos
de America, habr lan sido iniciados.
385. Por carta fechada ci 15 dejunio de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 24 de marzo de 2004 con respecto a la situaciôn de
Fray Bias Aivarado. El Gobierno confirmo que la victima habria presentado una denuncia ante
la Procuraduria General de Justicia de Tabasco ci 10 de abril de 2004. No obstante, la Comisiôn
Estatal de Derechos Humanos de Tabasco habria deciarado que, por su parte, no habria recibido
ninguna queja en reiacion con ci asunto. Sin embargo, aun intentarla estabiecer contacto con ci
presunto quereilante para informarie de su derecho a la protecciôn ante la icy. El Gobierno
deciaro en cuanto tenga más informacion informaria oportunamente a la Representante Especial.
E/CN.4/2005/10 1/Add. 1
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386. Por carta fechada ci 21 de Junio de 2004, ci Gobierno contestô a la comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 9 de Junio de 2004 con respecto al caso de Isidro
Baldenegro y ilermenegildo Rivas. El Gobierno informO que la ComisiOn Estatal de Derechos
Humanos de Chihuahua habrIa abierto una investigaciOn al fin de la cual habrIa recomendado
que la SubprocuradurIa de Justicia Zona Sur investigara la forma y los términos en que los
citados ciudadanos se habrIan encontrado detenidos.
387. Por carta fechada ci 4 de agosto de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO a la comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 9 de Junio de 2004 con la punterla de proporcionar
informaciOn adicional sobre Isidro Baldenegro y ilermenegildo Rivas. En Junio de 2004, una
opiniOn técnica JurIdica habla ratificado conciusiones no acusatorias a favor de los detenidos. A
raIz de eso, ci Juez habla sobreseldo la causa penal y ci 23 de Junio de 2004, ics habla puesto en
libertad.
388. Por carta fechada ci 10 de Julio de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO a la comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 2 de Junio de 2004 sobre Lucia Genaro Linares,
Adriana Rubio Jorge, Erika Gonzalez Genaro y Elisabeth Gonzalez Genaro. El Gobierno
informO que ci procedimiento investigativo que habrIa sido iniciado por la Procuradurla General
de Justicia dci Estado de Guerrero ci 15 de enero de 2004 continuarIa a fin de determinar los
hechos verdaderos entorno a la muerte de SOcrates Tolentino Gonzalez Genaro. Una vez que se
arroje todos los elementos necesarios, se ejercitarla la acciOn penal correspondiente.
389. Por carta fechada ci 24 de septiembre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO a la comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 19 de agosto de 2004 con respecto a la situaciOn de
Pedro RaW Lopez llernández. El Gobierno dci Estado de Chiapas informO que ci citado
ciudadano habrIa beneficiado de medidas cautelares desde ci 16 de enero de 2002. Respecto a las
presuntas detenciones dci yerno e hija de Pedro Raüi LOpez Hernández, ci Gobierno deciarO que
no habla encontrado ninguna prueba para comprobar la detenciOn de ambos.
390. Por carta fechada ci 29 de octubre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO a la comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 12 de agosto de 2004 relativa a la situaciOn de
Manuel de Ia Cruz. El Gobierno informO que existen evidencias en la averiguaciOn previa
iniciada por ci Minsterio Pübiico que permiten presumir que los agentes municipaics
denunciados incurrieron en hechos delictivos; situaciOn que en su oportunidad vaiorará ci Organo
Jurisdiccional. AgregO que es cierto que ci Señor Manuel de la Cruz the objeto de abuso y
negligencia por parte de servidores pübiicos municipaics. Además, se informO que ci 2 de agosto
de 2004. se dictO auto de formal prisiOn en contra de cuatro policlas municipaics como probabies
responsabies de los delitos de robo con violencia, privaciOn ilegal de la libertad, abuso de
autoridad y lesiones. Los cuatro policlas se encuentran en detenciOn preventiva y están siendo
procesados baJo una causa penal dci Juzgado Segundo de primera Instancia dci Ramo Penal dci
Distrito Judicial de Tuxtia que se encuentra en etapa de instrucciOn. Asimismo, la ComisiOn
Estatal de Derechos Humanos ileva a cabo una investigaciOn que se encuentra pendiente de
conclusion definitiva.
391. Por carta fechada ci 29 de noviembre de 2004, ci Gobierno contestO ala comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 21 de septiembre de 2004 referente ala muerte de
Zacarias Barrientos Peralta. El Gobierno informO que ci 6 de enero de 2004 se habrIa
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proferido una orden de captura contra cinco personas, y les habria puesto a disposicion del Juez
de Primera Jnstancia en Materia Penal del Distrito Judicial de Galeana. Asimismo, un proceso
habria sido iniciado en contra de los presuntos responsables, el resultado de la cual, remitiria a la
mayor brevedad posible.
Seguimiento de comunicaciones transmitidas previamente
392. Por carta fechada el 28 de enero de 2004, el Gobierno contestô a la comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 13 de noviembre de 2003 relativa a la situaciôn de
Marisela Ortiz. El gobierno transmitiô un informe de la subprocuraduria de investigaciôn en el
que constatô que habria entrevistado a Marisela Ortiz y solicitado la ayuda técnica de un
especialista de identificacion (retrato hablado) con el fin de identificar a los responsables de las
amenazas sufridas por ella. Se adjunto a la comunicaciôn recibida el retrato realizado por el
especialista del presunto responsable. Ademas, el gobierno informo que oficiales de la
Procuraduria General se habrian trasladado al domicilio de Marisela Ortiz con el prôposito de
entrevistarla, sin embargo, les habria informado que la señora no se encontraba ya que se habria
ido a los Estados Unidos por temor a represalias.
393. Por carta fechada el 5 de enero de 2004, el Gobierno contestô a la comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 13 de septiembre de 2002 relativa a la situaciôn de
Francisco Cortés Pastenes. El gobierno informo que el 30 de agosto de 2002, la CIDH
transmitiô una nota mediante la cual decreto medidas cautelares de carácter urgente a favor de la
Enedina Cervantes Salgado, esposa de Faustino Jiménez, asi como a favor de Francisco Cortés
Pastenes. Se comunicô también que el Gobierno de Mexico implemento las siguientes medidas a
favor del Francisco Cortés Pastenes: una escolta integrada por elementos de la Procuraduria
General de la Repüblica, y un nümero telefonico de seguridad para comunicarse con la Unidad
de Promociôn y Defensa de los Derechos Humanos de SEGOB. Las investigaciones se
encuentran a cargo de la Unidad contra la Delincuencia Organizada (UEDO).
Observaciones
394. The Special Representative would like to thank the Government for its responses, and
once again comment on their ongoing diligence in promptly replying to multiple
communications. The Special Representative welcomes the arrest of four police officers
currently held in detention awaiting trial for the kidnapping and ill-reatment of Manuel de la
Cruz. She regrets that in the communication received concerning Lucia Genaro Linares, Adriana
Rubio Jorge, Erika Gonzalez Genaro and Elisabeth Gonzalez Genaro, the Government referred
solely to the ongoing investigation of Socrates Tolentino Gonzalez Genaro and thus omitted to
inform the Special Respresentative of any investigation into the threats against the
aforementioned human rights defenders. She refers to her main report to the Commission on
Human Rights (E/CN.4/200 5/101) for a detailed analysis of the trends in the situation of human
rights defenders in Mexico, and for her observations to these trends.
Morocco
Communications envoyées
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395. Le l2janvier 2004, la Representante speciale a envoyc un appel urgent concernant la
situation de Mohammed Rachid Chrii, vice-secretaire general de la section de l'Association
marocaine des droits de l'homme (AMDH) a Safi. Selon les informations reçues, Mohammed
Rachid Chrii aurait etc interpelle le 22 avril 2003 a la suite d'une altercation qu'il aurait cue dans
la rue avec un policier alors que cc dernier brutalisait un homme en etat d'arrestation dans un
quartier de la ville de Safi. Selon les informations reçues, peu aprés cette altercation, il aurait etc
suivi et enleve par cc méme policier et certains de ses collégues et emmene dans un centre de
detention non officiel oü il aurait etc soumis a de mauvais traitements, notamment a des coups et
a l'introduction d'objets dans l'anus. Ii aurait ensuite etc conduit au commissariat de police oü il
aurait de nouveau subi des sevices. Alors que des certificats medicaux attesteraient des sevices et
traumatismes subis par M. Chrii, aucune enquête n'aurait etc ouverte ace jour sur ces faits.
D'autre part, selon les informations reçues, le 9 mai 2003, Mohammed Rachid Chrii aurait etc
condamne par le tribunal de premiere instance de Safi pour outrage a fonctionnaires publics dans
l'exercice de leurs fonctions a 18 mois de prison ferme et 4000 dirhams d'amende. Ce verdict
aurait etc confirme en appel par la cour d'appel de Safi le 10 juin 2003. Une procedure d'appel
serait en cours mais aucune date d'audience n'aurait etc fixee.
396. Le 18 fevHer 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special
sur la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression et le Rapporteur
special sur la torture, a envoyc une lettre d'allegation concernant des allegations de brutalite
contre Abde lhamid Amine ainsi que plusieurs militants lors d'un sit-in pacifique devant le
Parlement a Rabat, organise le 28 janvier 2004 a l'appel de la Coalition pour le droit aux soins et
l'accCs aux medicaments et de celle d'artistes pour la diversite culturelle. M. Amine aurait etc
violemment frappe par la police et serait reste inanime pendant plusieurs minutes suite aux coups
reçus.
397. Le 28 octobre 2004, la Representante speciale a envoyc un appel urgent concernant la
situation de M. A u Salem Tamek. Ali Salem Tamek, un militant pour l'independance du Sahara
occidental, est egalement militant de la branche sahraoui du Forum pour la verite et la Justice,
une association qui fait campagne pour les droits de victimes de torture, de disparitions forcees et
d'autres violations des droits de l'homme et de leurs familles. Le 10 septembre 2002, M. Tamek
a etc condamne a deux ans d'emprisonnement et a une amende pour << misc en danger de la
securite interieure de l'Etat>>. Le 30 janvier 2003, alors qu'il etait en detention au complexe
penitencier de Sale, un de ses codetenus l'aurait attaque avec une barre de metal. Ce méme
codetenu l'aurait deja auparavant attaque avec un couteau. En raison de la deterioration de sa
sante, M. Tamek aurait etc transfere le 29juin 2003 a l'hopital de la prison de Alt Melloul.
M. Tamek aurait etc libere debut janvier 2004 par un decret d'amnistie royale. Selon les
informations reçues, Ali Salem Tamek souffrirait de plusieurs maladies (asthme, crises
cardiaques, rhumatisme, intestins, estomac et peau) et aurait besoin de se deplacer a l'etranger
pour y être hospitalise. Ii aurait depose vainement trois dossiers de demande de passeport : le
premier, le 6 avril 1999, sous le numero 149; le deuxiCme, le 9 fevrier 2001, sous le numero 55;
et, le dernier, le 21 octobre 2004. A cet egard, nous sommes preoccupes par le fait que les delais
pour delivrer un passeport a M. Tamek pourraient être motives par une volonte de le punir pour
ses activites passees au scm du Forum pour la verite et la Justice, et dans le but d'exercer des
pressions a son egard afin qu'il ne reprenne pas ses activites au scm de cette association, malgre
son etat de sante critique.
Communications reçues
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398. Par lettres en date du l4janvier, du l6juin etdu 6 aoüt 2004, le Gouvernementa
repondu ala communication envoyée par la Représentante speciale, le l2janvier 2004,
concernant la situation de M. Mohammed Rachid Chrii qui aurait fait l'objet d'une affaire de
commerce illegal de drogues. Concernant les accusations de mauvais traitement, le
Gouvernement observe que l'examen medical présenté le 24 avril 2004 et l'examen independant
auraient indique que bien que l'interesse ait présenté des bleus et des blessures mineures, cela ne
pouvait constituer des marques de torture. Concernant les charges pesant sur Mohammed Rachid
Chrii, cc dernier aurait ete condamne pour commerce illegal de drogues, transfert clandestin de
tabac, port d'arme et outrage a fonctionnaires dans l'exercice de leurs fonctions. Ii aurait ete
condamne a une peine de dix-huit mois d'emprisonnement et a une amende de 4 000 dirhams. La
cour d'appel aurait néanmoins revise la sentence pour commerce illegal de drogues. Le 7 janvier
2004, l'interesse aurait beneficie de la grace royale pour des raisons humanitaires.
Observations
399. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its replies relating to the
communication sent in the case of Mr. Chrii. She regrets that the Government has not, at the
moment of the finalization of the present report, submitted replies to the other communications.
400. With regard to the case of Mr. Chrii, the Special Representative welcomes the Royal
pardon granted to him. She also welcomes that Mr. Chrii was subjected to a medical visit to
clarify his allegations of torture at the hands of the police. The Special Representative regrets,
however, that the perpetrators of the ill-treatment of Mr. Chrii, which appears to be confirmed by
the results of the medical examination, have not been subjected to disciplinary or criminal
proceedings. Such proceedings are required, whether Mr. Chrii was, as he alleges, severely
tortured, or only subjected to lesser ill-treatment (still resulting in visible wounds) at the hands of
the police, as the Government concedes. Similarly, the Special Representative is concerned at the
lack of information with regard to any disciplinary or criminal action taken against the police
who beat Mr. Amine.
401. Concerning the case of Mr. Tamek, the Special Representative welcomes the fact that Mr.
Tamek was in the meantime issued a passport.
Myanmar
Communciations sent
402. On 18 October 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Chairman-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Special Rapporteur on the
question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning U Aye Kyu, also known as “Monywa”
Aung Shin, a former newspaper editor, U Aung Myint, also known as “Phyapon” Ni Loan Oo, a
newspaper journalist, U Tun Myint, a teacher, U Naing Naing, also known as Saw Naing Naing,
an elected member of Parliament, and U Soc Han, a former high court advocate, all of whom
have been involved in the work of the National League for Democracy . According to the
allegations received, U Aye Kyu, U Tun Myint, U Naing Naing and U Soc Han, who are
currently detained in the Insein Prison, all suffer from serious health problems. U Aye Kyu
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specifically suffers from asthma and respiratory problems. U Aung Myint is currently held in the
Kalay Prison, approximately 600 miles away from Yangon, where prisoners allegedly rely on the
provision of food and medicine from relatives. In September 2000, the five persons mentioned
above participated in the writing of a statement that was broadcast over the radio protesting
against the de facto house arrest of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, leader of the National League for
Democracy, as well as other members of that organization. On 14 December 2000, they were
sentenced to 21 years' imprisonment by the Insein Jail Additional Military Tribunal for the
violation of press and security laws, during a trial for which they did not have legal
representation. In view of their reported poor health, concern is expressed for their mental and
physical integrity if they do not receive prompt and adequate medical attention.
Observations
403. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication.
Nepal
Communications sent
404. On 18 December 2003, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the
Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal regarding Mr. Ram Krishna
Adhikari, a reporter for the weekly “Saghu”, who has reportedly been missing since 10
December 2003. He was last seen attending a human rights event organized by the Human
Rights Organization of Nepal (HURON), at the Hotel Orchid in Kathmandu. According to
reports, the journalist may have been detained by security forces and held at a secret location.
405. On 19 January 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal concerning Mr
Dinesh Raj Prasain, Coordinator of the Collective Campaign for Peace (COAP), who was
allegedly beaten by members of the Royal Nepali Army who also reportedly searched his
residence in Banasthali. According to the information received, on 13 January six men in
civilian clothes and who reportedly identified themselves as security personnel, arrived at his
house demanding to search it for documents and materials. Dinesh Raj Prasain reportedly refused
to open the door, following which one of the men allegedly produced a revolver and threatened
to kill him. It is reported that the men then proceeded to break down the door and at least four of
them, one of whom was reportedly referred to as “Major”, allegedly started beating Mr Prasain
and kicking him in the face, head, stomach and thighs while the other men carried out a search of
his house. It is fhrther reported that 15 members of the Nepali Army surrounded the building
during the above incident. Additional reports indicate that Dinesh Raj Prasain has recently
received death threats. Concern has been expressed that the alleged attack and threats against
Dinesh Raj Prasain are a result of his human rights work.
406. On 4 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Bhimsen Kumar
Gautam, a 40-year-old teacher and auditor from Dhuseni Shivalaya Village Development
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Committee (VDC) in Kavrepalanchowk district, currently residing in Shreenagar Tole,
Minbhawan, in Kathmandu municipality. He is reported to be a member of the Nepal National
Teachers' Association, which is close to the Communist Party of Nepal - United Marxist
Leninist (CPN-UML), and of the Nepal section of Amnesty International. He was reportedly
questioned and arrested on 3 March 2004 by a group of men who entered the building where he
rents a room and identified themselves as security forces personnel. His papers and citizenship
documents were reportedly checked and he was allegedly told to get some clothes on and prepare
to leave. It is also alleged that the security forces made a brief attempt to search the room before
taking him away. It is reportedly not known why he was arrested. His whereabouts are reportedly
unknown since then. Efforts by relatives to locate him, including informing the National Human
Rights Commission, have so far been reportedly unsuccessful. In view of his alleged detention at
an undisclosed location, fears have been expressed that he may be at risk of torture or other
forms of ill-treatment.
407. On 20 April 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal regarding the
situation of Shiva Kumar Pradhan, a human rights defender and secretary-general of yhe
People's Forum for Human Rights and Development Bhutan (PFHRD). According to the
information received, Shiva Kumar Pradhan was allegedly arrested on 19 September 2001 and
charged with the murder of R. K. Budathoki, President of the Bhutan People's Party who was
reportedly killed on 9 September 2001 in Damak, Jhapa. Due to his refugee status, Shiva Kumar
Pradhan was reportedly denied bail and has allegedly been detained in the District Prison of
Changdragari since 16 October 2001. It is reported that the publicly known facts surrounding the
murder do not corroborate the charges brought against Shiva Kumar Pradhan. It is fhrther
reported that the final hearing of his case in the District Court of Changdragari has been
postponed 18 times and that the reasons for the repeated postponements are allegedly unknown.
The final hearing is reportedly scheduled for 2 May 2004. Concern has been expressed that the
arrest and imprisonment of Shiva Kumar Pradhan and the reported delay in legal proceedings
may be an attempt at hindering his human rights activities.
408. On 7 July 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture and the Special Rapporteur on violence against women,
sent a follow-up urgent appeal concerning the case of Mama Sunuwar, a 15-year-old girl whose
whereabouts are unknown since her alleged arrest on 17 February 2004. In this context, the
special rapporteurs have also received information concerning Ms. Bimala B.K., a 20-year-old
resident of Kharelthok Village Development Committee (VDC) 4 of Kavre, who reportedly
witnessed the arrest of Mama Sunuwar. According to the new information received, Bimala B.K
was arrested by the police of Bhagvati Station on 11 February 2004 at around 10a.m., when she
was returning home from Bhagvati Temple. She was arrested on suspicion of being a Maoist. It
is reported that at Bhagvati Police Station, she was severely beaten on various occasions and hit
with plastic pipes, her head was submerged into water, her knees and feet were slot with a sharp
blade and salt and chilli powder were sprinkled over the injuries. She was reportedly gang-raped
by soldiers during 15 consecutive nights. She is also reported to have been forced to take
sedatives. According to the information received, on 18 February 2004 she was taken to
Bhagvatisthan and forced to show to the police Mama Sunuwar's house. Mama Sunuwar was
arrested and they were both taken together to Shantigate Army Barracks and to Panchkal Centre,
where they were kept in separate rooms and beaten. Bimala B.K later reported that she had heard
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Mama Sunuwar screaming with pain. On 19 February 2004, Bimala BK. was taken to Dhulikhel
Police Station and has not seen Mama Sunuwar since then. Whenever she asked police about her
location and condition, she was given varying responses. On one occasion she was told that she
had been killed. On 24 March 2004, Bimala B.K. was transferred from Dhulikhel Police Station
to a Women's prison. As far as the special rapporteurs have been informed, no detention warrant
has been issued by any judicial authority. It is reported that a foreign diplomatic embassy was
informed by the army that Mama Sunuwar was killed when she tried to escape from custody, that
an autopsy was conducted and the body handed over to her family. However, her relatives
sustain that they have never seen her body nor received any information about her fate. Finally,
the special rapporteurs have received information according to which relatives of Mama
Sunuwar are subjected to harassment and intimidation since her arrest.
409. On 12 August 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special
Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of
physical and mental health and the Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent
appeal regarding several male transvestites and the Blue Diamond Society of Nepal, a NGO
working with sexual minorities on sexual health including HP//AIDS and campaigning for the
rights of sexual minorities. According to the allegations received, on 9 August 2004, 39 male
transvestites, usually called metis, all members of the Blue Diamond Society, were arrested on
the street and in public places including bars and restaurants. They are now held in Hanuman
Dhoka police station and were not given food or water during the first 15 hours in custody. They
have not yet been charged with any offence. Concerns have been expressed that their physical
integrity may be at risk. On 25 July, the Police allegedly raped four male transvestites, Jaya
Bahadur Lama, Ramesh Lama, Binod and Madan. They were reportedly stopped by the
police at about 3.30 a.m. in a street near Jamal, forced into a police van, beaten and their money
was taken away. While driving around the city, the van stopped and one officer allegedly took
Jaya Bahadur Lama into the street, beat him, forced him to perform oral sex and raped him. The
men were then reportedly taken to Gausala police station where Ramesh Lama was taken into the
backyard of the police station, beaten and forced to perform oral sex. Although Jaya Bahadur and
Ramesh Lama managed to escape from the police, Binod and Madan were kept inside the van
and were reportedly beaten and raped by 12 policemen for around three hours. The Blue
Diamond Society made a complaint to police authorities about this attack and there is concern
that the recent arrests may be in retaliation for this complaint. A private writ was recently filed in
the Supreme Court of Nepal against the Blue Diamond Society, which calls for closing down the
Blue Diamond Society on the grounds that the organization “promotes homosexuality”. Concerns
have been expressed that defending this court action would seriously hinder the effective
functioning of the Blue Diamond Society, given the organization's limited human and financial
resources, and that closing down the Blue Diamond Society would be detrimental to HIV
prevention efforts in Nepal. Concerns also have been expressed that other organizations working
in the area of HIV prevention among gay men could be open to similar charges.
410. On 15 September 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal regarding ilira Lal Khadka, chairman of the Rukum district branch of Human Rights
and Peace Society (HURPES)l. According to the information received on 29 August 2004, at
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approximately 8 p.m., Hira Lal Khadka was arrested at his home/office in Jumlikhalanga,
Rukum district, and taken to Rukum District Police Office. It is reported that prior to his arrest,
an estimated 40 to 50 police officers surrounded the building and searched his home. It is fhrther
reported that a detention order has been issued against Hira Lal Khadka under the Terrorist and
Disruptive Activities (Punishment and Control) Act (TADA) authorizing his detention for 90
days without trial. In the days subsequent to his arrest he was allegedly given a letter in which he
was accused of publishing pamphlets written by relatives of members of the Communist Party of
Nepal (CPN) (Maoist) who have “disappeared”. Sources indicate that these pamphlets appealed
to the authorities to make known the whereabouts of the “disappeared”. After three days in
detention, representatives of civil society were allowed to visit him and according to reports
received it is feared that he may have been subjected to ill-treatment. On 6 September, Hira Lal
Khadka was reportedly transferred to Nepalgunj Prison, Banke district,, were he remains in
detention. Concern has been expressed that Hira Lal Khadka may have been arrested and
detained as a direct result of his human rights activities as chairman of HURPES and in
particular his public condemnation of human rights violations, including disappearances,
allegedly committed by the security forces. Further concern has been expressed for the safety of
Hira Lal Khadka after the alleged killing of a a member of HURPES,.Dekendra Raj Thapa, on 11
August2004.
411. On 15 September 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal regarding
Dekendra Raj Thapa, a journalist with Radio Nepal, human rights defender and member of the
Dailekh district branch of Human Rights and Peace Society (HURPES). According to the
information received, on 27 June 2004, Dekendra Raj Thapa was reportedly abducted and
detained by a group of CPN-Maoists who had summoned him to discuss a drinking water project
that he had been managing. On 11 August 2004, it is alleged that Dekendra Raj Thapa was killed
by his Maoist captors who cited 10 charges against him, including acting as master of
ceremonies at an event attended by the King of Nepal, corruption in a local drinking water
project and being on the payroll of the army to spy against Maoists. Following the killing it is
alleged that the Maoists have issued fhrther death threats against nine other journalists. Concern
has been expressed that Hira Lal Khadka may have been killed as a direct result of his human
rights activities as a member of HURPES and in particular his public condemnation of human
rights violations committed by Maoists. Further concern has been expressed for the safety of all
journalists in Nepal in the light of these recent threats.
412. On 11 October 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal concerning Durga
Thapa, a newspaper reporter and representative of the Informal Sector Service Centre (INSEC),
a Nepali human rights organization. According to the information received, on 29 July 2004,
Durga Thapa accompanied a team of human rights defenders andjournalists who visited Rahakul
Ranibas Village Development Committee (VDC), Surkhet district, in order to search for
information concerning people abducted by the Maoists and lobby for their release. Allegedly,
three days later, Durga Thapa was abducted by the Maoists when the team was leaving the
village, and the Maoists accused him of “activities against the people's regime” and detained him
in a labour camp. It is reported that Durga was released on 16 August. Allegedly, Durga Thapa
has later received death threats from Maoists and has also been threatened that he may again be
abducted by the Maoists. Concern has been expressed that the reported harassment of Durga
Thapa may be a direct result of his human rights activities as a member of the Informal Sector
Service Centre.
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413. On 14 October 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, the Special Rapporteur on the question of torture
and the Special Rapporteur on violence against women, sent a follow-up urgent appeal
concerning Bimala B. K. According to new information received, she is currently held in
Kathmandu Prison, having been in custody for almost six months without charge, and subjected
to torture. In view of the earlier allegations of torture, concern is expressed that she may continue
to be at risk of torture or other forms of ill-treatment. Moreover, concern is heightened by recent
reports confirming that Mama Sunuwar, whose arrest and beating was witnessed by Bimala B.
K., died in custody.
Observations
414. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted any replies to her communications. She refers to her main report
to the Commission on Human Rights for a detailed analysis of the trends in the situation of
human rights defenders in Nepal, and for her observations to these trends. She encourages the
Government to review favourably her request sent on 14 October 2003 and reiterated on 2
December 2004 for an invitation to conduct an official visit to the country in 2005.
Nigeria
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
415. By letter dated 2 April 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 14
November 2003 concerning Churchill Ibeneche. The Government informed that the allegations
cannot be investigated, as the Nigerian authorities have no record of existence of the C3RJ. It
stated that the Special Representative might wish to provide additional information on the C3RJ
and its Executive Director to enable investigation to be carried out.
Observations
416. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its response to her
communication. She also wishes to thank the Government for granting her request for an
invitation to conduct an official visit and looks forward to conducting her visit to the country in
May this year.
Pakistan
Communications sent
417. On 31 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal regarding the situation of Dr. A.ll.Nayyar, a peace activist, anti-globalization
campaigner and former professor of Quaid - i - Azam University. According to the information
received, during April and May 2003, Dr. Nayyar and a group of students staged a protest
outside Kentucky Fried Chicken and Pizza Hut restaurants in Islamabad in protest against the
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Iraq war and as part of a general campaign to boycott goods from the United States. According to
the information received, the police were initially cooperative with the demonstrators until they
reportedly came under pressure from the franchise management to stop the demonstration. It is
reported that on 9 April 2003, a minor confrontation took place in which the police pushed the
demonstrators back and stopped them from using a megaphone and from shouting slogans. No
further confrontation was reported and the demonstration allegedly continued peacefully for
another month. However, according to the information received, on 9 April 2003, a criminal case
was registered against Dr. Nayyar for his involvement in the demonstration. No further action
was reportedly taken until 24 March 2004 when two policemen allegedly came to his office and
reportedly informed him that a First Information Report (FIR) had been filed against him and
advised him to obtain bail before his arrest. The F.I.R reportedly states that Dr. A.H. Nayyar and
his colleagues had staged an unlawful demonstration. Concern has been expressed that the
registration of a criminal case against Dr. Nayyar may be an attempt at hindering his human
rights work.
418. On 7 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
violence against women and the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary
executions, sent an urgent appeal regarding the situation of Uzma Noorani, secretary-general of
Panah Shelter Home for Women and a council member of the Human Rights Commission of
Pakistan. According to the information received, in 2002 Uzma Noorani provided shelter in the
Panah Shelter Home for Women to a woman who had allegedly been tortured by her husband, a
major in the army. It is reported that during this time, the husband of the woman, whose name is
known to the Special Representative, harassed and threatened to kill the staff of Panah for having
granted asylum to his wife. The woman reportedly returned to her husband two months later.
However, her husband reportedly obtained the contact details of Uzma Noorani and has
subjected her and her family to constant harassment and intimidation with threatening and
abusive telephone calls. She reportedly filed a complaint on 26 April 2003 with the commander
of the army and the Citizen Police Liaison Committee (CPLC). The commander reportedly
informed her that she would no longer be harassed. She allegedly did not receive a reply from the
CPLC. The harassment reportedly stopped following her complaint but has reportedly begun
again. A further complaint was filed on 25 February 2004 with the police, including the Senior
Superintendent of Police in Islamabad Mr Shaid Nadeem Balouch. However, no action has
reportedly been taken by the authorities to protect Uzma Noorani and her family. Concern has
been expressed that Uzma Noorani is being targeted for her work on women's rights.
419. On 9 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
violence against women, sent an urgent appeal in connection with information received that
Samina Khokhar, sister of Irfan Khokhar, has received a death threat from unknown men who
are believed to be connected to the perpetrators of her brother's murder. It is reported that Irfan
Khokhar was the information coordinator of Peace Worldwide, a Christian organization based in
Islamabad who was murdered by three men on the night of 7 February 2004. According to the
information received, on 25 May 2004, two unknown men followed Samina Khokhar in
Islamabad and called her at her workplace, saying that she would be killed because her family
had not withdrawn the complaint against the three perpetrators involved in her brother's murder,
including Hafiz Atta ur Rehman. She is now said to be in hiding, and her other brother, Jmran
Khokhar, also has reportedly had to leave his home due to continuous threats. Since Irfan
Khokhar's death, the victim's family has reportedly been threatened by Hafiz Atta ur Rehman,
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who is believed to be the primary suspect responsible for the killing. In addition, staff members
of Peace Worldwide have also allegedly received threats from the perpetrators. Although the
police have arrested one suspect, Hafiz Atta ur Rehman and the other suspect are still at large,
and the police have reportedly not taken any serious action to protect witnesses and the victim's
family. In this context the special rapporteurs requested that protection be provided to the
victim's family and witnesses and that justice is rendered in this case.
Communications received
420. By letter dated 16 June 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by the
Special Representative on 31 March 2004 in connection with the situation of Dr A.ll.Nayyar.
According to the Government, on 9 April 2004, the police filed a FIR against the Dr A.H.Nayyar
and several other protestors for violations against section 144 (holding a protest demonstration
without obtaining prior permission). The Government stated that the accused filed for a writ in
the Lahore High Court Rawalpindi Bench challenging the aforementioned FIR. The same Court
ruled in favour of the accused and the FIR was quashed on the grounds that it had been lodged
without any lawful authority.
421. By letter dated 14 July 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by the
Special Representative on 9 June 2004 with reference to a death threat received by Samina
Khokhar. The Government confirmed that the police in Islamabad were willing to provide the
victim with protection. However, it noted that the whereabouts of the aforementioned are
unknown. The police recommended that Samina Khokhar inform them of her place of work and
residence.
422. By letter dated 15 October 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by
the Special Representative on 7 April 2004 regarding the situation of Uzma Noorani. The
Government informed the Special Representative that a FIR had been filed against Uzma
Noorani on 1 October 2003, leading to her subsequent arrest and appearance before a judge.
However, the necessary preventative action has been prepared and sent to the Court.
Observations
423. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its replies to the communications
sent. She welcomes the termination of the criminal proceedings against Dr. Nayyar. The Special
Representative remains concerned, however, about the case of Ms. Noorani. It appears from the
Government's reply that instead of being shielded by the authorities against the threats and other
harassment she is enduring as a result of her work in the defence of women subjected to
domestic violence, Ms. Noorani is now herself the subject of criminal proceedings.
Peru
Comunicaciones enviadas
424. El 10 de mayo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre la
tortura, el Relator Especial sobre el derecho a la libertad de opinion y de expresiOn y el Relator
Especial sobre la yenta de niflos, la prostituciOn infantil y la utilizaciOn de niflos en la
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pornografla, envio una carta de alegacion. Los relatores especiales y la Representante Especial
han recibido informacion segün la cual cerca de 150 niflos y adolescentes que viven o trabajan
en la calle en Lima, asI como algunos adultos que los acompaflaban, habrIan sido vIctimas de
un uso excesivo de la fuerza por parte de la policla el 20 de noviembre de 2003, durante la
represiôn de una manifestacion convocada por asociaciones comprometidas con niflos que viven
o trabajan en la calle: el Movimiento Nacional de Niflos y Adolescentes Trabajadores
organizados del Peru (MNINATSOP), el Movimiento de Niflos y Adolescentes Trabajadores
Hijos de Obreros Cristianos (MANTHOC), el Instituto de Formaciôn para Educadores de
Jôvenes Adolescentes y Niflos Trabajadores de America Latina y el Caribe (IFEJANT) y
Generaciôn. La manifestacion se habrIa organizado para conmemorar el aniversario de la
Convenciôn de los Derechos del Niflo y para pedir pacIficamente una mejor protecciôn de los
derechos del niflo. D c acuerdo con la informacion recibida, la manifestacion se desarrollaba
pacIficamente hasta que la policla intervino para disolverla a la fherza en la Plaza Mayor. Los
agentes de policla habrIan utilizado gases lacrimogenos y golpeado con porras a los
manifestantes, a quienes tambien habrIan dado patadas. Bebes que se encontraban en los brazos
de sus madres tambien habrIan sido golpeados. Algunas personas se habrIan desmayado y otras
habrIan sufrido contusiones. A modo dejustificacion de su actuaciôn, la policla habrIa alegado
que la manifestacion era ilegal por no respetar el decreto de la AlcaldIa mediante el cual se
prohibirla toda manifestacion püblica en el centro de Lima. Se alega que para no infringir este
decreto, las organizaciones de niflos trabajadores habrIan adelantado una protesta no violenta con
pequeflos grupos que ingresaban a la plaza por turnos, exigiendo el respeto a los niflos y el
reconocimiento y plena ciudadanla de la niflez como un sujeto de derecho, como actores
protagonistas de la sociedad. Se alega igualmente que 13 manifestantes habrIan sido detenidas
por las fuerzas policiales pertenecientes a la Unidad de Servicios de Control de Disturbios de la
Policla. Entre ellas, Enrique Jaramillo, coordinador de Generaciôn, habrIa sido golpeado e
insultado cuando se encontraba bajo custodia policial. Tres menores, unajoven de 14 aflos de
edad y dos varones de 10 y 12 aflos, todos niflos de la calle, habrIan sido trasladados a un centro
de detencion preventiva y liberados el 22 de noviembre de 2003.
425. El 18 de mayo de 2004, la Representante Especial, junto con el Relator Especial sobre
ejecuciones extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias, enviô un llamamiento urgente sobre la
situaciôn de Catalina Castillo Leon, un testigo del supuesto secuestro y asesinato de seis
miembros de su familia en 1992. Segün la informacion recibida, el 24 de junio de 1992, diez
hombres vestidos en uniformes parecidos a los del ejército y al parecer miembros del Grupo
Colina, un grupo que presuntamente hacla parte orgánica de la estructura del Servicio de
Inteligencia de Peru habrIan secuestrado a Rafael Ventocilla Rojas, alcalde del Distrito de
Cochamarca, sus hijos Alejandro, Simon y Paulino, su nieto Ruben y su hermano Marino.
Catalina Castillo Leon habrIa denunciado la detenciOn de sus familiares ante la policla. Segün los
informes, los cuerpos de los seis integrantes de su familia habrIan sido hallados el dIa siguiente
sepultado en una fosa comün cerca de la carretera Huara-Sayán. Segün los informes, la
investigaciOn se encuentra actualmente en la fiscalla especializada. Catalina Castillo LeOn habrIa
pedido a la Comisarla de Huaura de constatar los hechos pero el comisario responsable quien, al
parecer es familiar de un miembro del Grupo Colina, habrIa mostrado reservas antes este pedido.
En este contexto y segün la informaciOn recibida, el 6 de mayo de 2004, un grupo de diez
individuos, uno de ellos vistiendo traje de policla, habrIa irrumpido violentamente en el
domicilio de Catalina Castillo LeOn en Provincia de Guacho. Los hombres la habrIan amenazado
con darle muerte tal como ocurriO a los seis miembros de su familia. Se teme que esta reciente
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amenaza contra Catalina Castillo Leon esté relacionada con su actividad de solicitar una
investigaciOn independiente e imparcial tras el asesinato de seis miembros de su familia.
426. El 19 de Julio de 2004, la Representante Especial enviO una carta de alegaciOn sobre la
situaciOn de seguridad de Mario lluamán Rivera, Presidente de la ConfederaciOn General de
Trabajadores del Peru, organizador de la huelga general del pasadol4 deJulio de 2004 en Lima.
Segün las informaciones recibidas, el 6 de Julio de 2004 la esposa de Mario Huamán Rivera
habrIa recibido, de manos de un repartidor, un ramo de fibres y un paquete envuelto. Segün los
informes, diez minutos después habrIa recibido una llamada telefOnica anOnima en la que le
habrIa preguntado sobre el regalo y le habrIa recomendado que no lo abriera porque contenla una
bomba. La esposa habrIa llamado a la policla que se habrIa llevado el paquete y que luego
confirmaron que contenla una granada. Segün se informa, la policla habrIa abierto una
investigaciOn sobre esta amenaza de muerte. Se teme que esta amenaza de muerte pueda estar
relacionada con el trabajo de Mario Huamán como Presidente de la ConfederaciOn General de
Trabajadores del Peru yen particular su trabajo de organizador de la huelga del 14 deJulio para
pedir meJ ores condiciones de vida y para oponerse ala polItica econOmica del Gobierno.
427. El 7 de septiembre de 2004, la Representante Especial, Junto con el Relator Especial
sobre las eJecuciones extraJudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias, el Relator Especial sobre la tortura,
el Relator Especial sobre la independencia de magistrados y abogados y el Relator Especial sobre
la promociOn del derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn, enviO un llamamiento urgente
en relaciOn con Luis Alberto RamIrez ilinostroza, quien fue vIctima de tortura durante la
dictadura militar y quien es ahora uno de los testigos principales ante la ComisiOn de la Verdad y
ReconciliaciOn del Peru yen el proceso Judicial contra un general retirado acusado de la
desapariciOn forzada de nueve personas en 1991. D c acuerdo con la informaciOn recibida, Luis
Alberto RamIrez Hinostroza habrIa recibido amenazas de muerte y ataques contra su persona en
varias ocasiones durante los ültimos meses. El 13 de marzo de 2004, cuatro individuos habrIan
disparado contra él llamandole “bocOn” mientras le persegulan. El 6 de mayo, habrIa recibido
una carta con amenazas Junto con dos fotograflas de su hiJa y su esposa. En Julio del mismo aflo,
habrIa recibido otras amenazas de muerte en su casa. En otra ocasiOn, cuando visitO el lugar
donde habrIa sido torturada aflos atrás, unos soldados lo habrIan fotografiado y habrIan
amenazado con detenerle. A finales de agosto de 2004, Luis Alberto RamIrez Hinostroza habrIa
notado que alguien le estaba siguiendo. Seguidamente habrIa solicitado ayuda ante la
procuradurla de Huancayo. Sin embargo le habrIan informado que el funcionario solicitado no se
encontraba y habrIa tenido que irse sin protecciOn policial. Dos dIas más tarde, el 30 de agosto,
un hombre y una muJer le habrIan disparado desde un vehIculo negro cerca de su casa, en El
Tambo, Huancayo. Luis Alberto RamIrez Hinostroza habrIa resultado herido en el estOmago y
habrIa sido conducido al Hospital El Carmen, donde habrIa sido operado. Se alega que la
ComisiOn Jnteramericana de Derechos Humanos pidiO al Gobierno peruano, el 2 de agosto de
2004, que tomara las medidas necesarias para garantizar su seguridad. Antes del ültimo ataque,
habrIa recibido una carta oficial en la que se le indicaba que se le otorgaban garantlas personales,
pero no se le habrIa proporcionado asistencia fIsica. Actualmente, dos agentes de policla estarlan
encargados de su seguridad en el hospital. Sin embargo las autoridades todavIa no le habrIan
garantizado la asistencia de guardaespaldas para más adelante. A la luz de estas alegaciones, se
han expresado temores por la seguridad de Luis Alberto RamIrez Hinostroza y la de su familia.
428. El 22 de noviembre de 2004, la Representante Especial, Junto con el Relator Especial
sobre la promociOn y la protecciOn del derecho a la libertad de opiniOn y de expresiOn y el
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Relator Especial sobre la independencia de magistrados y abogados, envio un llamamiento
urgente sobre la situaciôn de Gloria Cano, abogada y defensora de los derechos humanos de la
organizaciôn no gubernamental Asociaciôn Pro Derechos Humanos (APRODEH), quien habria
recibido recientemente amenazas de muerte. D c acuerdo con las informaciones recibidas, el 20
de octubre de 2004, Gloria Cano se encontraba en las oficinas de APRODEH en Lima cuando
recibio el mensaje de texto siguiente en su telefono movil: “Hola perra, nos estamos en la cared,
cuidate hasta de tu sombra, te vas a reunir con el terruco en el infierno yelmo”. Gloria Cano
habria sido ya previamente victima de un acto de intimidacion en enero de 2003, cuando habria
sido rodeada, insultada y golpeada por un grupo de individuos no identificados delante de las
oficinas de APRODEH. Gloria Cano denuncio la amenaza de muerte ante la Fiscalia de la
Naciôn, el 25 de octubre. La CIDH ha pedido al Estado peruano que les informe cuales medidas
está tomando para investigar esta denuncia. Segün se informa, Gloria Cano recibio la amenaza al
dia siguiente de la publicacion de un comunicado de prensa de APRODEH que mostraba su
preocupaciôn por la excarcelacion de Vladimiro Montesinos (cx -asesor presidencial sobre
inteligencia), Nicolás Hermoza Rios (cx -comandante enjefe de las fuerzas armadas) y Roberto
Huamán Azcurra (cx -director del Servicio de Jnteligencia Militar), que habian permanecido
detenidos los ültimos 18 meses por su presunta implicacion en el homicidio de tres miembros del
grupo armado de oposiciôn Movimiento Revolucionario Tüpac Amaru durante una operaciôn
militar de 1997. Los acusados habrian sido excarcelados porque, a causa de las demoras en el
juicio, habian excedido el plazo máximo de detencion preventiva permitido por la ley. Gloria
Cano es el abogado de las familias de las victimas desde 2001 y se supone que las amenazas
recibidas estén relacionadas con su trabajo de abogado y defensor de los derechos humanos en
relacion con este caso.
429. Por carta fechada el 7 de Julio de 2004, el Gobierno contestô a la comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 10 de mayo de 2004 con respecto al supuesto uso
excesivo de la fuerza por parte de la policia en contra de 150 niflos y adolescentes que viven o
trabajan en Ia calle en Lima, asi como algunos adultos que los acompaflaban durante una
manifestacion convocada por asociaciones comprometidas con niflos que viven o trabajan en la
calle. El Gobierno informo que los intervenidos y aproximadamente otras 80 personas, en
proceso de identificacion, se reunieron en la Plaza Mayor donde se concentraron para realizar
una manifestacion con ocasiôn de celebrarse un aniversario de la Convenciôn sobre los Derechos
del Niflo, propiciando actos violentos, en su intento de ingresar al centro de Lima, zona declarada
“restringida” por un mandato municipal. Por tal razôn, los efectivos policiales les habrian
conminado para que dejaran su actitud de fuerza. No obstante, éstos atacaron a los custodios del
orden, quienes se habrian vistos obligados a lanzar gases lacrimogenos; en estas circunstancias,
habria intervenido un mayor contingente policial siendo también atacados y herido el mayor
Fernando Vergara Garcia. Como consecuencia habria capturado “in flaganti” a 13 personas. El
Atestado Policial habria llegado a las siguientes conclusiones: a) Que las personas identificadas y
otras 80 aproximadamente en proceso de identificacion son presuntos autores del Delito contra la
Tranquilidad Püblica (Contra la Paz Püblica —Alteracion del Orden Püblico-Disturbios y
Asociaciôn Ilicita para Delinquir), Delito Contra la Administracion Püblica Cometido por
Particulares-(Violencia y Resistencia a la Autoridad); b) No se habria encontrado indicios de
daflos materiales en la propiedad püblica ni privada en la Plaza Mayor y calles aledaflas; c) Se
deja a la Autoridad Judicial competente, se pronuncie sobre las situaciôn legal de la dos
ciudadanas norteamericanas, y si se habria infringido la Ley de Extranjeria; d) Se pone a
disposicion de la Autoridad Judicial competente a X, quien a ser detenido dijo llamarse y se
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pronuncie sobre su situaciôn legal al haber utilizado otro nombre; e) No de habrIa recibido las
respuestas de la informaciones solicitadas a las diversas entidades, asI como los RML que
acrediten las lesiones de los intervenidos y efectivos de la Policla, cuyos resultados una vez
recabados se remitirán a la Autoridad Judicial Competente; Hasta el momento no habrIa sido
posible identificar a las otras 80 personas que habrIan participado en los ilIcitos penal detallados
arriba. En consecuencia se habrIa formalizado denuncia penal contra los manifestantes que
irrumpieron en la Plaza Mayor por los delitos de Delito contra la Tranquilidad Püblica — Delitos
contra la Paz Püblica, Disturbios en agravio de la Sociedad, de acuerdo con el artIculo 315 del
Codigo Penal. El estado actual del proceso corresponderla a la etapa inicial de la investigaciôn.
Asimismo las denuncias contra las dos ciudadanas norteamericanas habrIan sido archivadas de
manera definitiva.
430. Por carta fechada el 23 de septiembre de 2004, el Gobierno contestô a la comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 7 de septiembre de 2004 con respecto a las
amenazas de muerte y ataques contra Luis Alberto RamIrez ilinostroza. El Gobierno
transmitiô un informe del Consejo Nacional de Derechos Humanos. Este informe indica que el
31 de agosto 2004, el Ministro de Justicia, el Dr. Carlos Gamarra Ugaz, remitiô un oficio al
despacho del Viceministro del Interior reiterando las medidas cautelares necesarias para
garantizar la integridad personal de Luis Alberto RamIrez Hinostroza. El Viceministro del
Interior fue informado eli 0 de septiembre 2004 que el General PNP Adolfo Alfaro Züfliga,
Director de la VIl-DIRTEPOL en Huancayo, habrIa recibido a través de un memorandum del
General PNP Percy Soria Medina, director general de la Policla Nacional de Peru el orden que se
procedera “de inmediato a instalar servicio de seguridad personal al agraviado, con dos efectivos
policiales, durante las 24 horas del dIa hasta nueva orden”. También, el personal especializado de
la JEFICAJ está en carga de realizar las investigaciones correspondientes con el propôsito de
identificar, ubicar y capturar a los autores en coordinacion con el representante del Ministerio
Publico. Ademas, el Consejo Nacional de Derechos Humanos informo que el prefector Regional
de Junin, mediante un oficio de fecha de 4 de agosto 2004, seflalo que el 22 de marzo 2004, el
Dr. Eduardo Torres Gonzales, Juez Penal se dirigio a la prefectura de Junin para brindar las
garantlas personales a Luis Alberto RamIrez Hinostroza. En base a la peticiôn del ôrgano
jurisdiccional, el 15 de abril 2004, se emitiô una resolucion prefectoral en Junin otorgando
garantlas personales a favor de Luis RamIrez Hinostroza y su familia, en contra de Luis Perez,
contra quién tiene un proceso judicial por derechos humanos (tortura). Ademas, Dilma Clemente,
Juez del Cuarto Juzgado Penal, se ha dirigido al prefecto de la provincia de Huancayo para
solicitar las garantlas personales al agraviado. La Secretaria Ejecutiva del Consejo Nacional de
Derechos Humanos del Ministerio de Justicia ha remitido oficios el 4 de agosto 2004 a varias
agencias del Estado solicitando informacion. La Secretaria Ejecutiva del Consejo de Derechos
Humanos deja constancia que no ha recibido informacion relacionada a medidas concretas
adoptadas con la finalidad de protecciôn al Señor Ramirez Hinostroza hasta el 30 de agosto.
431. Por carta fechada el 14 de octubre de 2004, el Gobierno contestô ala comunicaciôn
transmitida por la Representante Especial el 18 de mayo de 2004 con respecto a las amenazas de
muerte y ataques en contra de Catalina Castillo Leon. El Gobierno transmitiô una nota de
informacion proporcionada por el Consejo Nacional de Derechos Humanos. En un oficio de
fecha S dejulio 2004, Dr. Felix E. Salazar Huapallo, Fiscal Superior Decano, Distrito Judicial de
Huaura, indico al Fiscal Superior Titular, Representante del Ministerio Püblico ante el Consejo
Nacional de Derechos Humanos, que habla recibido informacion del Coronel PNIP José Campos
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sobre la intervenciôn policial realizada ci 6 de mayo 2004 en ci domiciiio de Catalina Castillo
Leon. Los motivos y circunstancias de la intervenciOn policial fueron en ci marco del Operativo
“Delincuencia 2004”, cuyo objetivo era ubicar y capturar a los autores del asesinato del
empresario Jorge Wetterman Rivas. Un hijo de la Sra. Castillo LeOn, Wilbert Ventocilia Castililo,
fue acusado dcl delito “Contra ci Patrimonio” — robo agravado y subsiguiente homicidio dcl
ingeniero Wetterman Rivas y fue buscado por la policla. Wilbert Ventocilia Castillo huyO en un
vehIculo. Ademas, ci Fiscal Superior Decano, Distrito Judicial de Huaura, no tiene conocimiento
de aiguna denuncia o queja presentada directamente por la Sra. Castillo LeOn, asimismo tampoco
otra denuncia en la Primera y Segunda Fiscaila Provincial Penal dci Distrito.
432. Por carta fechada ci 23 de diciembre 2004, ci Gobierno contestO ala comunicaciOn
transmitida por la Representante Especial ci 22 de noviembre de 2004 sobre la situaciOn de
Gloria Cano Legua, abogada y defensora de los derechos humanos de la organizaciOn no
gubernamental AsociaciOn Pro Derechos Humanos (APRODEH). El Gobierno informO que la
Fiscaila Penal ingresO la denuncia presentada por Gloria Cano, por delito contra la libertad, en
contra de los responsabies, y que dicha denuncia the remitida a la DivisiOn de la Policia dci
Ministerio Pübhco con elfin de ilevar a cabo las investigaciones prehminares. Asimismo, ci
Gobierno informO que ci 5 de noviembre de 2004, la Policla Nacional dispuso la adopciOn de
una serie de medidas en relaciOn con la solicitud de medidas de seguridad solicitadas por Gloria
Cano. En particular, se dispuso otorgar servicio de seguridad y vigilancia dci local de
APRODEH a cargo de la Comisarla PNP de Jesus MarIa y brindar medidas de protecciOn
personal a la Doctora Gloria Cano, asi como efectuar las investigaciones dci caso con relaciOn a
su denuncia.
Observaciones
433. The Special Representative would like to thank the Government for its detailed
responses. She welcomes the steps taken to improve the situation of human rights defenders, in
particular, the police protection programmes offered to a number of victims of death threats and
serious physical attacks. Nevertheless, she remains concerned by the gravity of the threats levied
against human rights defenders in Peru. Furthermore, the Special Representative would like to
voice her concern for the present safety of Mr. Hinostroza since the termination of the protection
measures granted to him by the Government on 30 August 2004. Finally, the Special
Representative would be grateful if the Government would take the opportunity to inform her of
any measures taken to prevent the harassment of human rights defenders in Peru.
Philippines
Communications sent
434. On 21 January 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the
Chairman-Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, sent a communication
concerning the situation of Jose Suplaag, the spokesperson of the Union of Farmers in Danao
City (PAMADA). The allegation is that he was arrested and tortured by members of 78th
Infantry Batailion in Brgy Damalog, Sogod, Cebu. According to the information received, on 2
December 2003, a group of armed soldiers reportedly arrived at the farm of Jose Supiaag in Pili,
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claiming that subversive documents had been found in his possession, proceeded to arrest him by
force. He was then allegedly taken to the headquarters of the 78th Infantry Batallion where he
was accused of being a member of the New People's Army, which Jose Suplaag reportedly
denied. He was then allegedly tortured for two days by his captors, who wrapped his head with a
plastic bag full of crushed pepper until he was at the point of fainting, then punched him in the
back with their elbows and threatened him with summary execution if he did not admit his
membership of the NFA. Jose Suplaag, reportedly illiterate, was made to sign a document
without being informed of its contents. It is further alleged that, on 4 December, Jose Suplaag
was taken to Danao City Jail and charged with illegal possession of firearms in a case filed by his
captors at the Regional Trial Court, Branch 25. Fear has been expressed that the alleged arrest
and torture of Jose Suplaag may represent a form of reprisal for his work with PAMADA in the
defence, in particular denouncing the alleged human rights violations committed by the 78th
Infantry Battalion.
435. On 1 March 2004, the Special Representative sent an allegation letter regarding the
killings of Juvy Magsino, a human rights lawyer, the Chairperson of Mindoro for Justice and
Peace and Vice Mayor of Naujam in Mindoro Oriental and of Leim Fortu, a volunteer at
Mindoro for Justice and Peace and the Acting Secretary General of Karapatan-Mindoro Oriental.
According to the information received, on 13 February 2004 Juvy Magasino and Leim Fortu
were on their way by car to the house of a friend in Pingagsbangan Naujan. After passing
through Curba, they were reportedly followed by two men on a motorcycle with no licence plate
who are believed to be members of the 204th Infantry Brigade. It is reported that in Barangay
Amuguis, 100 metres from the headquarters of the 204th Infantry Brigade (IBPA), the men fired
at the human rights defenders' vehicle with a 9mm gun and a rifle. Juvey Magasino reportedly
received three gunshot wounds to her head and chest and Leim Fortu received gunshot wounds
to her chest, right ear, knee and shoulder. Both women reportedly died from their wounds.
According to the information received, Juvy Magasino, who was running for Mayor of Nauj an in
Mindoro Oriental, had reported to the Karapatan Southern Tagalog Office that she had received
two death threats informing her that she would not live beyond 15 February 2004. Concern has
been expressed that the killings may be connected to the human rights activities of the two
women and in particular to the criticism voiced by Juvy Magasino about the increased military
deployment in the island province. The allegation also suggested that she had spoken out on the
involvement of a former 204th IBPA commanding officer in the alleged killings of the
Karapatan-Southern Tagalog Secretary General, Eden Marcellana, and Chairman of Kasama-TK,
Eddie Gumanoy, in April 2003.
436. On 24 September 2004, the Special Representative sent an allegation letter in connection
with the death of Rashid Manahan, a human rights defender, executive director of the
Community Resource and Development Center (CRDC), a non-governmental organization based
in Boliao District, Supermarket Area, and Mindanao coordinator of the Mamamayan Tutol sa
Bitay Movement for Restorative Justice. According to the information received, on 24 August
2004, Mr. Rashid Manahan, was killed in broad daylight in front of Ponce Suites, Bajada, in
Davao City. It is alleged that he was with Prof Nymia Simbulan, Executive Director of
Philrights and Ms. Martha Alvarez, a representative of the European Union. The three were on
their way to attend a forum against the death penalty in Mindanao. Mr. Manahan was reportedly
killed by the Davao Death Squad that is linked to more than 100 unsolved killings. Concern has
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been expressed that the murder of Mr. Rashid Manahan is the result of his dedication to the
defence of human rights.
Observations
437. The Special Representative regrets that, at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication. She expresses serious concerns at
the reported killings of human rights defenders in the country.
Republic of Korea
Communications sent
438. On 19 January 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal regarding the
alleged arrest and deportation of two Bangladeshi human rights defenders by the South Korean
authorities. According to the information received, Khademul Islam Bidduth, leader of the
Equality Trade Union Migrants Branch (ETU-MB) and Jamal Ali, an active member of the
migrant movement, were arrested by police in the Republic of Korea on 26 October 2003 while
taking part in a demonstration against an alleged crackdown on migrant workers by the
Government, which began on 24 October. The allegation is that, following their deportation to
Bangladesh, they were held in detention until 4 January 2004, apparently for their association
with trade unions and civil society groups. Reports have also been received regarding alleged
violence in the treatment of other ETU-MB members by police and immigration authorities
during the above mentioned demonstrations.
Communications received
439. By letter dated 4 June 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by the
Special Representative on 19 January 2004 in connection with the alleged arrest and deportation
of two Bangladeshi human rights defenders by the South Korean authorities. In its response, the
Government questioned the status of the accused as human rights defenders. According to the
Government, Khademul Islam Bidduth and Rasul ilossen were illegal migrants in violation of
several articles of the Immigration Control Act; in particular, articles 17 (residing illegally) and 7
(travelling under a false passport), respectively. As a result, they were deported to Bangladesh on
31 December 2003. In its response, the Government expressed its confidence that any action
taken against the deported persons is in conformity with the sovereign law of the Republic of
Korea. It also emphasized that the petitions filed by the accused on two occasions were
dismissed by the National Human Rights Commission, an independent body. In response to the
allegations of police violence and ill-treatment towards “Equality Trade Union — Migrants'
Branch” demonstrators, the Government denied all acusations. Indeed, the Government
informed the Special Representative that both Khademul Islam Bidduth and Rasul Hossen had
assaulted police officers who attempted to curtail the spread of the demonstration into
unauthorized areas of the city.
Observations
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440. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its response to her
communication.
Russian Federation
Communications sent
441. On 26 January 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special
Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions and the Special Rapporteur on the
question of torture, sent a letter of allegation concerning Asian Davietukaev, a human rights
defender who had been working as a volunteer with the Society of Russian-Chechen Friendship
(SRCF) since 2000, in particular gathering information on the situation of human rights in
Chechnya for the SRCF Information Centre. According to the information received, on 10
January 2004 at 22:15, approximately 50 armed men in three military and two civilian vehicles,
arrived at the home of Aslan Davletukaev in Avtury, where they reportedly beat him and forced
him at gunpoint into one of their cars. It is reported that on 16 January, the body of Aslan
Davletukaev, apparently showing signs of torture and mutilation, was found by reconnaissance
units of the Russian army near a highway at the entrance to Gudermes. His death was reportedly
the result of a bullet wound to the back of the head.
442. On 28 January 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, sent an urgent appeal concerning the situation of
Mr. Imran Ezhiev, human rights defender and Chairperson of the Chechen and Ingush Branch
of the Society of Russian-Chechnen Friendship (SRCF). According to the information received,
Imran Ezhiev was returning home to Ingushetia on 26 January when he was reportedly followed
by a grey model Zhiguli car without licence plates, thought to belong to the security service of
the Chechen president. It is reported that Imran Ezhiev was investigating the reported abduction
and killing of Aslan Sheripovich Davletukaev, a volunteer with SRCF. Fear has been expressed
that Imran Ezhiev may be targeted for his human rights work, in particular his efforts to bring
about accountability for the reported killing of his former colleague. Concerns are heightened by
the fact that three members of SRCF have reportedly been killed to date, allegedly including
Imran Ezhiev's brother. The concerns of the special rapporteurs are further heightened by the fact
that Imran Ezhiev was reportedly subject to previous harassment by the authorities in 2001 and
to an alleged abduction attempt from his home in Yandariye Camp on November 2002.
443. On 12 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, sent an urgent appeal concerning the
situation of Aikhazur Bataev, a volunteer with the Society for the Russian-Chechnen
Friendship, and his wife Larisa Vakhaevna Batateva, who have both reportedly been active in
the defence of the rights of migrants and refugees. According to the information received, on 29
January 2004, Larisa Vakhaevna Batateva, reportedly met the Chairperson of the Committee of
Human Rights of the Russian Federation during her visit to the Sathsita refugee camp and
reportedly informed her about violations committed against forced migrants. Following this,
Larisa Vakhaevna Batateva was allegedly threatened by the head of administration of her native
village of Zakan-Yurt, who declared that her family “would have problems” if she and her
husband did not stop their “propaganda activities”. On 10 February 2004, according to the
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alegations received, Alkhazur Bataev, who is registered as a forced migrant and holds a Russian
passport, was detained by the chief police officer and other representatives of Sunzha police in
Sathsita refugee camp and is being held at Sunzha police office, although the police have not
confirmed his whereabouts. Alkhazur Bataev has reportedly also been involved in reporting
human rights violations committed by officials of the Migration Service of Ingushetia at the
Sathsita refugee camp. The special rapporteurs expressed concern that his detention may
represent a reprisal for their activities in reporting human rights violations committed against
forced migrants.
444. On 24 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning reports that on 23 February 2004, a peaceful meeting in central Moscow to
oppose the ongoing armed conflict in Chechnya and to commemorate the sixtieth anniversary of
the mass deportation of the Chechen people from Chechnya to Kazakhstan, was broken up by the
police. It is reported that as the demonstrators commenced a minute of silence to commemorate
the victims of the Chechnya conflict, the police moved in and detained the demonstration
organizers, Lev Ponomarev, Executive Director of the Movement for Human Rights, and
Nikolai Khramov of the Transnational Radical Party, as well as approximately 11 other persons
believed to be members of that party. These people are allegedly currently still being detained in
two separate police stations in Moscow. It is further reported that the Moscow city authorities
had denied the demonstrators permission to hold the meeting, stating that the day was an official
holiday (23 February is reportedly Defence of the Fatherland day, to celebrate Russian armed
forces and their contribution to defending the country), but according to information received,
there were no other activities or gatherings taking place in the area at that time.
445. On 23 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning the situation of Lybkan Bazayeva, a human rights defender and member of
the Memorial Human Rights Centre in Chechnya. According to our information, Lybkan
Bazayeva has been working for the Memorial Human Rights Centre since January 2000. She has
been actively involved in advocating against human rights violations in Chechnya and in the
refugee camps in the territory of Ingushetia. It is reported that in May 2000 Lybkan Bazayeva
filed a complaint against Russia concerning events in Chechnya to the European Court of Human
Rights in Strasbourg, which was reportedly declared admissible by the Court on 16 January
2003. Her application reportedly concerns allegations of indiscriminate bombing by Russian
military planes of civilians (including Lybkan Bazayeva and her family) leaving Grozny on 29
October 1999. According to the allegations received, on 19 October 2003, a group of 20-25
armed men wearing camouflaged uniforms broke into the house of Lybkan Bazayeva in Grozny.
These men failed to present any documentation regarding their identity or permission to search
the house. It is also reported that they intimidated the neighbours, beat members of the family
who were reportedly living as tenants in Lybkan Bazayeva's apartment and only left after they
were convinced that she was not currently living there. At that time, she was reportedly living
elsewhere with acquaintances. Reportedly, the “Memorial” Centre has made repeated inquiries to
the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Chechnya with regard to the attack of 19 October 2003. A
reply by the Deputy Minister of Internal Affairs of Chechnya to the Memorial Centre on January
2004 reportedly stated that Lybkan Bazayeva was an active supporter of Dudayev and
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Maskhadov. According to reports received, following concern for her safety she has been forced
to leave the region temporarily. The special rapporteurs express concern that this attack may be
connected with Lybkan Bazayeva's human rights activities, in particular with regard to the
complaint filed against Russia at the European Court in Strasbourg.
446. On 4 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special
Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers and the Special Rapporteur on the
question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning the situation of Stanislav Markelov, a
human rights lawyer who has worked on behalf of victims of alleged human rights violations in
Chechnya. Markelov is currently representing the family of Zelimkhan Murdalov, a Chechnyan
student who reportedly disappeared in January 2001 following his arrest by Russian Special
Police Detachment (OMON) forces in Grozny, in the court case opened against Sergei Lapin, a
member of OMON, in connection with this disappearance. According to the information
received, on 16 April 2004 Stanislav Markelov was travelling home on the Moscow metro when
he was reportedly attacked by five men, dressed in civilian clothing who reportedly surrounded
him and shouted: “You got what you're asking for. No more speeches from you in court”. They
allegedly hit him on the head with a heavy object causing him to lose consciousness. He
reportedly regained consciousness a few hours later and discovered that his lawyer's licence
card, his passport and his entry card for the state Duma as well as various documents related to
his cases — including those related to the trial of Sergi Lapin - - had been stolen. According to the
information received, Stanislav Markelov was taken to City Hospital No. 68 where he was
diagnosed as suffering from concussion. On 19 April he reportedly presented a medical
certificate of his injuries to the Subway Security Section of Moscow Department of Internal
Affairs No. 8 but the police officer on duty reportedly claimed that the certificate was fake and
stated that he could only file a lost property complaint. On 21 April he also reportedly filed a
complaint about the attack with the Moscow City Department of Internal Affairs. It is reported
that a criminal investigation has not yet been opened. Stanislav Markelov also represented the
family of a victim who disappeared and was allegedly tortured to death by a member of the
Russian special police force, OMON, in Grozny. Markelov also represents a journalist who has
allegedly received death threats for publishing an article in relation to the same torture case. A
criminal investigation into the attacks against Stanislav Markelov has reportedly not been opened
yet. The special rapporteurs express concern that Stanislav Markelov has been targeted for his
human rights activities and, in particular, his work to defend victims of human rights violations
in Chechnya.
447. On 9 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a letter of
allegation concerning recent declarations made by high government officials aiming at
discrediting the work of non-governmental organizations defending human rights.
According to the information received, during a press conference held on 7 May 2004 on the
situation of Russian prisons, the Head of the General Direction of Sentence Enforcement of the
Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation (GUIN) reportedly accused human rights
organizations of being financed by criminal networks and of disseminating false information in
the media. He allegedly declared that there were 163 human rights organizations financed by
oligarchs and stated some names, while also acknowledging that there are more than 360 other
cooperative human rights organizations with whom it is possible to create a civil society. It is
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believed that this declaration came as the response to the recent activities and protests of a
number of human rights NGO against the reportedly deplorable conditions of detainees in
Russia. It is reported that human rights organizations have allegedly played a significant role in
bringing to justice those responsible for torture and ill-treatment of inmates and that last year, as
a result of their activities, three prison employees accused of beating inmates were brought to
justice. It is fhrther reported that several fact-finding commissions sent by the Ministry of Justice
as a result of recent protests and hunger-strikes allegedly concluded that “criminal leaders led
this protests and hunger strikes in order to establish their influence zones”. According to
information received, during his state of the nation address of 26 May 2004, the President of the
Russian Federation allegedly denounced human rights groups critical of his record in front of the
Federation Council and accused some of serving the interests of dubious organizations. It is
believed that these statements partly come in response to the denunciation in the past year by
human rights non-governmental organizations of the curtailing of media freedom, especially in
relation to limiting the access to State-run television in the March 2004 presidential elections, as
well as of reported human rights violations by State authorities in Chechnya. Fear has been
expressed that within the current prevailing context, such accusations and reported portraying of
NGO members as criminals and representatives of foreign enemies of Russia by senior State
officials may result in increasing the vulnerability of human rights defenders within the
Federation. Fear has also been expressed that such statements may contribute directly or
indirectly to endangering the activities and lives of human rights defenders by legitimating their
targeting. The Special Representative calls on the Government of Russia to ensure that all
necessary measures were taken to ensure the full protection of the rights guaranteed by the
Declaration on Human Rights Defenders.
448. On 21 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning the Kazan iluman Rights Center (KHRC), based in Kazan, Tatarstan.
According to the information received, on 5 May 2004, members of the Security Direction of the
Ministry of Internal Affairs required that a draft of KHRC's forthcoming book, Tortures in
Tatarstan, Proportion, Facts, be submitted to the Ministry for review. This book was allegedly
being published in conjunction with the publishing house Kheter. On 6 May, during a press
conference, KHRC announced the release of a new compilation of published articles concerning
human rights violations by the Tatarstan Police entitled “The Law and its victims: Tortures in
Tatarstan”. The previously planned repeat of the press conference was allegedly cancelled by the
direction of “Variant T” TV channel, which challenged the objectivity of the correspondent and
the editor. On 7 May, members of the Office of the Fight Against Economic Crimes of the
Ministry of Internal Affairs (OFEC) accused KHRC of illegal publication of the second book and
claimed that KHRC had used the Kheter publishing house logo, despite in-house publication by
KHRC. On 14 May, the OFEC reportedly initiated an audit of KHRC accounts. It is furthermore
reported that a grenade was found near the door of Mr. Vladimir Chikov, father of Pavel Chikov,
the project director and former chair of KHRC. Mr. V. Chikov had allegedly previously been
contacted by OFEC for an interview concerning the KHRC audit. On 27 May, following a joint
press conference held on 27 May by the KHRC and two other human rights organizations
concerning the alleged acts of harassment against them, it is reported that, later that day, the
KHRC headquarters were forcibly entered and ransacked. Two masked men wearing gloves
reportedly broke into the premises, destroyed equipments and then disappeared. An official
investigation was reportedly opened. It is alleged that the acts mentioned above could be linked
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to KHRC's publications on human rights and were intended to intimidate their members. The
special rapporteurs express concern that the physical integrity of members of KHRC may be at
risk.
449. On 20 July 2004, the Special Representative sent a follow-up letter of allegation
concerning the Society of Russian-Chechen Friendship (SRCF) in Karabulak, Ingushetia,
Russian Federation. According to new information received, on 12 July, at approximately 6.30
p.m., over 20 armed members of the military police allegedly raided the office of the Society of
Russian-Chechen Friendship in the town of Karabulak, Ingushetia. Three members of staff and
another person were reportedly present during the raid, Imran Abdulsalamovich Ezhiev, Zaur
Maripov, Khamzat Kuchiev and his wife, Raisa Kuchiev. The officers allegedly seized computer
equipment and papers addressed to the Society of Russian-Chechen Friendship, the Moscow
Helsinki Group and the chairperson of the Presidential Commission of Human Rights. It is
reported that during the search, the officers found ajar with black powder beside the computers,
which they alleged to be explosive material. According to the information received, Khamzat
Kuchiev, correspondent of the SRCF's Information Centre, sprinkled some of the powder on the
floor to show that it was from a printer cartridge and not explosive. As a result, he was allegedly
arrested and detained under article 222 of the criminal code, which relates to terrorist activities.
Reports indicate that he was released on the night of the 12 July and no charges were brought
against him. It is further alleged that the officers ordered Raisa Kuchiev to bring neighbours into
the office to bear witness to the officers' findings. The witnesses were then reportedly forced to
sign blank sheets of paper. According to reports, Imran Ezhiev, Chairperson of the Chechen and
Ingush branch of SRCF and Councillor to the Russian Deputy of the State Duma advised them
not to follow the officer's instructions. Consequently, an officer reportedly pushed him out of the
office shouting, “You should never have complained about us”. Reports indicate that those
present were verbally abused during the incident. According to the information received, the
military police did not produce a search warrant nor did they present identity cards during the
alleged raid. The special rapporteurs express concern that the alleged raid of the Society of
Russian-Chechen Friendship and the detention of Khamzat Kuchiev may have been carried out
in an attempt to hinder the human rights activities carried out by the organization.
450. On 27 July 2004, the Special Representative sent a letter of allegation concerning the
alleged assassination of Nikolay Girenko, head of the Minority Rights Commission at St.
Petersburg's Scientific Union and chairman of the Ethnical Minority Rights, a leading anti-racist
organization in St Petersburg. He had reportedly been given consultative status with the local
authorities on minority rights and acted as an expert in legal cases against fascists and fascist
organizations. According to the information received, on 20 June 2004 Nikolay Girenko was
assassinated at gun point at his apartment in St Petersburg by two unknown assailants. The
special rapporteurs express concern that the alleged assassination of Nikolay Girenko may be
linked to his human rights activities and in particular his work to defend the rights of ethnic
minorities.
451. On 28 July 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related
intolerance, sent an urgent appeal concerning Dmitri Kraiukhin, director of United Europe, a
non-governmental organization which works to combat racism in Orel, western Russia.
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According to the information received, in June 2003 Dmitri Kraiukhin reportedly informed the
Prosecutor's Office in the Zavodskii district of Ore! about a!!eged acts of vanda!ism and
distribution of anti-Semitic activities carried out by a neo-Nazi organization ca!!ed Russian
Nationa! Unity (RNU). It is reported that, as a resu!t of this comp!aint, a crimina! case was
opened which !ed to two members of RNU being charged with offences under article 282 of the
Russian Crimina! Code on “incitement of nationa!, racia! or re!igious enmity”. The court case
was reportedly due to commence in September 2004 with Dmitri Kraiukhin as the chief witness.
In February 2004, on conclusion of the criminal investigation, the Zavodskii district prosecutor
allegedly gave RNU all the case material, including the contact information for all the case
experts and witnesses. It is alleged that RNTJ activists then began to distribute leaflets in Ore!
and other cities across central Russia accusing Dmitri Kraiukhin of “heresy” and publicizing his
home telephone number and address. Consequently, it is reported that Dmitri Kraiukhin has been
the subject of numerous threats, and he requested that the Zavodskii authorities provide him with
witness protection. This request was allegedly denied. In early July 2004, Dmitri Kraiukhin
reportedly received a death threat through the post which included a photocopy of an article from
the Russian daily newspaper Izvestiya concerning the murder of human rights defender Nikolai
Girenko. Reports indicate that a section of the article regarding Nikolai Girenko's planned
participation in a trial against RNU activists was highlighted. Reportedly, the same threat was
sent to a local police official and editors of three newspapers in the region which have been
critical of extreme nationalist organizations. The special rapporteurs express concern for the
safety of Dmitri Kraiukhin, as these death threats and acts of intimidation may be directly linked
to his anti-racism activities as a human rights defender and more specifically to his participation
in the trial of a neo-Nazi organization.
452. On 7 September 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Fatima Gazieva, human rights
defender and co-founder of the human rights organization Echo of War, and her husband Ilyas
Itaev in Kalinovskaya, Naor, Chechnya. According to the information received, on 3 September
2004 Fatima Gazieva and Ilyas Itaev were allegedly arrested at their home in Kalinovskaya by
Russian-speaking armed men and taken to an unknown location in military trucks. It is reported
that no explanation was given for the arrest. Further reports indicate that, in April 2004, federal
officers allegedly visited the village of Assinovskaya, where Fatima Gazieva lived previously, to
ask about her activities and whereabouts. The special rapporteurs express grave concern for the
safety of Fatima Gazieva and her husband Ilyas Itaev, as this arrest and incommunicado
detention may have been carried out as a direct result of her work as a human rights defender.
453. On 14 September 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal concerning the
situation of the Chechen Committee for National Rescue, a non-governmental organization
working for the protection of human rights, based in Nazran, Republic of Jngushetia, Russian
Federation. According to the information received, on 2 August 2004 the Prosecutor's Office of
the Republic of Ingushetia allegedly filed a complaint against the Chechen Committee for
National Rescue in which it claimed that the Committee produced and distributed extremist
information. It is reported that particular reference was made to press releases distributed by the
Committee between April and June 2004 which allegedly held Russian authorities responsible
for human rights violations carried out in Chechnya, and which incited people to rebel against
the Russian authorities. Reports indicate that Nazran District Court scheduled a hearing of the
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motion on the grounds that such activities allegedly promulgate national discord and were
extremist per se. However, it is reported that the Committee was not notified of the hearing and
hence the case has been postponed. It is feared that, if the Committee is charged under article 9
of Federal Law No. 1 14-FZ on “counteractions to extremist activities”, which may result in the
closure of the Chechen Committee for National Rescue. The special rapporteurs express their
concern that the primary motivation behind these proceedings may be to prevent the Chechen
Committee for National Rescue from carrying out its human rights activities.
454. On 18 October 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal concerning
Ludmilla Ausheva, Fatima Malsagova, Tamara Yandieva, Maddan Albogachieva, Khava
Dolgieva, Motya Mogushkova, Maremm Yusupova, Birlant Shishkhanova, Radimkhat
Yandieva, Madina Khutieva, Fatima Mukhieva, Anna Uzhakhoeva, Maryam Timurzieva, and
Zinaida Batalova, all of whom reside in Ingushetia and work for the International Medical Corps
(IMC). According to the information received, in the aftermath of the 6 February 2004 bomb
attack on the Moscow metro, a leaflet was published by the Ministry of Interior and the Federal
Security Service (FSB), where names and photos of the 14 persons mentioned above were
displayed, claiming that they were wanted by the police and were planning a terrorist attack
similar to that of 6 February. Allegedly, the leaflet was displayed in the Moscow Police
Department and Moscow police stations and in several public places in Moscow, such as metro
stations and at the Sheremetyevo-1 and 2 airports. It is reported that all necessary measures were
later taken by the authorities to get the pictures out of the public domain, and that an internal
investigation into the issue is being conducted by the Moscow City Prosecutor's Office.
According to the information received, on 9 September 2004, the leaflet reappeared slightly
modified, with names and photos of the 14 persons mentioned above, claiming they were wanted
by the FSB and the Ministry of Internal Affairs on suspicion of their involvement in terrorist
activities on the territory of the Russian Federation. Allegedly, the leaflet was published on the
site www.rambler.ru and in the North-Ossetian newspaper Slovo Nahis. The special rapporteurs
have expressed concerns that the reported exposure of Ludmilla Ausheva, Fatima Malsagova,
Tamara Yandieva, Maddan Albogachieva, Khava Dolgieva, Motya Mogushkova, Maremm
Yusupova, Birlant Shishkhanova, Radimkhat Yandieva, Madina Khutieva, Fatima Mukhieva,
Anna Uzhakhoeva, Maryam Timurzieva, Zinaida Batalova, all of whom work for IMC, as
suspected terrorists may be an attempt to prevent their human rights activities.
455. On 6 December 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the
Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Ruslan Susaev,
the head of the organization Civilian's Protest, who also assists the Information Centre of the
Russian-Chechen Friendship Society in Chechnya, his wife, Susanna Susaeva, and his children.
On 4 November 2004, Ruslan Susaev and Susanna Susaeva were stopped at a police roadblock
near Achkoi Martan. The police ordered them out of the car, threw Mr. Susaev to the ground and
searched him. They were taken to the police station in Achkoi Martan, and later to the
Sunzhenskii Regional Department of Internal Affairs (ROVD). The police tried to make Mr.
Susaev confess to a crime, and told him that his family would suffer unless he signed a
confession. He refused to sign, and on the morning of 5 November 2004 they were released. Mr.
Susaev has reportedly been the subject of recent harassment and threats by the security forces in
connection with his work. He collected information about a house raid on 27 August 2004 in the
town of Sernovodsk, allegedly carried out by the so-called “Kadyrovtsy”, members of the
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Chechen Ministry of Interior security forces. During this raid several people were beaten, one
person was killed, and another person was taken away. Mr. Susaev took part in a demonstration
calling for the release of this person. On 28 August 2004, several masked men wearing uniforms
of the security forces raided Mr. Susaev's home. They asked for Mr. Susaev, searched the house,
fired in the air, hit Mr. Susaev's mother in the face, and forced two of the children to lie on the
floor. On 29 August 2004, several men again came looking for him at his home, took two of his
sons to a police station in Grozny, and released them a few hours later. That evening, a car
without licence plates stopped in front of the house, and three men in camouflage uniforms
entered and threatened to torture Mr. Susaev unless he stopped his human rights work. Mr.
Susaev and his family have since been moving from place to place in Chechnya and Jngushetia.
The special rapporteurs expressed their concern that the allegations of ill-treatment, intimidation
and harassment of Mr. Ruslan Susaev and his family may be a result of his activities as a human
rights defender, and aimed at preventing him from further pursuing his human rights work. We
express concern that he and his family may be at risk of torture or other forms of ill-treatment.
Communications received
456. By letter dated 13 April 2004, the Government replied to the letter of allegation sent on
26 January 2004. The Government confirmed that Asian Davietukaev was taken away on 10
January 2004 and reported that, on 18 January 2004, the Shalin district's procurator's office
initiated criminal case No. 36011 on the basis of evidence of abduction of a person under article
126.2 of the Criminal Code. The Government confirmed the finding of his body, and stated that,
on 20 January 2004, the Gudermes district procurator's office initiated criminal case no. 35002
on the basis of evidence of homicide under article 105.1 of the Criminal Code. The examination
of these cases was continuing at the time, and the procurator's office of the Chechen Republic
was monitoring the course of the preliminary investigation procedure.
457. By letter dated 13 April 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 28
January 2004. The Government reported that, on 15 March 2003, the Shah District Procurator's
Office in the Chechen Republic initiated proceedings concerning the previous abduction of Mr.
Imran Ezhiev. In the course of this investigation, it was found that, on 26 January 2004, Mr.
Ezhiev left his home in Yandar for the town of Karabulak by car. The Government stated that, on
his way, Mr. Ezhiev noticed that two vehicles without state registration plates were following his
car. When he stopped at a public phone, the cars continued driving in the direction of Nazran.
According to the Government, Mr. Ezhiev did not report this incident to the law-enforcement
agencies. The Government informed that his statement provided detailed information on the
killing of members of the Society of Russian-Chechnen Friendship (SRCF). These points have
yet not been completely checked, and the results will be made known in due course.
458. By letter dated 29 April 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 12
February 2004. The Government stated that Larisa Vakhaevna Bataeva and Aikhazur Bataev
have never been members of the Society for Russian-Chechnen Friendship or any other human
rights organization. The reply confirmed that Mrs. Bataeva had met the head of administration of
Zakan-Yurt, and denied that she had received any threats in this context. Mrs. Bataeva claims to
be unaware of which persons have been stating that she, as well as her husband, have received
threats, and why they have made such statements. The Government reported that, on 14 February
2004, Mr. Bataev was arrested, suspected of having committed a number of serious offences in
Chechnya. He gave explanations related to the circumstances described in the investigation file,
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and he was released the same day. The Government stated that, on 23 February 2004, the
Achkoy-Martanov district internal affairs office in Chechnya decided not to institute criminal
proceedings against Mr. Bataev, due to lack of evidence that a crime had been committed.
According to the reply, Mr. Bataev has stated that his detention was not linked to any persecution
by the head of the administration of Zakan-Yurt.
459. By letter dated 13 May 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 24
February 2004. The Government reported that, on 18 February 2004, the deputy prefect of
Moscow's Central Administrative District rejected a notification to hold the peaceful meeting
referred to in the communication sent by the Special Representative. The decision was based on
paragraph 4 of the Provisional Regulations on the procedure for notifying the Moscow city
executive authorities of the holding of rallies, street processions, demonstrations and pickets on
streets and squares and in other public places of the city, approved by Russian Presidential
Decree No. 765 of 24 May 1993. According to the reply, the approximate 30 demonstrators were
warned several times that their action had not been authorized by the executive authorities. The
Government confirmed that Lev Ponomarev, Nikolai Khramov and 11 other demonstrators
were arrested, and informed that the arrests were based on article 20.2, paragraphs 1 and 2, of the
Russian Federation Code of Administrative Offences of 30 December 2001. Later, the
Meshchansky and Basmanny district courts heard administrative charges against these people in
judicial proceedings. The reply stated that they were subject to administrative penalties
consisting of a fine in the amount of 15 times the minimum wage (1,500 roubles) for Mr.
Khramov, a fine of 1,000 roubles for Mr. Ponomarev, and fines from 500 to 700 roubles to the
remaining participants. According to the Government, these 13 persons were not detained
beyond the statutory limit in the internal affairs division.
460. By letter dated 15 July 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 23
April 2004. The Government reported that the incident relating to Lybkan Bazayeva is being
investigated. In a witness statement, Mrs. Bazayeva stated that, on 19 October 2003, armed men
in camouflage uniforms burst into the house belonging to her mother-in-law in Grozny. She
stated that they were looking for her and her two sons and that they had beaten tenants living in
the house. According to the Government, her statement had been refuted by the testimony of
eyewitnesses: These armed men did check the documents of some of the persons living in this
house or in its neighbourhood, but, according to the witness, they did not conduct any search or
used physical force. The Government stated that there were still need for further investigation.
Hence, a procedural decision has not yet been taken.
461. By letter dated 16 September 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on
21 June 2004. The Government reported that the Office of the Fight Against Economic Crimes
of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (OFEC) investigated the alleged illegal use of the name of the
Kheter publishing house. In the course of the investigation, the Kazan iluman Rights Centre
(KHRC) stated that the book entitled The Law and its Victims Tatarstan was issued with the
assistance of the Yalkin limited liability company. KHRC also stated that the person who used
the details of the Kheter publishing house in printing the book could not be identified. According
to the Government, on 5 June 2004, OFEC decided not to initiate a criminal case due to lack of
evidence pursuant to article 24.1.2 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. The Procurator's Office
of the Republic of Tatarstan has recognized this decision as justified. As far as the discovery of
the hand grenade on 25 May 2004 is concerned, the Government reported that the Privolzhsky
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district internal affairs authority of the city of Kazan on 1 June 2004 initiated a criminal case on
the basis of evidence of an offence under article 167.1 of the Criminal Code. This provision
relates to unlawful acquisition, transfer, supply, storage, carriage or bearing of firearms, basic
parts thereof, munitions, explosive substances or explosive devices. According to the
Government, on 1 June 2004, the Vakhitovsky district internal affairs authority of Kazan
initiated a criminal case relating to an attack on the office of KHRC and the intentional
destruction of office equipment on the basis of evidence of an offence under article 167.1 of the
Criminal Code. The Government indicated that the persons who committed these offences have
not yet been identified, and that the Office of the Procurator-General of the Russian Federation
monitors the investigation. At the time no definitive decision on these criminal cases had been
taken.
462. By letter dated 16 September 2004, the Government replied to the letter of allegation sent
on 27 July 2004. The Government reported that, relating to the killing of Nikolay Girenko on 19
June 2004, the Saint Petersburg procurator's office initiated criminal proceedings on the basis of
murder pursuant to article 105, paragraph 1, of the Criminal Code. The head of the Saint
Petersburg Central Internal Affairs Department (C lAD) has ordered the creation of a task force
composed of the most experienced members of the Criminal Investigation Department of the
Saint Petersburg and Leningrad oblast C lAD. According to the Government, several possible
versions of the incident have been proposed and are being studied. This includes the suggestion
that the crime was linked to Mr. Girenko's activities as an expert in criminal cases involving
extremism and racism, and also to his commercial activities. The Government stated that efforts
to identify the individuals who committed the crime were continuing.
463. On 20 September 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 28 July 2004
concerning the case against two members of Russian National Unity (RNU). The Government
claims that the case is still pending before the Zavodsky district court of the city of Orel, the
question not yet having been examined. The next judicial sitting at the time of this
communication was for the 31 August 2004. The Government further states that Dmitri
Kraiukhin gave his personal details in court but did not request that the hearing be held behind
closed doors. Moreover, all the witnesses' personal details are annexed to the bill of indictment
in line with the law in force (arts. 217, 220 and 222). The Government has no information that it
was in fact the District Procurator who had distributed such information to the public. The
Government further claims that, despite the fact that leaflets containing information concerning
Mr. Kraiukhin were distributed in the city of Orel, Bryansk and some other oblasts, there was
nothing in such leaflets requesting Mr. Kraiukhin to refuse to testify or to give false testimony.
Mr. Kraiukhin was nevertheless offered protection by special-reaction detachment officers as
well as by having his phone conversations monitored. He refused such protection. The
investigation section of the Sovetsky district internal affairs office is currently investigating
threats received by Mr. Kraiukhin relating to his participation in the trial against RNU.
464. By letter 13 October 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 7
September 2004. The Government stated that Fatima Gazieva and Ilyas Itaev have not been
subject to criminal prosecution nor been detained on suspicion of committing offences. It stated
that no complaints or declarations have been received from them by the Procurator's Office of
the Chechen Republic. The Government confirmed that Mrs. Gazieva has been involved in the
organization Echoes of War, and reported that she ended her involvement in 1999. It was not
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known to Mrs. Gazieva that officers of the federal forces had visited the village of Assinovskaya
in Sunzha district of the Chechen Republic to obtain information about her activities and
whereabouts. According to the reply, on 3 September 2004, representatives of federal structures
brought Mrs. Gazieva, Mr. Itaev and a number of other inhabitants of the Chechen Republic to
the settlement of Khankala. The purpose was to elucidate any kinship relations with members of
alleged illegal armed formations, including the Basaevs, Maskhadovs and Umarovs. The reply
indicated that no unlawfhl actions were committed against these persons under questioning. On 4
September 2004, Mrs. Gazaeva and Mr. Itaev were brought by a helicopter of the federal forces
to the village of Shchelkovskaya, and they returned to the village of Kalinovskaya. According to
the reply, Mrs. Gazaeva and Mr. Itaev have no complaints in this regard.
465. By letter dated 18 November 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on
14 September 2004 concerning the Chechen Committee for National Rescue. Unfortunately,
the English translation was not available in time to be examined and included in this report, and
will thus be reported next year.
Observations
466. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its numerous responses, which
attest to its willingness to cooperate with her mandate. She welcomes the steps taken by the
Government with regards to investigating allegations of abuses. She notes, however, that no
investigation has so far resulted in the identification, charging and sentencing of perpetrators. As
a result, impunity for violations against human right defenders remains high. She refers to her
main report to the Commission on Human Rights for a detailed analysis of the trends in the
situation of human rights defenders in the Russian Federation, and for her observations to these
trends. In view of the numerous reports of violations, she encourages the Government to review
favourably her request sent on 20 September 2004 for an invitation to conduct an official visit to
the country.
Rwanda
Communications envoyées
467. Le 15 juillet 2004, la ReprCsentante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special
sur la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, a envoyé un appel
urgent sur la Commission parlementaire etablie fin 2003, chargee de mener des enquêtes sur
l'eventuelle propagation de l'ideologie genocidaire au Rwanda, et qui aurait rendu ses
conclusions le 27 juin 2004. Les recommandations de la Commission auraient ete adoptees par le
Parlement et le rapport devrait être transmis au Sénat prochainement. Selon les informations
communiquées, il semblerait que l'interpretation faite par la Commission de la loi contre
l'ideologie genocidaire serait de nature a limiter toute opposition, méme moderee, au
Gouvernement et a restreindre la pleine jouissance du droit a la liberte d'expression et d'opinion
au Rwanda, en particulier a l'egard des defenseurs des droits de l'homme. Ainsi, il a ete rapporté
que, suite aux recommandations de la Commission, le Parlement aurait demande au
Gouvernement de dissoudre la Ligue rwandaise pour la promotion et la defense des droits de
l'homme (LIPRODHOR) ainsi que quatre autres organizations de la société civile au motif
qu'elles propageraient des idees genocidaires. Par ailleurs, au cours de debats parlementaires, la
Commission aurait egalement demande au Gouvernement de prendre des mesures a l'encontre de
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plusieurs ONG internationales prCsentes dans le pays, en particulier Care international, Trocaire,
11.11.11 and Norwegian's People's Aid, comme ayant des ideologies genocidaires. Plusieurs
Eglises, ainsi que des dirigeants religieux, auraient egalement etc mises a l'index. Des craintes
ont ete exprimées pour la sécurité personnelle de plusieurs responsables de la LIPRODHOR du
fait qu'une dizaine d'entre eux auraient ete nommément cites dans le rapport de la Commission.
Suite a ces événements, les 2 et 4juillet, six defenseurs des droits de l'homme, membres actifs
de la LIPRODHOR, dont Aloys Habimana, Ruben Niyibizi, Felicien Dufitumukiza, Ndagijimana
Balthazar, Fabien Bakizanye et Jean Damascéne Ntaganzwa, auraient quitté le Rwanda.
Observations
468. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication.
Saudi Arabia
Communications sent
469. On 11 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning Prince Sultan bin Turki, a member of the ruling family, who has reportedly
been calling for peacefhl political, economic and judicial reforms in the country since January
2003. He advocated in the world media for transparency, accountability, and an overhaul of the
Saudi judicial system. According to information received, Sultan Bin Turki, who had been living
abroad, was abducted on 12 June 2003 in Collonges-Bellerive, Switzerland, by five masked men
who struck him unconscious and drugged him. He was reportedly transported against his will to
Riyadh, where he remained in the hospital for two months due to the effects of the drug he was
given, which reportedly resulted in his losing two-thirds of the use of his lungs. It is reported that
he was then put under house arrest in his villa of the Al-Morooj neighborhood of Riyadh. By the
end of January 2004, he reportedly gave interviews to the BBC English and Arabic services and
to Al-Jazeera TV channel, during which he revealed his kidnapping and arrest. On 26 January
2004, following his public statements, he was reportedly arrested and moved to the Al-Hair
prison, where he is believed to still be detained. It is not clear whether charges have been brought
against him.
470. On 18 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the
Chairman-Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, sent an urgent appeal
concerning the reported arrest of the following 11 pro-democracy activists: Dr. Matrouk al-
Falih, a professor of political science at King Sa'ud University, Riyadh, Dr. Abdullah al-
ilamid, a former professor of contemporary literature at Imam Muhammad bin Sa'ud
University, Riyadh, Muhammad Sa'id Tayyab, a retired journalist from Jeddah, Dr. Tawfiq al-
Qussayyir, a professor of electronics at King Sa'ud University in Riyadh, Suleyman al-
Rashudi, a retired lawyer in Riyadh, Najib Al Khunaizi, from Qateef, Khalid Al-ilameed,
from Riyadh, Amir Abu Khamsin, from Al Hasa, Ali Al Dumaini, Adnan Al Shikes, and
Abdulkarim Al Juhaiman, from Riyadh. According to information received, these persons
were arrested on 15 March 2004 by the Mabahith (secret police), for criticizing the Government-
appointed National Commission on Human Rights (NCHR), which was established by the
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Government over a week ago, and for planning to set up their own “Saudi Independent Human
Rights Committee”, in a petition delivered to the Government and signed by 53 intellectuals. It is
reported that they have criticized NCHR for its lack of independence from the Government and
are suspected of issuing “statements which do not serve the unity of the country and the cohesion
of society”. They are reportedly held incommunicado at the General Intelligence (al-Mabahith al-
‘Amma) in ‘Ulaysha, in the capital, Riyadh. It is believed that three detainees were released on
16 March, although their names are not known.
471. On 23 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, sent a follow-up urgent appeal
concerning the case of Dr Matrouk aI-Falih, Dr Abdullah al-ilamid, Muhammad Sa'id
Tayyab, Dr Tawfiq aI-Qussayyir, Suleyman al-Rashudi, Najib Al Khunaizi, Khalid Al-
ilameed, Amir Abu Khamsin, A u Al Dumaini, and Adnan Al Shikes. According to more
recent information received, nine of the 12 people listed above were released between 17 and 29
March 2004, after they were allegedly forced to sign a pledge to end their participation in any
political or human rights activities and to stop calling for reforms in the Kingdom. Dr. Matrouk
al-Falih, Dr. Abdullah al-Hamid and Ali Al Dumaini are believed to remain in incommunicado
detention because of their refhsal to sign this pledge. It is reported that, to date, no charges have
been filed against them and that they have been denied access to their lawyers since their arrests.
472. On 31 August 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal regarding the situation of Mazen Saleh bin Mohammed al-ilussein al-Tammimi,
human rights defender and founding member of Al-Karama human rights organization in Saudi
Arabia. According to the information received, on 31 May 2004 Mazen Saleh bin Mohammed al-
Hussein al-Tammimi was reportedly arrested at his family home in Damman, along with his wife
and four children, all below the age of 6. His arrest was allegedly connected to his participation
in a meeting on the issues of detainees in the Gulf, Guantánamo Bay and Irak which took place
on 27 May in Qatar. Although his family were reportedly released the following day, sources
indicate that Mazen Saleh bin Mohammed al-Hussein al-Tammimi is still being held in
incommunicado detention in the offices of Saudi Arabia's General Intelligence service (al-
Mabahith al-'Amma) in Damman. It is further alleged that Mazen Saleh bin Mohammed al-
Hussein al-Tammimi was allegedly subjected to ill treatment at the time of his arrest. Concern
has been expressed that Mazen Saleh bin Mohammed al-Hussein al-Tammimi may have been
arrested and detained as a direct result of his human rights activities. It is reported that in 2004 he
was appointed Al-Karama representative for the Khobar region for which he was responsible for
reporting on all cases of human rights violations, particularly those relating to arbitrary
detention. It is alleged that his work was under close scrutiny of the Saudi security forces. Fear
has also been expressed for the physical and psychological integrity of Mazen Saleh bin
Mohammed al-Hussein al-Tammimi as he is physically handicapped and may be at risk of
torture and other forms of ill treatment while in custody.
473. On 17 November 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special
Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers and the Chairman-Rapporteur of the
Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, sent an urgent appeal regarding Abdul Rahman Al-
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Lahem, a lawyer and member of the Arab Commission on Human Rights. Abdul Rahman Al-
Lahem is part of the legal team defending three reform activists, Abdullah Al-Hamed, Au Al-
Demaini and Matruk Al-Faleh, who were arrested in March 2004 and are currently on trial in
Riyadh for petitioning and issuing statements demanding political reforms and an end to
institutional repression of civil rights due to the war on terrorism. According to the allegations
received, Mr. Al-Lahem was arrested by the Saudi intelligence forces on 6 November 2004
following a letter he sent to Crown Prince Abdullah on behalf of the defendants, which accused
the trial judges of denying the three men a fair trial through delaying tactics, judicial bias and the
denial of the right to a public trial, including the right of international and national media to
attend. Concern has been expressed that his arrest may be linked to his work as legal counsel to
the imprisoned reform activists. Concern is heightened by the fact that on 17 March 2004, Mr.
Al-Lahem had reportedly already been arrested and detained for 8 days in connection with his
active defense and support of the three accused.
Communications received
474. By letter dated 12 August 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by
the Special Representative on 26 April 2004 with reference to Dr. Matrouk aI-Falih, Dr.
Abdullah al-ilamid, Muhammad Sa'id Tayyab, Dr. Tawfiq aI-Qussayyir, Suleyman at-
Rashudi, Najib At Khunaizi, Khatid At-ilameed, Amir Abu Khamsin, Au At Dumaini, and
Adnan At Shikes. According to the Government, the aforementioned were arrested after they
held several meetings. Following an investigation, they were charged with engaging in acts
which justified terrorism, encouraged violence and incited civil disturbance. The Government
stated that, after they admitted their misguided involvement, apologized and requested that all
criminal proceedings against them be dropped, Dr. Tawfiq al-Qussayyir was released on 27
March and Muhammad Sa'id Tayyab and Suleyman al-Rashudi on 28-29 April. Dr. Matrouk al-
Falih, Dr. Abdullah al-Hamid and Ali Al Dumaini were charged with organising the meetings
and their cases have been referred to the courts for judgement. The Government informed the
Special Representative that the accused have enjoyed their full rights at all times. The first
hearing began on 9 August and the second is due to begin on 23 August 2004.
Observations
475. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its response, but regrets the
absence of replies to numerous other communications sent. She expresses her concern at the
reports of arbitrary arrests of human rights defenders in Saudi Arabia.
Serbia and Montenegro
Communications sent
476. On 22 December 2003, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal regarding
alleged threats made against Goran Stoparic, a former member of the Serbian security forces'
Special Anti-Terrorist Unit, to discourage him from providing testimony in court of human rights
abuses reportedly committed by other members of the security forces. According to information
received, Goran Stoparic was due to testify on 8 December 2003 at the trial of Sasa Cvjetan for
the killing of 19 ethnic Albanian children, women and men by Serbian security forces in
Podujevo during the 1999 Kosovo war. It is reported that, a few minutes before testimony was
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due to be given, Goran Stoparic initially cancelled his appearance, saying he was unwell, after
being threatened by the commanding officer (whose reported name is available to me) of his
former unit and told to conceal the truth, and that the commander's brother was allegedly among
the perpetrators of the crime. Information further indicates that Goran Stoparic subsequently
went on to give his testimony. Concern has been expressed that the alleged threat was aimed at
deterring Stoparic from testifying on behalf of human rights and that he, and other potential
witnesses in the allged human rights abuses, may as a result be in need of protection.
477. On 31 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning the situation of the office of the ilelsinki Committee for iluman Rights in
Serbia. According to the information received, on 18 March 2004, following the publication by
the Helsinki Committee of Military Secret, a book which reportedly documents the political
activities of the military during the rule of President Milosevic, its author, Viadan Vlajkovic,
was allegedly arrested and placed in custody. According to the allegation, he is under
investigation for crimes related to the disclosure of military secrets. On 26 March 2004, a search
warrant was issued against the Helsinki Committee offices in Belgrade, their offices raided by
military police, and all 251 copies of Military Secrets were temporarily confiscated. On 29
March 2004, the chair of the Helsinki Committee, Sonja Biserko, was reportedly summoned to
give testimony to a military court. Concern has been expressed that the raid against the Helsinki
Committee's offices and confiscation of the bookMilitary Secrets and arrest of his author may
represent an attempt to obstruct the legitimate efforts of the Helsinki Committee to monitor and
help understand how the armed forces of FRY functioned during the Milosevic era.
478. On 12 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a letter of
allegation concerning attacks against journalists, who are believed to have been targeted for their
reporting on human rights abuses, in particular during the Milosevic era. In particular, reports
were received indicating that on 28 March 2004, a bomb was found under a vehicle of the
independent television programme B92 TV, while the journalists were in Mitrovica to report on
the upsurge of violence in Kosovo. On 3 May, Masan Lekic, a B92 reporter, was reportedly
attacked as he was conducting an investigation on Milorad “Legija” Lukovic, the main suspect in
the assassination of former Prime Minister Zoran Djindjic. It is reported that his attackers first
asked him which television company he was working for and, when he answered B92, the media
in the country which has been the most active in denouncing human rights violations by the
Milosevic regime, they allegedly threw his camera to the ground and seized the tape.
479. On 30 September 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Mrs. Svetlana Djordjevic.
According to information received, in July 2003 Svetlana Djordjevic published a book entitled
Testimonies about Kosovo, in which she reportedly described human rights violations, such as
evictions, mistreatment and killing of Albanian civilians perpetrated by the police in Kosovo in
1998 and 1999, until the end of the NATO intervention. The book allegedly gives the fhll names
of police officers, commanders and citizens who took part in human rights violations in the
province. Immediately after the publication of this book, Svetlana Djordjevic began receiving
anonymous phone calls at her home and threatening notes stuck on the door of her flat in Vranje.
On 27 June 2004, she was the victim of a physical attack. An unidentified man burst into her
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apartment, grabbed her mouth and injected her in left upper arm with unidentified liquid. While
she was still conscious, he ordered her to go out publicly on television and deny all she wrote. He
then left, leaving a red rose in her hand, a sign which suggest that the threats may come from
members of the now-disbanded Special Operation Unit, whose misdeeds are pointed out in the
book. Svetlana Djordjevic was found an hour after by her husband and transferred to hospital.
An investigation was launched, but no information has yet been revealed. Mrs. Djordjevic was
then granted special protection by the police. However, the policemen who were supposed to
ensure her protection are reported to be the ones that she denounced in her book. Moreover, she
and the people with whom she lived have recently been subjected to repeated acts of harassment
from the police. As a consequence, she is now reported to live in hiding. In view of the threats
and assault of which she has been the victim, concerns are expressed for Mrs. Djordjevic's
physical and psychological integrity.
Observations
480. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication.
Sri Lanka
Communications sent
481. On 3 December 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the
Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal regarding Mr. Uswatta
Liyanage Anthony Joseph Perera, who has been active in combating torture and child abuse,
and to provide assistance to the victims in obtaining legal advice and medical attention.
According to the allegations received, on 22 November 2004, Uswatta Liyanage Anthony
Joseph Perera received a phone call telling him to put an end to his human rights work if he
wanted to live. He has brought these threats to the attention of the National Human Rights
Commission (NHRC) in a letter dated 25 November 2004. Concern is expressed that the threats
against Mr. U.L.A. Joseph Perera may be aimed at preventing him from further assisting Mr.
Lalith Rajapakse, an alleged torture victim, who was the subject of an urgent appeal by the
Special Rapporteur on the question of torture (E/CN.4/2004/56/Add. 1, para. 1509). He has filed
a fhndamental rights application and is a complainant in a torture case against police officers,
which is pending before the Negombo High Court. Mr. Rajapakse as well has complained about
threats to his life. These concerns are reinforced by the death of Mr. Gerald Perera, a torture
victim, and the subject of an urgent appeal of the Special Rapporteur on the question of torture,
dated 22 November 2004 (see also E/CN.4/2003/68/Add.1, para. 1571, and
E/CN.4/2004/56/Add.1, para. 1557). He was a successful plaintiff in a fundamental human rights
case relating to torture. He was due to testify on 2 December 2004 in the criminal case against
the policemen who tortured him, but was shot on 21 November and died of the wounds on 24
November.
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
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482. By letter dated 23 March 2004, the Government of Sri Lanka replied to the urgent appeal
sent jointly with the Special Rapporteur on the question of torture on 25 September 2003. The
Government referred to the allegations concerning the arrest and torture of W.A. Phanapala
Perera, and reported that the Supreme Court had ordered the perpetrators, three police officers,
to pay compensation and costs to W.A. Dhanapala Perera. The Supreme Court ordered the
Superintendent of Police (SRI) and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to take appropriate
action against these officers. The Government stated that the Senior Superintendent of Police,
Kaluthara, had started an initial inquiry against the police officers against whom there were
findings in the “Fundamental Rights” case. The charges had, on 22 July 2003, been brought up
against the concerned police officers for torture. Relevant inquiries were in progress at the time.
According to the Government, STU forwarded extracts of the investigation notes to the Attorney-
General's Department on 11 January 2004 seeking advise as to whether there is a possibility to
consider charges against the concerned police officers under the Convention against Torture Act.
The matter was at the time under consideration by the Attorney-General.
Observations
483. The Special Representative would like to thank the Government for its response to last
year's communication, and awaits the arrival of a reply to its most recent communication.
Sudan
Communications sent
484. On 6 January 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Special Rapporteur on the question of
torture, sent a follow-up urgent appeal concerning the situation of Dr. Mudawi Ibrahim Adam,
Director of the Sudan Social Development Organization (SUDO), a voluntary organization
created to promote sustainable development and human rights, which has organized a number of
workshops on subjects connected with human rights and is also reportedly engaged in
humanitarian activities; it has recently provided non-food items to internally displaced persons in
Darfur. According to the information received, Dr. Mudawi Ibrahim Adam was reportedly
arrested at his home in Khartoum on 28 December 2003 and is reportedly held in Kober Prison
in Khartoum North, where he is believed to be interrogated by the National Security Forces. The
reasons for his arrest are allegedly not known and he has reportedly not been charged with any
offence. Concern has been expressed that he may have been arrested in connection with his
activities in defence of human rights. In the light of a recent visit made by Dr. Mudawi Ibrahim
Adam to Darfhr and previous reports received according to which people seeking or providing
information on the region have been subjected to torture and other forms of ill-treatment by the
National Security forces, fears have been expressed for his safety. In this connection, we would
like to refer again to the case ofjournalist Yusuf al-Bashir Musa, who was reportedly arrested
and severely beaten by the security forces in Darfur in May 2003, after he allegedly wrote an
article about the destruction of Sudan air force planes and helicopters in El Fashir airport by the
Sudan Liberation Army (SLA).
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485. On 8 January 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Waiel Taha, a 23-year-
old student and member of the Sudan Organization against Torture (SOAT) student network,
who was reportedly arrested by members of the National Security Agency (NSA) outside
Khartoum University Student Union Building on Nile Street on 5 January 2004. It is reported
that he was subsequently taken to an undisclosed location and that his whereabouts are unknown
since then. A delegation from the Khartoum Student Union reportedly went to the NSA office
and requested information on his whereabouts. However, the NSA allegedly denied that he had
been arrested. According to the information received, another student, Yousif Fat'h Al
Rahman, was reportedly arrested with Waiel Taha. He reportedly confirmed that they were both
taken by force by nine individuals on a Toyota pick-up truck, 2002 model, and that they were
subsequently separated. YousifFat'h Al Rahman was reportedly taken to the NSA building near
Old Khartoum High School, where he was allegedly punched on the face, beaten on the sole of
the feet and back, kicked, pressed hard on the stomach, forced to drink three litres of water with
a bottle inserted to the throat, strangled and subjected to death threats by five security officers.
He was reportedly hurled, blindfolded and handcuffed, into a road near Mahmood Sharief
Station in Bun on 6 January 2004. Concern has been expressed that Waiel Taha's arrest may be
linked to his participation, together with the Khartoum University Student Union in the
organization of a series of briefing and public talks regarding disturbances which allegedly
occurred on 3 and 4 January 2004 at Khartoum University between female students and guards.
It is alleged that during the disturbances students were beaten by the guards with metal wires and
water hoses. Some of the injured students allegedly pressed charges against the university
guards. In view of the reported incommunicado detention of Waiel Taha at an undisclosed
location and allegations concerning the torture and other forms of ill-treatment of Yousif Fat'h
Al Rahman while in custody, fears have been expressed that Waiel Taha may also be at risk of
torture and other forms of ill-treatment.
486. On 5 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, sent an urgent appeal concerning Salih
Mahmoud Osman, a human rights defender and member of the Sudan Organization Against
Torture (SOAT) lawyers' network, who was reportedly arrested at his home in Wad-Madani,
capital of the Central Region in Sudan, at 11 p.m. on Sunday 1 February 2004. Reports indicate
that he is currently being held at the National Security Agency (NSA) offices in Wad Madani,
where he is reportedly being interrogated. Although Mr. Salih has not been formally charged
with any offence, it is believed that he might have been arrested in connection with his activities
in defence of human rights, in particular the fact that he provides free legal aid and legal
representation to victims of human rights abuses and to those who face capital punishment or
severe punishments (amputation and cross-amputation) in Darfur region, and to the fact that he
has written articles and researches on the current conflict in Darfhr. Information received also
indicates that Mr. Salih was suffering from jaundice at the time of his arrest and has not
recovered. It is mentioned that his wife has reportedly not been allowed to see him but she was
allowed to bring him food as his ill health needs a special diet.
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487. On 23 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-up
urgent appeal concerning Dr. Mudawi Ibrahim Adam, Director of the Sudan Social
Development Organization (SUDO), an organization promoting sustainable development and
human rights, through workshops on human rights-related issues and engagement in
humanitarian work. According to more recent information received, on 8 February 2004, Mr.
Adam was brought before the Attorney-General and charged with crimes against the State under
articles 50, 51, 56, 63 and 64 of the Penal Code. It is reported that article 50 relates to
undermining the constitutional system or the unity of the country and article 51 relates to waging
war against the State, or supporting those who do so. Both are allegedly punishable by death and
do not allow release on bail. Mr. Adam is reportedly now held in police custody and has been
allowed to see his wife and lawyer only in the presence of police. He is apparently not allowed
books or newspapers, but is allowed to watch TV. Dr. Mudawi, who was reportedly arrested at
his home in Khartoum on 28 December 2003 after visiting the area of Darfur, was first held
under article 31 of the National Security Forces Act in the National Security Centre and in the
political section of Kober prison. He went on hunger strike demanding to be released or charged.
He ended the hunger strike after two days, when he was brought before the Attorney-General.
488. On 5 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and
protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special Rapporteur on the
independence of judges and lawyers and the Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent
an urgent appeal concerning Baroud Sandal Ragab, Ismail Oman, Mohamed ilaroun,
Mohamed ShariefAli and Abdalla Aldoma, all lawyers. It is alleged that they were arrested on
19 March in Khartoum, and are being held incommunicado in a special section of Kober prison.
Abdalla Aldoma, a prominent member of the opposition Umma party, presided over a delegation
of that party to the National Committee for the Development and Restoration of Social
Infrastructure in Darfur. It is alleged that his arrest is linked to the delegation's withdrawal from
that Committee. The other four lawyers are members of the Popular Congress, another
opposition party. Their arrest is allegedly related to their participation in a number of
demonstrations with displaced persons from Darfur, denouncing the lack of shelter and food.
489. On 12 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and
protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-up urgent appeal
concerning the situation of Osman Adam Abdel Mawla, a human rights defender and member
of the Nyala branch of the Sudan Social Development Organization (SUDO), which promotes
sustainable development and human rights through workshops on human rights-related issues
and engagement in humanitarian work. According to the information received, on S May 2004,
Osman Adam Abdel Mawla was arrested by security forces in Zalingy. He is reportedly being
held at the security offices in Zalingy and has allegedly not had any charges brought against him.
It should be noted in this respect that the Director of SUDO, Dr. Mudawi Ibrahim Adam, who
was previously subject to urgent appeals in relation to his reported involvement in humanitarian
work in Darfhr and his reporting on the human rights situation in the area. In this context,
concern has been expressed that Osman Adam Abdel Mawla may have been targeted for his
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human rights work and in particular his work with SUDO, which has recently provided
assistance to internally displaced people (IDPs) in the Darfur region.
490. On 12 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and
protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special Rapporteur on the
question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Nureddin Mohammad Abdel Rahim,
omda, or mayor, of Shoba, and Bahr al-Din Abdullah Rifah, omda of Jabalsi. On 9 May 2004 it
is alleged that the two men were arrested in the street in Kabkabiya, North Darfur state, after a
meeting called by the International Committee of the Red Cross. It is reported that they had
provided information on human rights violations by Government-supported militia in the region,
including information on burnt villages, killings and mass graves. It is alleged that the men are
held incommunicado. In view of their alleged detention incommunicado, concern is expressed
that Nureddin Mohammad Abdel Rahim and Bahr al-Din Abdullah Rifah may be at risk of
torture or other forms of ill-treatment.
491. On 3 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-up
urgent appeal concerning the situation of Osman Adam Abdel Mawla, a member of SUDO.
According to the information received, Osman Abdel Mawla was reportedly arrested on 5 May
2004 and held at the security offices in Zalingy during which time he was reportedly neither
interrogated nor informed of the reason for his detention. He was reportedly released on 18 May.
The Special Representative welcomes the release of Osman Abdel Mawla but remains concerned
at information received that since his release, he has been denied the necessary permit to travel
outside Nyala. Concern has been expressed that this alleged restriction on his freedom of
movement may represent an attempt at preventing aim from canying out his human rights
activities and in particular from reporting on the human rights situation on Darfur.
492. On 18 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, sent an urgent appeal concerning the situation of
Adel Abdullah Nasir Aldeain Saeed, a lawyer with the Sudan Organization Against Torture
(SOAT) network in Nyala, which works at providing free legal aid services to persons sentenced
to death, amputation, cross-amputation and any other inhumane and degrading punishments.
According to the information received, on 16 June 2004, Ad d Abdullah Nasir Aldeain Saeed
was reportedly arrested by the security forces at his office at 1 p.m. and taken to the security
forces offices in Nyala. He has reportedly not been formerly charged and has been denied any
visits by his family or lawyers. Concern is expressed that Mr. Ad d Abdullah Nasir Aldeain's
arrest may be related to his human rights work in particular his monitoring activities and a
petition he sent, together with other lawyers, to the director of the security forces in Nyala
demanding that the detainees currently being held without legal representation at the security
forces detention centre be charged and brought to court in a fair trial or be immediately released
if there are no valid charges against them.
493. On 21 July 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
question of torture, sent a follow-up urgent appeal concerning the situation of Salih Mahmoud
Osman, a Human Rights lawyer with SOAT. It is reported that, on 1 February 2004, Salih
Mahmoud Osman was arrested by members of the National Security Agency (NSA) at his home
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in Wad-Madani. Reports indicate that he has been held in incommunicado detention since then
and that no official charge has been brought against him. According to new reports received, on
30 June 2004 Salih Mahmoud Osman began a hunger strike in protest against his detention.
Serious concern is expressed for the health and physical integrity of Salih Mahmoud Osman,
who was reportedly suffering from jaundice at the time of his arrest and who also suffers from
diabetes and high blood pressure. Concern is also expressed that Salih Mahmoud Osman ‘s arrest
may be related to his work as a human rights lawyer and, in particular, to his provision of free
legal representation to detainees facing capital punishment and to victims of human rights abuses
in the Darfur province.
494. On 3 August 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and
protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special Rapporteur on the
independence of judges and lawyers, sent an urgent appeal concerning the situation of Aba Zer
Ahmed Abu Al Bashir, a lawyer, member of the Berti Tribe and human rights defender in
Nyala, Sudan. According to the information received, on 24th July 2004, Aba Zer Ahmed Abu
Al Bashir was reportedly arrested by the security forces at his office in Nyala and taken to the
security forces' offices in Nyala where he currently remains in detention. He has reportedly not
been formerly charged and has been denied any visits by his family or lawyers. Concern is
expressed that Zer Ahmed Abu Al Bashir ‘s arrest may be related to his human rights activities
and in particular to a written request which he sent to the state Governor of Southern Darfur on
16 July 2004, together with 10 other peace activists, requesting that the conflict in the area come
to an end. Concern is heightened by reports that 10 peace activists and tribal leaders, parties to
the request, were also arrested
495. On 2 September 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal concerning the
situation of Dr. Isam Siddig, Chairman of the Sudanese Peace Forum. According to the
information received, during March 2004, Dr. Isam Siddig was reportedly arrested by Sudanese
Security forces at his home in the Khartoum suburb of El Gireif Gharb. He was allegedly
brought to the National Security headquarters in North Khartoum where he was held until 10
p.m. , then ordered to report on a daily basis for the next five days. Information indicates that he
was detained from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. every day and was reportedly questioned about his
activities with the Sudanese Peace Forum. According to further reports, on 18 August 2004 Dr.
Isam Siddig was arrested at his office in Khartoum by three agents of the Sudanese Security
forces. He was allegedly ordered to report to the Security Forces headquarters every day, where
he is still being held on a daily basis from 9 a.m. until 10p.m. Whilst in custody, he has not been
questioned nor has he been told the reason for his arrest. Concern has been expressed that Dr.
Isam Siddig may have been arrested and detained as a direct result of his human rights activities
as Chairman of the Sudanese Peace Forum. Concern has been heightened as this is the second
time that he has been reportedly arrested for no apparent reason.
496. On 6 September 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the
Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent a letter of allegation concerning the cases
mentioned below. Faisal El Bagir, a freelance journalist and correspondent for Reporter Sans
Frontiêres in Sudan and a member of SOAT, has allegedly been detained repeatedly in
connection with his work as a journalist and human rights defender. In particular, he was
detained on 8 June 2003 at Khartoum airport by the security forces as he was returning from
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Athens after attending a conference on the Designs for Democratic Media in Iraq. It is reported
that his luggage was searched, his passport confiscated and he was interrogated on his
journalistic activities. On 26 July 2003, he was detained again as he was returning from Dhaka
where he had attended a meeting on children's rights and on 16 August, he was reportedly
summoned by the political section of the security forces and interrogated about his activities and
links with SOAT. It is reported that he was summoned again by the press section of the security
forces on 11 October following a press release defending freedom of expression, one which was
signed by over 250 journalists, and then he was detained again on 10 January 2004. Gasim
Taha, a journalist working for the daily Al Sahafa, and Muhanad ilusain, working forAkhbar
Al Youm, were detained by the security forces in Nyala on 15 November 2003, released on the
same day and ordered to report weekly to the security office. Their arrest followed a visit on 13
November 2003 to the villages of Singita and Oda in Southern Darfur after an attack of the two
villages by Arab militia, during which the journalists filmed and photographed the village and
the destruction of houses and farms. It is believed that their arrest was related to their reporting
activities on the human rights situation in the Darfur region.
497. On 6 September 2004, the Special Representative sent a letter of allegation concerning
Murtada Al Gahli, ajournalist and SOAT staff member, who was summoned on 11 October
2003 following the release of a press statement calling for the respect of freedom of expression
that was signed by over 250 journalists. In December 2003, he was reportedly put under
investigation in connection with several articles he had written in the newspaper AlAyam and the
newspaper was reportedly order by the National Security Agency to cancel his column.
498. On 6 September 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the
Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent a letter of allegation concerning the arrest of
some 45 students from the University of Bkhat al Rodah, Al Duwain, on 17 March 2003 after
protesting against a decision by the dean to refuse the establishment of a student union. It is
reported that the police used rocks, pebbles, electric baton and tear gas resulting in the injuring of
many students including Jmjad Taha Hussain, Faiza Al taieb Omer, Limia Osman. The students
were reportedly taken to the security office and detained for three hours all in the same room
without opened windows or fan. Upon their release, they were reportedly order to evacuate their
university rooms.
499. On 17 September 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the
Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent a follow-up letter of allegation concerning
Waiel Taha, a student and member of the SOAT student network in Sudan. According to the
new information received, he was released on bail on 7 January 2004. It is alleged that while in
custody he was tied to a chair, blindfolded with a shirt and beaten on his genitals and other parts
of his body with a water hose, and that he was threatened with rape. He was reportedly charged
by the Chief Persecutor of the Crime Against the State with instigating students, illegal
occupation of a room used by a guard and the destruction of a Student Support Fund's banner,
under articles 144 (Intimidation) and 182 (Criminal mischief) of the Penal Code of 1991.
Although he was released on bail, it is reported that he was ordered to report back to the Crime
Against the State Office on 8 and 11 January 2004.
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500. On 6 October 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Mr. Faisal Dawood
Abd Alrahman, 26, a fourth-year economics student, Secretary-General of the Darfur Student
Association at the University of Khartoum. According to the information received, on 23
September 2004 at 11 a.m., eight officers from National Security Agency (NSA) arrested Mr.
Faisal Dawood Abd Alrahman and Mr. Abd Alrahman Mohamed Abd Alrahman, 27, a
second-year Arts Faculty student and Chairperson of the Darfur Student Association at the
University of Khartoum, on the University of Khartoum premises. Mr. Faisal Dawood Abd
Alrahman and Mr. Abd Alrahman Mohamed Abd Alrahman were taken to the NSA political
section offices at Khartoum North. While detained there, they were allegedly beaten and
punched all over their bodies for an hour. They were questioned about the activities of the Darfur
Student Organization. Abd Alrahman Mohamed Abd Alrahman was released on 24 September
2004 at 4 p.m. Faisal Dawood Abd Alrahman is still in detention and his whereabouts remain
undisclosed. The detention of Faisal Dawood Abd Alrahman at an undisclosed location and the
treatment he was allegedly subjected to upon his arrest give rise to fears about his being
subjected to further ill-treatment.
501. On 12 October 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and the Special Rapporteur on the
question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Adib Abdel Rahman Yusuf, of the Sudan
Social Development Organization (SUDO) in Zalingy, West Darfur State, who was arrested in
Khartoum by National Security and Intelligence Agency officers on 10 September 2004. He is
currently held incommunicado at the political section of the National Security and Intelligence
Agency offices in Khartoum. In view of his incommunicado detention lasting already for a
month, concern is expressed that Mr. Adib Abdel Rahman Yusuf may be at risk of torture or
other forms of maltreatment.
Communications received
502. By letter dated 7 July 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 5 April
2004 concerning Baroud Sandal Ragab, Ismail Oman, Mohamed ilaroun, Mohamed
ShariefAli and Abdalla Aldoma.
503. By letter dated 14 October 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 2
September 2004. The Government reported that Dr. Isam Siddig had never been detained by the
security forces, and that he had only been summoned for interrogation several times. According
to the Government, during his presence at the security office he was treated humanely and all his
legal rights under the constitution were observed.
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
504. By letter dated 23 March 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 24
April 2003 concerning the Sudanese Women's Civil Society Network for Peace (SWCSNP).
The Government reported that this organization had not registered itself with the Ministry of
Humanitarian Affairs and that this procedure was available to them in accordance with the law.
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SWCSNP started its activities without prior permission, and hence the office was shut down as
the law stipulated. The Government reported that, under the Commission of Humanitarian
Assistance Act of 1995, no association, organization or group may undertake any activity until it
has been registered with the authorities. In this connection, the Government stated that
international human rights law established a right for the public authorities to deny an individual
his freedom and security whenever such is necessary to protect national security, public safety or
the national economy or to prevent a crime or the disruption of public order. Such restrictions
must be in accordance with the law and can only be used in exceptional circumstances. The
Government reported that the SWCSNP had not exhausted all internal legal possibilities still
available for them, in conformity with the International Covenant on Civic and Political Rights.
Observations
505. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its replies. She acknowledges the
explanation received in the case of Dr. Isam Siddig indicating that he is not detained by the
security forces. She notes, however, that the Government's explanation had not fully dispelled
her concerns. Although he is not formally detained, according to her information, Mr. Isam
Siddig must report daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. to the Security Forces office. She believes that
such practice can be understood to amounting to a form of detention. In the case of Aba Zer
Ahmed Abu Al Bashir, she notes that information she has received from non-governmental
sources indicated that he had actually not been arrested, and that the link between such an
alleged arrest and his submission of a written request to the Governor of South Darfur, was not
clearly established. In light of this new information, she considers this case to be closed. She
refers to her main report (E/CN.4/2005/101) for a detailed analysis of the trends in the situation
of human rights defenders in Sudan, and for her observations to these trends.
Syrian Arab Republic
Communications sent
506. On 16 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-
up urgent appeal concerning Aktham Naisse, the President of the Committees for the Defense of
Democratic Liberties and Human Rights in Syria (CDF). According to reports received, in the
late afternoon of 11 February 2004, Aktham Naisse, was summoned to report to the “al-Mintaqa”
offices of the military secret service in Damascus. He was then allegedly detained and
interrogated by two high-ranking military officers until after midnight and reportedly released on
12 February in the early afternoon. It is reported that during his detention, military officers
verbally harassed Aktham Naisse, who was scheduled to travel abroad shortly, threatening him
not to allow him to leave Syria, or not be allowed to return. They reportedly suggested that other
accidents “might happen”. The military secret services allegedly accused Mr. Naisse and CDF of
having illegal contacts and being “the workers of Europe, the USA and Israel”, reportedly on the
basis of conversations tapped on Mr. Naisse's telephone by the Syrian authorities. Concern has
been expressed that this detention may be linked to Aktham Naisse's work in the defence of
human rights, in particular an online petition, “To end the state of emergency in Syria”
,reportedly launched by CDF at the end of January 2004. It is reported that the military secret
service officers said that the number of signatories, amounting to more than 3,500, was a sign
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that CDF had illegal international contacts. Concerns are heightened by reports of prior
surveillance and by the fact that CDF has not yet been recognized by the authorities.
507. On 23 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning the situation of ilaytham Al-Maleh, Director of the Human Rights
Association in Syria who had reportedly been prevented from travelling abroad. According to the
information received, on 11 February 2004, Mr. Haytham Al-Maleh was due to travel to United
Arab Emirates on a family visit when he was stopped by Syrian security authorities at the
International Airport of Damascus and not permitted to leave the country. It is believed that this
prohibition to travel follows a speech that Mr. Al-Maleh made in front of the Human Rights
Committee of the German Parliament on the International Day of Human Rights, concerning the
human rights conditions under the law of emergency in Syria. It seems that Mr. Haytham Al-
Maleh had not been allowed to leave Syria for several months until he received an official
invitation from the German Parliament, and that at that point, the Syrian Ministry of the Republic
Presidential Affairs asserted that Mr. Haytham was not banned from leaving the country.
Concern has been expressed that this restriction on the movement of Mr. Haytham Al-Maleh
may be linked to his work in defence of human rights.
508. On 9 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-up
urgent appeal concerning the situation of Aktham Naisse, Daniel Sauod and Nadal Danvish
and other members of the Committee for the Defence of Democratic Liberties and Human
Rights, who were allegedly arrested following a peaceful demonstration to demand more
political freedom and an end to the state of emergency. According to the information received,
on 8 March 2004 the Committees for the Defence of Democratic Liberties and Human Rights in
Syria organized a sit-in in front of the Syrian Parliament in Damascus to protest against the
emergency laws and to call for the release of political prisoners as well as for democratic
reforms. It is reported that, in the days preceding the demonstration, members of the Committee
for the Defence of Democratic Liberties and Human Rights were summoned by State security for
questioning and a number of members did not participate in the sit-in, reportedly due to
intimidation. According to the reports received, 20 minutes after the demonstration began the
security forces intervened - removing all the banners and arresting a number of demonstrators,
including Aktham Naisse, head of the Committee for the Defence of Democratic Liberties and
Human Rights, and two members of its council of trustees, Daniel Sauod and Nadal Darwish.
Concern has been expressed that members of the Committee for the Defence of Democratic
Liberties and Human Rights have been targeted for their human rights work and in particular for
having exercised their right to freedom of expression in demanding political reform.
509. On 31 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and
protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special Rapporteur on the
question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning ilassan Watfi, 39), a human rights
defender and an active member of the Syrian-based Arab Organization for Human Rights
(AOHR). According to the information received, Watfi was reportedly arrested by political
security officers on 16 March 2004 at his home in the area of Masiaf on the outskirts of Hama, in
central Syria. He is allegedly being held incommunicado at the Military Intelligence Centre in
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Damascus. Concern has been expressed that he may be at risk of torture and that his arrest may
be a way to hinder his work in the defence of human rights in particular his work with the
AOHR.
510. On 16 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-Rapporteur
of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and
protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special Rapporteur on the
question of torture, sent a follow-up urgent appeal concerning Aktham Naisse. On 13 April,
after having being summoned, Aktham Naisse was allegedly arrested when he presented himself
at the department of military security in the city of Latakia. It is alleged that he is held
incommunicado, although the authorities there deny that he is in custody. Aktham Naisse is the
head of the Committees for the Defence of Democratic Liberties and Human Rights (CDDLHR),
which has been conducting a nationwide campaign for political reform and respect for human
rights, and advocating for an end to the state of emergency in Syria. Aktham Naisse was
allegedly arrested shortly after CDDLHR issued its annual report for 2003, which detailed
serious human rights violations in the Syrian Arab Republic. Further reports indicate that he had
recently said that the CDDLHR was preparing a petition to be presented to the President, calling
for the lifting of the state of emergency and respect for human rights. Concerns is expressed that
Aktham Naisse may have been arrested in connection to his work as a human rights defender,
especially in light of the fact that, as a founding member of CDDLHR, he was allegedly detained
from 1991 to 1998 because of his human rights work. In 1992, he was reportedly sentenced to
nine years in prison after an unfair trial by the Supreme State Security Court. It is alleged that he
was tortured and ill-treated in custody. In view of his alleged detention incommunicado, concern
is expressed that he may be at risk of torture or other forms of ill-treatment. Moreover, serious
concern is expressed for the life and health of Aktham Naisse if he does not receive appropriate
and prompt medical treatment.
511. On 11 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent a follow-up urgent appeal concerning the situation of
Akhtham Naisse. According to new information received, on 22 April Aktham Naisse was
reportedly charged with “carrying out activities contrary to the socialist system of the state and
‘opposing the objectives of the revolution”. However, it is reported that no official statement
regarding the charges has been issued. On 26 April, Aktham Naisse appeared before the Supreme
State Security Court (SSSC) in Damascus where he was reportedly interrogated for two days
regarding his human rights activities. It is reported that he had been subjected to mistreatment in
prison and as a result has suffered a stroke which has left him partly paralysed and unable to
speak clearly. He has reportedly been denied medical care. A lawyer was reportedly present at
the hearing to assist with the questioning; however, on seeing the health condition of Aktham
Naisse, he reportedly refused to do so. The lawyer was then allegedly threatened that “he would
be in Mr. Naisses's place” if he did not cooperate. According to the information received, there
has been no report on the outcome of the SSSC hearing and Aktham Naisse continues to be
denied legal representation as well as visits from his family. Concern is expressed that Aktham
Naisse has been targeted for his human rights work, particularly in light of CDF's online petition
calling for democratic reform and the recent publication of its annual report on human rights in
Syria.
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512. 0116 August 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, sent a follow-up urgent appeal
concerning Aktham Naisse. According to the information received: Aktham Naisse was tried on
26 July 2004 at the Supreme State Security Council Court and the verdict is pending. He had
been charged with “opposing the objectives of the revolution” and “disseminating information
aimed at weakening the State”. A very limited number of international observers were allowed in
the courtroom, where he was tried on the grounds of the publication of the CDF annual report
denouncing human rights violations in Syria and a number of press statements made by CDF
members denouncing human rights violations against Kurdish citizens. Mr. Naisse, who needs
daily medical treatment and has been kept in solitary confinement since 13 April, has been
allegedly denied consultations with a lawyer in private and is not allowed to communicate with
his family. Of particular concern is that the Supreme State Security Court is outside the ordinary
criminal justice system, accountable only to the Minister of Interior, is not bound by the rules of
the Code of Criminal Procedures. Its verdicts are not subject to appeal. Reports suggest that
Aktham Naisse's prosecution has been motivated by his human rights activities, particularly the
publications and dissemination of information on respect for human rights in Syria, activities
which are legally provided for by numerous international human rights instruments. We are thus
concerned that his right to freedom of expression, to be a human rights defenders, rights in the
context of minimum conditions of detention and fair trial rights may be at risk.
513. On 27 October 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a letter of
allegation concerning the Syrian Organization for iluman Rights, which published a report
February 2004 on alleged use of torture in Syrian prisons and detention centres. The organization
called in the report for the establishment of a committee of lawyers and judges to carry out
regular inspections of prisons and detention centres. According to information received, on 11
December 2001, the Syrian Organization for Human Rights applied for registration. In a letter
dated 10 February 2002, the Ministry of Social Affairs rejected the application. Allegedly, in
June 2002, the organization filed a suit in the Administrative Court against the rejection of their
application, and the case is still pending in court. We are concerned that the reported refusal by
the Ministry of Social Affairs to register the Syrian Organization for Human Rights and the delay
in the court proceedings against this decision, which have been pending for more then two years,
may be motivated by a wish to obstruct their human rights defence activities.
Communications received
514. By letter dated 20 September 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on
11 June 2004. The Government confirmed the arrest of Aktham Naisse, and reported that he
was arrested on 13 April 2004. It stated that he was sent for trial before the Supreme State
Security Court (SSSC), in accordance with the relevant laws, for disseminating false and
exaggerated reports likely to harm Syria's relations with neighbouring States, for circulating a
petition calling for political reform, and for founding an unauthorized secret organization. The
SSSC held two sessions, the first on 26 July 2004 and the second on 16 August 2004, attended
by a number of Syrian and Arab lawyers and representatives for the European Union and the
United States Embassy. The Government informed that, at the second session, Mr. Naisa was
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released on bail pending his trial, which was postponed until 24 October 2004. According to the
reply, Mr. Naisse confessed to the charges against him and made an apology.
515. By letter dated 20 September 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 6
August 2004 concerning Aktham Naisse. The content of the letter is identical to the reply dated
20 September 2004 to the 11 June 2004 communication (see above).
516. By letter dated 12 January 2005, the Government replied to the letter of allegation sent on
27 October 2004 concerning the Syrian Organization for iluman Rights. Unfortunately, the
English translation was not available in time to be examined and included in this report, and will
thus be reported next year.
Observations
517. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its replies. She acknowledges the
explanation given in the case of Mr. Naisse. She observes that these explanations did not entirely
dispel her concern with regards to the arrest and legal action against Mr. Naisse. In particular, the
Special Representative notes that the use of criminal charges such as “disseminating false
reports” frequently implies the risk of suppressing legitimate free speech, and is particularly
wonying when such charges are raised against a person for having denounced alleged human
rights violations. She refers to her main report to the Commission of Human Rights
(E/CN.4/2005/101) for a detailed analysis of the trends in the situation of human rights defenders
in the Syrian Arab Republic, and for her observations to these trends.
Thailand
Communications sent
518. On 17 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special
Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers, the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial,
summary or arbitrary executions and the Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an
urgent appeal concerning the situation of Somchai Neelahphaijit, Chairman of the Muslim
Lawyers Association and a human rights defender who has reportedly been missing since 11
March 2004. According to the information received, Somchai Neelahphaijit left his home in
Bangkok on Thursday 11 March and has reportedly not been seen since. He was allegedly due to
attend a meeting at 9 p.m. on Friday 12 March at the Chalina Hotel in Bang Kapi district and was
also due to appear in court for a case in Narathiwat province on 15 March. He allegedly did not
attend either of these events and his family has reportedly not had any contact from him. On 16
March his wife reportedly filed a complaint with Bang Yikhan police. According to the
information received, prior to his alleged disappearance, Somchai Neelahphaijit had reportedly
received anonymous threatening phone calls, including one call from a a senior member of the
authorities informing him that he was on the top of the military blacklist. Fear has been
expressed for the safety of Somchai Neelahphaijit and in particular, concern has been expressed
that he may have been targeted for his human rights work, including his involvement in
petitioning 50,000 signatures nationwide to call for an end to martial law in southern Thailand as
well as his work to defend Muslim suspects against terrorist and treason charges.
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519. On 14 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning alleged death threats against members of the National Commission on Human
Rights, including Wasant Panich and Jaran Dittha-apichai. According to information
received, human rights commissioner Wasant Panich allegedly received a death threat by a letter
posted to him on 8 May 2004 in a brown envelope marked by a Garuda, the official logo of
Thailand. The content of the letter allegedly blamed him for creating religious divisions among
people and reportedly cited a speech he gave while visiting Yala and Pattani with six other
commissioners a week earlier. The letter also reportedly warned Wasant Panich to remain
“quiet”, otherwise his life, and possibly the lives of his family members, would be in danger.
These threats are reportedly in relation to comments made by Wasant Panich during his speech
regarding the violence that reportedly took place on 28 April 2004 in southern Thailand and
during which 108 suspected Islamic militants and five members of the security forces were
reportedly killed and which was the subject of a letter of allegations by the Special Rapporteur
on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions on S May 2004. It is reported that Mr.
Wasant's comments stressed that religious diversity was acceptable in a democratic society. He
also reportedly said, having documented many accounts from witnesses that police had killed
suspected militants who were incapable of fighting back, that “ [ t]here were many options open to
the soldiers allowing them to use more a lenient approach with the assailants”. Another human
rights commissioner, Jaran Dittha-apichai, also reportedly received death threats after he
allegedly told local media on 28 April 2004 that a fact-finding mission was needed in the South.
Mr. Jaran allegedly received more than 500 hate c-mails attacking him on the website of a local
newspaper after he made the remark. Jaran Dittha-apichai was also threatened in a telephone call
on 1 May 2004 that he would end up like the disappeared human rights lawyer Somchai
Neelahpaijit. It is believed that other human rights commissioners, including Chaiwat Satha-
anant, may also have received death threats.
520. On 27 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning the situation of members of the Yaung Chi Oo Workers Association
(YCOWA), a non-governmental organization that has been promoting the human rights and
labour rights of Burmese workers in Mae Sot over the past several years. According to
information received, members of the YCOWA have recently been the victim of a number of
acts of intimidation and violence. In particular, it is reported that at around 11 p.m. on 11 May
2004, two YCOWA members, Kyaw iltay and Zaw Win, were reportedly surrounded and
stopped near the Mae Sot Hospital by six men on motorcycles allegedly carrying knives and
sticks. The six men allegedly beat the two YCOWA members. Concerns have been expressed
that YCOWA members may have been targeted in retaliation for their actions in favour of
Burmese workers' rights and it is feared that they become the victim of further attacks. It is
further reported that in December 2003, two leaders of YCOWA, Moe Swe and Ko Phyo, had
reportedly gone into hiding after local business owners carrying their photos allegedly searched
for them in Mae Sot factories and streets.
521. On 25 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent a follow-up urgent appeal concerning the situation of
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Somchai Neelahphaijit, Chairman of the Muslim Lawyers Association and human rights
defender, who has reportedly been missing since 11 March 2004. The Special Representative
welcomes the establishment of an independent Committee and three subcommittees to
investigate his alleged disappearance. According to the information received however, despite
the arrest of five police suspected of involvement in the abduction as well as the fact that
Somchai Neelahpaijit has reportedly been missing for over 100 days, little progress has been
made by the Committee in locating his whereabouts. One member of the Committee has
reportedly stated that they have not been receiving adequate cooperation from the police
regarding the case. Given the lengthy period of time since the disappearance of Somchai
Neelahpaijit, serious concern is expressed for his safety and for the apparent lack of progress in
bringing to justice those persons responsible for his disappearance.
522. On 28 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a letter of
allegation concerning the alleged assassination of Charoen Wataksorn, human rights defender
and prominent environmentalist in Prachuab Khiri Kan Province, who was the former leader of a
successful campaign against the construction of a coal-fired power plant in the district of Bo Nok
in 2002. According to the information received, on 21 June 2004 Charoen Wataksorn travelled to
Bangkok to present a petition to the House Committee on Corruption investigation regarding the
alleged issuing of land title deeds for public land in Prachuab Khiri Kan Province. It is reported
that, on his return to Bo Nok that evening, he was shot seven times and killed by two gunmen
who had reportedly been waiting for him at the bus station. Concern is expressed that Charoen
Wataksorn had been targeted for his human rights activities and in particular his work on behalf
of the rights of the residents of Bo Nok.
523. On 7 July 2004 and 15 July 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special
Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression,
sent an urgent appeal concerning Supinya Klangnarong, Secretary-General of the non-
governmental organization Campaign for Popular Media Reform, a voluntary organization which
monitors and reports on the right to freedom of information and expression in Thailand, and
three editors of the Thai Post, namely Thaweesin Sathitrattanacheewin, Roj Ngammaen and
Kannikar Wiriyakul. According to the information received, on 15 July 2003 CPMR issued a
report entitled “The Comprehensive Telecommunications System under Shin Corp's Empire: the
undeniable conflict of interests”, which alleged that the economic growth of the country's largest
telecommunications and media company Shin Corp had been facilitated by its political
connections with the Royal Thai Government. The report also alleged that the growth of this
private telecommunications company limited public access to telecommunication services as
well as public participation in the media and communications system. An article based on a
report by CPMR and containing quotes by Supinya Klangnarong was published in a national
newspaper the following day. In November 2003, Shin Corp reportedly filed a libel case against
Supinya Klangnarong and the three editors. On 23 June 2004, the Criminal Court decided that
the case could proceed. It will reportedly begin on 6 September 2004. It is reported that they
could face up to two years' imprisonment if found guilty and a 200,000 baht fine. Concern is
expressed that Supinya Klangnarong has been targeted for her human rights activities and that
the charge of libel may have been brought against her in an attempt to hinder her work to
promote the right to freedom of expression and information in Thailand.
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Communications received
524. By letter dated 30 March 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 17
March 2004. The Government reported that it shares the concern expressed in the
communication sent over the disappearance and safety of Somchai Neelahphaijit. The Royal
Thai Police reported, utilizing all available means to search for Mr. Neelahpaijit's whereabouts.
The response indicated that Thaksin Shinawatra, the Prime Minister, had made it clear to all Thai
agencies concerned that all necessary measures must be taken to resolve this case as soon as
possible, and bring those responsible for the disappearance to justice without exception and
delay. The Government stated that, on 18 March 2004, Thaksin Shinawatra established an
independent Committee with three subcommittees to investigate his alleged disappearance, under
the Chairmanship of the Director-General of the Department of Special Investigation, Ministry
of Justice. The Government reported that further developments regarding Mr. Neelahpaijit would
be provided upon availability.
525. By letter dated 17 May 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 14
May 2004. The Government reported that Wasant Panich or Jaran Dittha-Apichai, or any
other human rights commissioners, including Chaiwat Satha-anant, can make a request for
protection of their lives to the authorities concerned, should they feel that such special protection
is needed. Appropriate action would then be promptly taken. It stated that the freedom of
expression and opinion is a fundamental right guaranteed by the Constitution. The Government
expressed its commitment to the promotion of the role of human rights defenders as laid down in
the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders.
526. By letter dated 20 July 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 7 July
2004. The Government stated that the decision to file a libel case against Supinya Klangnarong
was taken by Shin Corp itself and added that allegations of any connection between Shin Corp
and the Government was unfounded, since the Government has no control of any decision of the
company and is not represented in its board. The reply stated that the national legislation
guarantees that anyone who is offended shall be able to launch a lawsuit in the relevant court.
The Government stated that it considered the case as a civil case, not a human rights violation.
The Government reported that the final decision would be made by the relevant courts, on the
basis of evidence presented by both parties, with which the Royal Thai Government cannot
interfere. It further indicated that if Mrs. Klangnarong was not satisfied with the decision of the
court, she could appeal the decision or resort to existing national human rights protection
mechanisms. The Government stated that freedom of expression is guaranteed by national
legislation as laid down by international human rights law. In its reply, the Government finally
stated that it may serve the interests of all parties if the special procedures of the Commission on
Human Rights in each case would consider whether there is a human rights violation and
whether domestic remedies had been exhausted.
527. By letter dated 20 July 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 15 July
2004 concerning Supinya Klangnarong, Thaweesin Sathitrattanacheewin, Roj Ngammaen
and Kannikar Wiriyakul. The reply is in its substance identical to the reply provided to the
communication sent 7 July 2004 on Mrs. Klangnarong. The Government called upon the
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Secretariat to ensure that a careful screening of communications be made in the future so as to
avoid repetition of work.
528. By letter dated 6 August 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 25
June 2004 concerning Somchai Neelahphaijit. The Government previously replied in a letter
dated 30 March 2004 to the communication sent by the Special Representative concerning Mr.
Neelahpaijit on 17 March 2004. The Government reiterated that it attaches utmost importance to
the disappearance of Mr. Neelahphaijit. It reported that, on 12 July 2004, the Criminal Court
heard the case filed by the State Prosecutor over his disappearance, and that his wife has been
allowed to act as a co-plaintiff The lawsuit was filed against five police officers who where
charged with robbery and coercion through threats of death or bodily harm against Mr.
Neelahpaijit. According the reply, these charges may change if more evidences can be gathered
or the whereabouts of Mr. Neelahpaijit can be determined. The Government indicated that the
Court had set the first hearing of witnesses on 9 August 2004 and would continue consideration
under the continuous hearing system of more then 100 witnesses until 21 December 2005. It
stated that, despite the relentless efforts by the Government agencies concerned and the
independent Committee to locate the whereabouts of Mr. Neelahpaijit, his fate still remained
unknown.
Observations
529. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its numerous replies. She
welcomes the measures taken in the case of Somchai Neelahphaijit but remains gravely
concerned about progress to locate his whereabouts and to bring to justice those people
responsible for his disappearance. She reaffirms her serious concern at the reports of death
threats and assaults of defenders.
The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
Communications sent
530. On 4 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, sent an urgent appeal in
connection with information received regarding Zoran Bozinovski, a journalist known for his
efforts to write on corruption and human rights abuses, who allegedly received threats against his
life and the lives of his two young daughters on 4 and 5 December 2003. According to
information received, the threats are a response to reports by Mr. Bozinovski on corruption
among officials in the Government and the judiciary, and are reported to originate from a
Macedonian businessman allegedly linked to criminal gangs. Mr. Bozinovski reportedly filed a
confidential complaint with the police on 4 December, including audio recordings of explicit
death threats against himself and his daughters. Following his initial report to the police, the
same person allegedly threatened him again on 5 December for having reported the earlier
threats to the police. On 18 December the police allegedly informed Mr. Bozinovski that the
person who had threatened him had been cautioned but no criminal charges had been pressed
against him. Mr. Bozinovski is reportedly very concerned that he and his family remain at risk.
Reports indicate that Mr. Bozinovski was attacked on 24 September 2002 by three men armed
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with iron bars, who broke into the offices of the Tumba radio station in Kumanovo, after which
he was taken to the hospital with severe head and hand injuries. At the time of the attack, Mr.
Bozinovski was reportedly investigating corruption involving the head of the Macedonian
customs service. Reports indicate that the assailant sentenced for the 2002 attack was never
imprisoned, although the judgment was final.
531. On 4 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-up
urgent appeal concerning Zoran Bozinovski. According to new information received, Mr.
Bozinovski reportedly published an article in the newspapers Kumanovo Boulevard and Start
allegedly denouncing impunity for criminals. On 7 April, Mr. Bozinnovski reportedly received a
phone call from one of the person quoted in his article, who threatened to kill him. It is reported
that Mr. Bozinnovski immediately went to the police to report the incident and that upon his
arrival he was reportedly arrested on the basis of a detention warrant for having failed to appear
in a court hearing in a defamation suit against him on 6 April 2004 and reportedly in order to
ensure his presence at the next hearing on 19 April 2004.According to reports, Mr. Bozinovski
was detained at the investigative prison (“Shutka”) in Skopje, until 13 April when he was
released. Concern has been expressed that, under the newly amended article 172 of the Criminal
Code on defamation, Mr. Bozinovski, who faces a number of defamation suits for articles he has
published, in particular on corruption of officials, might face a prison term of up to three years if
found guilty.
Observations
532. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication. She expresses grave concern at
the absence of enforcement of the sentence passed against Bozinovski's assailant and the
resulting impunity. She calls on the Government to take all necessary measures so that sentences
against perpetrators of human rights abuses are indeed enforced. She recalls that the law of
defamation requires legislators to strike a delicate balance between the protection of freedom of
speech — particularly where this freedom is exercised in the defence of human rights — and the
interests of the persons who are the subject derogatory speech. The Special Representative
invites the Government to consider whether the possibility to resort to a measure as harsh as pre-
trial detention for persons accused of defamation, as in the case of Mr. Bozinnovski, correctly
strikes that balance.
Tunisia
Communications envoyées
533. Le 31 dCcembre 2003, la Représentante speciale a envoyé un appel urgent concernant
Neziha Rejiba, journaliste, plus connue sous son nom de plume de Om Zied et membre du
Conseil national pour les libertes en Tunisie (CNLT), une organisation qui travaille sur la
defense des droits humains, l'égalité entre les sexes et la promotion des valeurs démocratiques, et
au sujet de laquelle la Représentante spéciale du Secrétaire general pour la question des
défenseurs des droits de l'homme, le Rapporteur special sur la promotion et la protection du droit
ala liberté d'opinion et d'expression avaient envoyé un appel le 10 octobre 2003. Selon les
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informations reçues le 18 novembre, cue aurait etc accusee de <> pour avoir donne 170€ a unjeune
Tunisien alors qu'eiie rentrait d'un sejour a i'etranger. Ii sembierait que cette accusation pourrait
être abusive, dans la mesure oü, scion ia ioi tunisienne en matiêre de controie des changes,
Mme Rejiba aurait cu une semaine a son retour de voyage pour changer ses devises. Scion ics
informations reçues, ic 19 novembre, a i'issue du procés, cue aurait etc condamnee a huit mois
de prison avec sursis et 1 200 dinars d'amende. Le procés en appei devait se tenir ic 31 decembre
2003. Des craintes ont etc exprimees que cette condamnation ne soit hee au travaii de Neziha
Rejiba en faveur des droits humains, en particuiier ses reportages sur des questions touchant a
i'education et a ia corruption supposee du Gouvernement.
534. Le l2janvier 2004, ia Representante speciaie a envoyc un appei urgent concernant ia
situation de Sihem Ben Sedrine, membre du Conseii nationai des iibertes en Tunisie (CNLT),
dont cue a etc ia porte-paroic de 2001 a 2003, ainsi qu'ecrivain, journahste et defenseuse des
droits humains. Scion ics informations reçues, ic 5 janvier 2003 a 15 heures, Sihem Ben Sedrine
aurait etc agressee en picine rue aiors qu'eiie sortait de son domiciie, rue Abou-Dhabi a Tunis,
icquci est egaiement ic siege du CNILT, pour se rendre dans un << pubhnet>> (cybercafe). Eiie
aurait etc misc a terre par un inconnu qui i'aurait frappee a coups de poing a piusicurs reprises,
en presence de deux acoiytes. Sihem Ben Sedrine aurait fait constater ses biessures auprCs d'un
medecin ic iendemain et demande a son avocat de porter piainte. Des craintes ont etc exprimees
que cette agression ne soit hee a son travaii en faveur des droits de i'homme. Scion ics
informations reçues, i'immeubie du CNLT serait i'objet d'une surveiiiiance accrue depuis debut
janvier. Pius de cinq pohciers en civii surveillieraient tous ics jours i'entree de i'immeubie. Dc cc
fait, des craintes ont etc exprimees que cette attaque n'ait etc perpetree par ics services de
securite tunisiens.
535. Le S mars 2004, ia Representante speciaie, conjointement avec ic Rapporteur speciai sur
ia promotion et ia protection du droit a ia iiberte d'opinion et d'expression, a envoyc un appei
urgent concernant Abdellatif Makki et Jalel Ayyed qui se verraient refuser icur reintegration a
i'Universite de Tunis en raison des peines de prison qu'iis auraient effectuecs du fait, sembie t-ii,
de icurs activites passees au scm de i'Union generaic tunisienne des etudiants (UGTE). Scion ics
informations reçues, AbdeiiatifMakki, 41 ans, ancien Secretaire generai de i'UGTE et interne
aux hopitaux de Tunis, aurait etc arête en 1991 et condamne a une peine de 10 ans de prison par
ic tribunai mihtaire de Tunis en raison de ses activites syndicaics au scm de i'UGTE. Libere ic
10 juiiiiet 2001 aprCs avoir purge i'integrahte de sa peine, AbdeiiatifMakki aurait demande, ic 26
septembre 2001, sa reinscription en premi Cre annee d'internat. Scion ics informations reçues, sa
demande aurait etc rejetee par ic secretariat generai de ia facuite de medecine de Tunis.
AbdeiiatifMakki aurait aiors pris contact avec ics MinistCres de i'enseignement supericur et de
ia sante pubhque, ainsi qu'avec ic Haut-Comite des droits de i'homme, sembie-t-ii sans aucun
resuitat. Le 19 mars 2002, ia Direction des affaires juridiques et du contenticux du MinistCre de
i'enseignement supericur aurait notifie a Abdeiiatif Makki sa decision de refuser son inscription
au motif que son affaire toucherait a ia securite et a ia stabihte de i'institution universitaire
concernee. S'agissant de Jaici Ayyed, 39 ans, ceiui-ci aurait etc arrete en 1991 et condamne a
huit ans d'emprisonnement pour ses activites syndicaics au scm de i'UGTE. Au moment de son
arrestation, Jaici Ayyed venait de terminer cinq annees de formation theorique et une annee de
pratique en medecine. Depuis sa hberation, Jaici Ayyed se serait vu iui aussi refuser ic droit de
poursuivre ses etudes. AbdeiiatifMakki et Jaici Ayyed auraient conteste ics decisions prises a
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leur encontre auprés du tribunal administratif de Tunis. Cependant, en raison des delais parfois
longs de traitement de pareilles requêtes, tous deux pourraient voir leurs chances de reprendre
leurs etudes definitivement compromises. Le 7 fevrier 2004, ils auraient entame une gréve de la
faim qu'ils poursuivraient a cc jour.
536. Le 11 mars 2004, la Representante speciale a envoyc un appel urgent concernant les cas
suivants de membres de l'Union generale des etudiants de Tunisie (UGET).
537. D'aprês les informations reçues, le 28 juin 2003, Zied Kacem, etudiant ala faculte des
lettres de l'Universite de Sousse et membre du bureau federal de l'UGET de Sousse, aurait etc
renvoyc par decision du conseil de discipline pour << propos diffamatoires et appel a la gréve >>. Ii
semblerait qu'aprês avoir etc deboute dans ses demarches pour être reintegre dans les facultes
des lettres de Tunis, de Sfax et de la Mannouba, M. Kacem ait entame une gréve de la faim le 26
fevHer 2004. Le 28 fevrier 2004, les responsables locaux de l'UGET auraient adresse une
petition au Ministre de l'enseignement superieur lors de sa visite a la faculte de droit de Sousse
lui demandant la reintegration de Zied Kacem et revendiquant la liberte d'expression et le droit
syndical pour les etudiants. La police aurait reçu l'ordre d'intervenir pour disperser les etudiants
rassembles. Elle les aurait poursuivis dans les toilettes de la faculte et dans les amphitheatres.
Plusieurs etudiants, y compris des militants de l'UGET, auraient etc blesses, notamment Ayech
Amami, Hatem Mabrouki (qui aurait souffert d'une double fracture au bras gauche), Atef Ben
Salem et Chaker Sayari. Ala suite de ces evenements, les etudiants Kamel Amorossia, Atef Ben
Salem et Nizar Othmani se seraient vu interdire l'accês a l'Universite le 3 mars 2004. Ils auraient
etc chasses des locaux sur ordre du Secretaire general de l'Universite aprés avoir demande les
raisons de cette decision. Le même jour, Anis Ben Fraj, qui selon les informations reçues avait
etc reinscrit a l'Universite de Sousse a la suite d'une gréve de la faim entamee pour protester
contre sa revocation de la faculte des lettres de l'Universite de Sfax, qu'iljugeait illegale
(reference est faite a cet egard a un appel urgent envoyc par le Rapporteur special sur la
promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression et la Representante
speciale du Secretaire general sur la situation des defenseurs des droits de l'homme le S mars
2004), aurait etc empechee d'acceder a l'enceinte de l'universite par la police. Ii aurait etc
agresse et sa carte d'etudiant aurait etc confisquce selon les forces de l'ordre suite a une decision
du recteur de l'Universite du Centre annulant son inscription. Selon les informations reçues, les
policiers auraient refuse de lui donner une copie de cette decision. Anis Ben Fraj ferait depuis
l'objet d'une filature policiêre constante. Par ailleurs, d'autres militants de l'UGET, Wissam
Essaldi et Samir Enefzi, de la faculte de droit de Tunis, et Badr Essalem, de la faculte de
journalisme, risqueraient egalement d'être renvoycs de l'Universite pour leur engagement
syndical, a la suite de leur prochaine comparution devant des conseils de discipline.
538. Le 1 er avril 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur special sur
la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, a envoyc un appel
urgent concernant la persistance de la situation de AbdellatifMakki, 41 ans, et Jalel Ayyed, 39
ans. Selon les nouvelles informations reçues, aprés avoir vu leur demande de poursuivre leur
internat en medecine rejetee par la faculte de medecine, AbdellatifMakki et Jalel Ayyed auraient
etc autorises a s'inscrire en DEA de biochimie au scm de la faculte des sciences. Toutefois, il a
etc porte ala connaissance des Rapporteurs speciaux qu'ils se seraient vu refuser l'accês aux
laboratoires d'accueil qui se trouveraient dans la faculte de medecine, cc qui les empêcherait de
valider leur formation et d'obtenir leur diplome de troisiême cycle au scm de la faculte des
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sciences. Scion ics informations reçues, AbdeiiatifMakki et Jaici Ayyed poursuivraient une
gréve de ia faim depuis S4jours pour réciamer ic droit a poursuivre icurs etudes. Les rapports
indiquent que AbdeiiatifMakki aurait déjà perdu pius de 20 kiios et qu'ii aurait été transporté
d'urgence a i'hopitai Rabta a Tunis ic 27 mars 2004. MaigrC son Ctat de sante inquiCtant, ii aurait
refuse de suspendre sa gréve de ia faim. L'état de sante de Jaici Ayyed serait egaiement trés
inquiCtant.
539. Le 27 avrii 2004, ia Représentante speciaie, conjointement avec ic Rapporteur spCciai sur
ia promotion et ia protection du droit a ia iiberté d'opinion et d'expression, a envoyé une iettre
d'aiiegation concernant Me Patrick Baudouin, président d'honneur de ia Fédération
internationaic des iigues des droits de i'homme (FIDH). Scion ics informations reçues, ic 13 avrii
2004, Me Baudoin se serait vu interdire i'accés au territoire tunisien a i'aéroport Tunis-Carthage
par ia poiice poiitique, sans qu'aucun motif ne iui ait été signifié. Me Baudoin se rendait en
Tunisie pour participer a une conference de presse ic 14 avrii 2004, afin de presenter ic Rapport
annuci 2003 de i'Observatoire pour ia protection des défenseurs des droits de i'homme organiséc
en partenariat avec ia Ligue tunisienne des droits de i'homme. Ce rapport, intituié <> et préfacé par ic prix Nobei
de ia paix 2003, dresse un état des vioiations commises a i'encontre des défenseurs des droits de
i'homme dans pius de 80 pays, dont ia Tunisie. Des craintes ont été exprimécs que ic
refouiement de Me Baudoin par ics autorités tunisiennes ne vise a faire obstacie a ses activités en
faveur de ia defense des droits de i'homme ainsi qu'a ia pubiicisation du Rapport annuci de
i'Observatoire pour ia protection des défenseurs des droits de i'homme. Scion ics informations
reçues, cc serait ia troisiéme fois que Me Patrick Baudouin se verrait interdire i'accés au territoire
tunisien dans ic cadre de ses fonctions au scm de ia FIDH.
540. Le 7 mai 2004, ia Représentante spéciaie a envoyé un appei urgent concernant ia
situation de ia Ligue tunisienne des droits de i'homme (LTDH), dont ics activités de defense des
droits de i'homme seraient menacécs en raison du biocage par ics autorités tunisiennes des fonds
aiioués par i'Union européenne, une situation ayant fait i'objet d'un appei urgent date du S
novembre 2003. Scion ics informations reçues, ia LTDH se verrait toujours dans i'impossibiiité
d'accéder a ia seconde tranche des fonds attribués par i'Union européenne pour ses activités et
programmes en faveur de ia defense des droits de i'homme. Le Comité directeur de ia Ligue se
verrait a cc jour dans i'incapacité de régier ic ioyer annuci du siege centrai du au pius tard ic
31 mai 2004. Scion ics termes du contrat de iocation, a défaut de versement a cette échéance, ia
LTDH se verrait dans i'obhgation de quitter ses iocaux et de ics restituer a icur propriétaire. Le
gei des fonds menacerait égaiement i'existence de dix sections régionaics de ia LTDH a Sfax,
Jendouba, Sousse, Mahdia, Gafsa, Gabes, Kairouan, Monastir, Kébiii et Bizerte. Des craintes
ont été exprimécs que cc gei des fonds ne vise a priver ia LTDH des moyens financiers iui
permettant de mener ces activités en faveur des droits de i'homme.
541. Le 11 juin 2004, ia Représentante spéciaie, conjointement avec ic Rapporteur spéciai sur
ia promotion et ia protection du droit a ia iiberté d'opinion et d'expression et ic Rapporteur
spéciai sur ia torture, a envoyé une iettre d'aiiégation concernant, ic 8 juin 2004, trois membres
de i'Association de iutte contre ia torture en Tunisie (ALTT), Radhia Nasraoui (présidente), A u
Ben Salem (vice-président) et Ridha Barakati (trésorier), qui auraient été agressés verbaiement
et auraient reçu des coups de ia part de poiiciers appartenant a ia Brigade de süreté de i'Etat aiors
qu'iis essayaient d'entrer dans ics iocaux du siege du gouvernorat de Tunis pour y déposer,
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conformement a la loi tunisienne, les documents requis pour l'enregistrement de leur association.
Les membres de 1'ALTT qui se verraient constamment refuser l'accés aux locaux du gouvernorat
de Tunis auraient alors decide de faire un sit-in devant le siege du gouvernorat. Radhia Nasraoui
aurait alors etC emmenee par plusieurs policiers jusqu'â une rue isolee oii cue aurait etc
sequestree pendant environ une heure et demie. Au Ben Salem aurait, quant a lui, etc conduit
dans une rame de metro, et Ridha Barakati aurait etc place dans un taxi, dont le chauffeur aurait
reçu l'instruction de l'eloigner le plus possible du gouvernorat. L'ALTT, dont la creation aurait
etc annoncee le 26 juin 2003, Journee internationale des Nations Unies pour le soutien aux
victimes de la torture, a pour mandat de promouvoir les legislations locales de protection contre
la torture, recenser et faire le suivi des cas de torture, et fournir une assistance aux victimes sur le
plan medical ainsi que sur le plan judiciaire, en vue du depot de plaintes auprCs des instances
nationales et internationales. Des lejour de sa creation, les membres fondateurs de l'ALTT se
seraient rendus au siege du gouvernorat de Tunis afin de deposer les documents requis mais
auraient etc refoules. D'aprCs les informations reçues, Ali Ben Salem, age de 74 ans, et dont la
sante serait deja fragile, aurait etc trés affecte par les violences qu'il aurait subies et serait
actuellement dans un grand etat de faiblesse. Quant a Radhia Nasraoui, celle-ci aurait des bleus
sur ses bras et sur l'une de ses jambes; elle serait provisoirement dans l'impossibilite de
reprendre normalement ses activites d'avocate.
542. Le 13 juillet 2004, la Representante speciale a envoyc un appel urgent concernant la
situation de plusieurs organisations de defense des droits de l'homme en particulier l'Association
internationale pour le soutien des prisonniers politiques (AISSP), le Rassemblement pour une
alternative internationale de developpement (Raid-Attac Tunisie) et l'Association de lutte contre
la torture en Tunisie (ALTT). Selon les informations reçues, aprCs s'être vu interdire la tenue de
son assemblee generale enjanvier dernier, le 22 juin 2004, l'AISSP aurait etc notifice d'un refus
de reconnaissance legale de l'association par les autorites. Aucun motif n'aurait etc donne ace
refus contrairement a l'article S de la loi 154 de 1959 relative aux associations qui prevoit que la
decision de refus de constitution doit être motivee. D'autre part, le Raid-Attac Tunisie se serait
vu interdire la tenue de son deuxieme congrCs, prevu pour les 26 et 27 juin 2004, par le MinistCre
de l'interieur. Selon les informations reçues, cette interdiction surviendrait aprCs que les autorites
tunisiennes auraient tente d'empêcher la tenue du premier congrés du Raid-Attac en juillet 2001.
Le congrés avait finalement pu se tenir aprés l'arrivee d'invites etrangers, notamment de
parlementaires europeens. Le Raid-Attac n'aurait pas non plus obtenu de reconnaissance legale.
Enfin, selon les information reçues, les membres de l'Association de lutte contre la torture en
Tunisie (ALTT) auraient etc empeches enjuin 2003 de deposer les documents relatifs ala
creation de cette association et le Conseil national pour les libertes en Tunisie (CNLT) n'aurait
toujours pas obtenu son enregistrement legal malgre plusieurs demandes.
543. Le 21 juillet 2004, la Representante speciale a envoyc un appel urgent concernant
l'Association de lutte contre la torture en Tunisie (ALTT), et en particulier son Secretaire general
Chokri Latif. Selon les informations reçues le samedi 10 juillet 2004 et pour la seconde fois en
une semaine, M. Chokri Latif, aurait etc convoque par les services de la police tunisienne et
interroge sur sa responsabilite personnelle dans des publications considerees << illegales >> et sur
son << appartenance a une association non reconnue >>. A la fin de cet interrogatoire, une misc en
garde officielle lui aurait etc delivree, lui signifiant qu'il pourra être poursuivi pour ces faits
consideres comme delictueux par les autorites tunisiennes.
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544. Le 22 novembre 2004, la Representante speciale, conjointement avec le Rapporteur
special sur la promotion et la protection du droit a la liberte d'opinion et d'expression, a envoye
une lettre d'allegation concernant Radhia Nasraoui, avocate tunisienne, presidente de
l'Association de lutte contre la torture en Tunisie et ex-membre de la Commission internationale
d'enquête des Nations Unies sur la Côte d'Ivoire. Selon les informations reçues, le 17 novembre
2004, des dizaines d'agents de police auraient encercle le quartier del Manar oü Mme Nasraoui
habite et aurait de cc fait interdit l'accês des militants devant se rendre chez elle a l'occasion de
la gréve de la faim organisee par le Comite de soutien a Jalel Zoghlami, Nejib Zoghlami et
Loumamba Moshi. Elle aurait elle-méme etc bloquee a l'entree de la ville pendant une demi-
heure par les agents qui auraient tente d'ouvrir les portes de son vehicule pour obliger un de ses
amis a en descendre. Des craintes ont etc exprimees que ces actions ne visent a faire obstacle au
travail de defenseur des droits de l'homme que conduit Me Nasraoui. Ces craintes sont d'autant
plus vives que depuis son retour de Côte d'Ivoire, Radhia Nasraoui aurait etc victime de
multiples actions a son encontre. Son domicile et son cabinet seraient surveilles, de méme que
celui de sa mere. Son man aurait egalement etc suivi et des agents de la police politique auraient
pose des questions a ses medecins concernant son etat de sante. Par ailleurs, le 25 octobre 2004,
au lendemain des elections presidentielles, alors qu'elle accordait une interview a une radio
etrangere, un individu non identifie lui aurait arrache son portable. Le chef du poste de police du
boulevard Bab-Benet aurait refuse d'enregistrer la plainte.
Communications reçues
545. Par lettre en date du 30 janvier 2004, le Gouvernement a repondu aux appels urgents
envoyes le 31 decembre 2003 et le 10 octobre 2003 concernant Mme Neziha Rejiba. Le
Gouvernement a assure que l'affaire dont Mme Rejiba a fait l'objet aurait etc en pleine
conformite avec le droit commun. Suivant les recommandations de l'administration douaniCre, le
tribunal de premi Cre instance de Tunis a condamne Mme Rejiba a huit mois de prison avec sursis
eta une amende egale au seuil minimal. L'interessee a interjete appel et la cour d'appel doit
rendre son jugement le 25 fevrier 2005.
546. Par lettre en date du 30 decembre 2004, le Gouvernement a repondu a la communication
du 12 mars 2004 concernant des universitaires tunisiens. Le Gouvernement a indique que les
etudiants en question auraient fait l'objet de decisions disciplinaires emanant de leurs institutions
respectives suite aux infractions aux rCglements interieurs de ces institutions. Le Gouvernement
a affirme que ces decisions n'auraient aucun rapport avec les activites syndicales garanties par la
Constitution tunisienne. Concernant Zied Kacem, le Gouvernement a signale qu'il aurait
continue a enfreindre le rCglement interieur de la faculte de Sousse en organisant des assemblees
generales non autorisees et incitant les etudiants a entrer en grCve, en perturbant le cours normal
des etudes. En consequence, le conseil disciplinaire aurait decide de son renvoi. Le
Gouvernement a egalement souligne que des etudiants, dont Ayech Hammami, Hatem Mabrouki,
Atef Ben Salem et Chaker Sayari, s'etaient reunis le 28 fevrier 2004, lors de la visite du Ministre
de l'enseignement superieur, de la recherche scientifique et de la technologie. AprCs que l'accCs
a la salle de reunion leur aurait etc interdit, des etudiants auraientjete des pierres contre les
forces de l'ordre qui seraient intervenues pour disperser la foule. Concernant l'interdiction
d'accCs ala faculte a l'encontre des etudiants Kamel Amroussia, Atef Ben Salem et Nizar
Othmani, le Gouvernement a precise que la mesure faisait partie de dispositions preventives
prises par la faculte pour garantir l'ordre. Quant aux allegations concernant Anis Ben Fraj, le
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Gouvernement a signale que l'interesse se serait vu retirer sa carte d'etudiant suite aux
perturbations auxquelles ii aurait participe. Ii aurait etc renvoyc car ne s'interessant pas a
etudes. Les allegations d'agressions a son egard seraient sans fondement. Concernant Wissem
Said et Samir Nefzi, le Gouvernement a precise qu'ils auraient etc deferes devant le conseil de
discipline de la faculte de droit de Tunis en mars 2004 pour avoir detruit des urnes durant les
elections des conseils scientifiques en 2003 et avoir agresse le secretaire general de la faculte des
sciences economiques et de gestion de Tunis. Le dossier de Wissem Said aurait etc classe et
l'examen de celui de Samir Nefzi reporte. Concernant l'etudiant Badr Essalem Trabelsi, il aurait
etc question qu'il soit defere devant le conseil de discipline de l'Institution de presse et des
sciences de l'information de La Manouba, en mars 2004, pour avoir porte atteinte a la personne
du Ministre, mais l'administration serait revenue sur sa decision.
547. Par lettre en date du 6 janvier 2005, le Gouvernement a repondu aux appels urgents
envoycs le 5 mars et le 1 avril 2004 concernant la situation de MM. AbdellatifMakki et Jalel
Ayed. Le Gouvernement a indique que, le 29juin 2004, le Conseil scientifique de la faculte de
medecine de Tunis se serait prononce en faveur de la reintegration des interesses. La decision
serait assortie de deux mesures d'ordre pedagogique : la reprise de certains stages pendant une
periode de trois mois chacun, au cours desquels ils seront encadres et evalues, et la reussite aux
examens des epreuves du certificat de la session principale dejuin 2005 ou celle de rattrapage de
juillet 2005. En cc qui concenie l'interruption initiale des etudes, le Gouvernement a precise que
les interesses n'auraientjamais etc condamnes pour leurs activites syndicales, ou pour leurs
opinions politiques, mais pour des infractions de droit commun, a savoir avoir perpetre un
attentat dans le but de changer la forme du gouvernement. Par consequent, ils auraient etc
emprisonnes, respectivement, pour une periode de 10 et 8 ans ainsi qu'â une peine
complementaire de S ans de controle administratifi En premiere instance, la demande de
reinscription et de reintegration a la faculte de medecine a leur sortie de prison aurait etc rejetee,
le Conseil scientifique ayant estime que leur formation n'etait plus ajour du fait de leur
interruption prolongee d'etudes et que des risques serieux pouvaient en resulter pour les patients.
Neanmoins, suite aux deliberations, le Conseil aurait decide d'autoriser leur reintegration, a
condition que leurs connaissances medicales et professionnelles soient mises a niveau. En
conclusion, le Gouvernement a souligne que le MinistCre de l'enseignement superieur, de la
recherche scientifique et de la technologie ne disposait que d'un simple pouvoir de tutelle sur les
decisions prises par les institutions universitaires, y compris celles relatives aux inscriptions des
etudiants afin que ces decisions soient exclusivement guidees par des considerations d'ordre
scientifique ou pedagogique.
Réponses reçues sur des cas soulevés par Ia Représentante spéciale dans les années
précédentes
548. Par lettre en date du 9 mars 2004, le Gouvernement a repondu a l'appel urgent envoyc
par la Representante speciale le 23 juillet 2003 concernant M. Mohamed Noun l'informant que
l'interesse aurait toujours etc reconnu par les autorites comme une personne propageant de
fausses informations de nature a troubler l'ordre public. Par consequent, le Gouvernement a
affirme que ces accusations resteraient sans fondement. Par ailleurs, le Gouvernement a precise
que M. Noun fait partie de l'<< Association internationale de soutien aux prisonniers politiques>>
une organisation sans aucune existence legale en Tunisie, et donc tous ses membres et ses
fonctions pourraient être passibles de poursuites judiciaires.
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549. Par lettre en date du 9 mars 2004, le Gouvernement a repondu a la lettre d'allegation
envoyce par la Representante speciale le 17 septembre 2003 concernant Me Saida Akremi.
D'aprês le Gouvernement, M. Akremi aurait systematiquement propage de fausses informations
a l'egard des autorites. Par ailleurs, le Gouvernement a aussi souligne que M. Akremi fait partie
de l'<< Association internationale de soutien aux prisonniers politiques >>, une organisation sans
aucune existence legale en Tunisie, et donc tous ses membres et ses fonctions pourraient être
passibles de poursuites judiciaires. Contrairement ala plainte deposee, M. Akremi n'aurait
jamais fait l'objet des supposees agressions le 13 decembre 2003 et ii n'y auraitjamais eu de
preuves apportees de sa part. Le Gouvernement a indique qu'un collégue aurait depose une
plainte au nom de la victime deux semaines aprés et, suite a cette action, une commission
rogatoire aurait etc ordonnee et suivrait son cours. En cc qui concerne le vol perpetre dans le
cabinet en juin 2002, le Gouvernement a indique que les coupables auraient etc apprehendes.
550. Par lettre en date du 9 mars 2004, le Gouvernement a repondu a l'appel urgent envoyc
par la Representante speciale le 17 octobre 2003 concernant Abdallah Zouari, Mme Sihem Ben
Sedrine, AbderraoufAyadi, Omar Mestiri et Marc Thorner. En cc qui concerne M. Zouari,
un journaliste, le Gouvernement a rappele sa complicite dans une affaire ayant pour but la
subversion du gouvernement actuel et pour laquelle il avait etc condamne a ii ans de prison et
S ans de controle administratifi Le Gouvernement a precise que son retour en prison pour 9 mois
aurait etc le fait de son refus de se conformer aux conditions de la peine complementaire de
controle administratif aprés sa liberation initiale le 6 juin 2002. Par ailleurs, M. Zouari aurait
aussi etc condamne le 24juillet 2003 a 4 mois de prison ferme pour diffamation. Le
Gouvernement a affirme avoir agi selon sa legislation dans les deux affaires. En cc qui concerne
Sihem Ben Sedrine, Abderraouf Ayadi, Omar Mestiri et Marc Thorner, le Gouvernement a
affirme que les forces de l'ordre auraient agi de façon legitime le 6 fevrier face au refus des
interesses de se disperser.
551. Par lettre en date du 9 mars 2004, le Gouvernement a repondu a l'appel urgent envoyc le
19 novembre 2003 concernant Mme Radhia Nasraoui. Le Gouvernement a indique que les
allegations d'intimidation et de harcélement seraient sans fondement et qu'il n'y auraitjamais eu
de preuves apportees par les personnes supposement agressees. Le Gouvernement a egalement
affirme que l'action menee par les services de la douane a l'aeroport, a son retour de Turquie le 6
septembre 2003, se serait deroulee dans des conditions conformes aux mesures administratives
en vigueur. Le Gouvernement a aussi precise que suite a l'evenement l'interessee aurait etc
invitee a reprendre ses affaires. Quant a sa gréve de faim, le Gouvernement a souligne que cc
n'etait pas la premiere fois que Mme Nasraoui aurait tente d'attirer l'attention publique et celle
des medias par ces types de moyens. Finalement, en cc qui concerne la plainte qui a etc deposee
par Mme Nasraoui le 16 juillet 2003, suite a une supposee agression le 13 juillet 2003, le
Gouvernement a indique que l'affaire suivrait normalement son cours.
Observations
552. The Special Representative would like to thank the Government for its responses, and
regrets the absence of replies to her other communications. In the case of AbdellatifMakki and
Jalel Ayed, the Special Representative, welcomes the decision to authorize both student to
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pursue their medical studies. She considers that the Government's explanations in their regard
solve the concerns raised in the communication.
553. Tn the case of the Tunisian university students, the Special Representative acknowledges
the explanation provided by the Government and welcomes the discontinuation of the
disciplinary proceedings against Wissem Said and Badr Essalem Trabelsi. She observes,
however, that the information provided by the Government was not able to entirely dispel her
concern with regards to the environment prevailing to the conduct of student union activities. In
particular, she remains concerned about the expulsion of Zied Kacem from the Faculte de lettres
and Anis Ben Fraj and the decision to forbid access of Kamel Amroussia, Atef Ben Salem and
Nizar Othmani to the university premises.
554. She refers to her main report for a detailed analysis of the trends in the situation of human
rights defenders in Tunisia, and for her observations to these trends. She encourages the
Government to review favorably her request for an invitation to visit the country first sent on 21
August 2002 and reiterated most recently on 2 December 2004.
Turkey
Communications sent
555. On 19 December 2003, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on adequate housing, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to
freedom of opinion and expression, the Special Rapporteur on the independence of judges and
lawyers and the Representative of the Secretary-General on internally displaced persons, sent an
urgent appeal concerning the situation of Sezgin Tanrikulu, Chairman of the Diyarbakir Bar
Association, and Sabahattin Korkmaz, Burhan Deyar and ilabibe Deyar, all lawyers of the
Diyarbakir Bar Association. According to the information received, on 5 December 2003, the
Diyarbakir Penal Court held its second hearing in the case reportedly lodged against the four
above-mentioned lawyers by the Governorate. Sezgin Tanrikulu, Sabahattin Korkmaz, Burhan
Deyar and Habibe Deya were reportedly indicted on 3 June 2003, under article 240 of the
Turkish Penal Code and Article 59/1-2 of the Law on Legal Profession, for “misconduct in
duty” and “abusing their legal responsibility” in connection with compensation cases of 96
villagers from caglayan village of Kulp district (Diyarbakir), Ziyaret and Uluocak villages of
Lice district, which were reportedly evacuated and burned in the years 1993 and 1994. The Court
has reportedly adjourned the hearing to 24 December 2004 at 10 a.m. It is believed that the court
case was launched against the lawyers to intimidate and prevent them from denouncing the
forced evictions and house demolitions resulting in forced displacement, reportedly carried out
between 1989-1999 as a form of punishment against the Kurdish population living in the
Southern and South-Eastern part of Turkey.
556. On 21 January 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning the situation of Sefika Gflrbflz, President of GOC-DER a Turkish NGO
established in 1997 which conducts research and reports on forced displacement issues.
According to the information received, on 19 January 2004, the Istanbul State Security Court n°4
reportedly sentenced Sefika GUrbUz to pay a fine of TL 2.180 on the basis of article 312/2 of the
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Penal Code, which prohibits “incit [ ing] people to enmity and hatred because of class, racial,
religious, confessional, or regional differences”, reportedly in connection to a press conference
that GOC-DER held on April 2002 to present the publication of a report concerning forced
displacement of Kurdish people in Turkey. It is reported that on 3 August 2002, article 3 12/2 was
amended, allegedly in order to narrow its use by requiring “that incitement endanger public
order”. It is reported that this amendment aimed in part at avoiding the use of this provision
against human rights defenders. However, reports indicate that this requirement was on the
contrary reportedly used to increase Mr. GUrbUz' sentence. Concern has been expressed that this
court sentence may be contrary to the aims of the amendment adopted in 2002. Concern has
further been expressed that the court decision may represent a form of reprisal for the human
rights reporting activities of GOC-DER.
557. On 17 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-
up urgent appeal concerning the situation of Alp Ayan, Gflnseli Kaya and Adnan Akin, staff
members of the Human Rights Foundation of Turkey. According to the information received, on
30 September 1999, Alp Ayan, Gunseli Kaya and Adnan Akin were arrested in Izmir while on
their way to attend the funeral of a prisoner allegedly killed in Ankara Central Prison on 26
September 1999. On 3 October 1999, after a preliminary hearing before the Criminal Court of
Izmir, they were reportedly charged with coercion, violence, threat, assault or resistance to a
police decision forbidding a meeting and with helping the members of a terrorist organization
and disseminating propaganda on its behalf Their trial has reportedly been continuing for four
years, with repeated adjournments. According to new information, on 16 February 2004, Alp
Ayan was sentenced to 18 months and one day in prison, GUnseli Kaya to 18 months in prison
and Adnan Akin to three years in prison by the Aliaga first-instance Penal Court. It is reported
that the defendants intended to appeal their convictions. It is further reported that the other 37
defendants have been acquitted. Concern has been expressed that the reported sentencing to
imprisonment of Alp Ayan, GUnseli Kaya and Adnan Akin may be an attempt at preventing them
from carrying out their human rights activities.
558. On 3 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning the situation of llflseyin Cangir, Vedha Aydin and other members of the
iluman Rights Association (I11D). According to the information received, in December 2003
members of IHD distributed posters throughout Turkey with statements in both Turkish and
Kurdish to commemorate Human Rights Day on 10 December 2003. The posters were reportedly
confiscated on the order of the Public Prosecutors in Van, Hakkari, Adiyaman and Mardin.
Posters in Kurdish were reportedly also confiscated from IHD headquarters in Ankara.
According to the information received, HUseyin Cangir, head of the Mardin Branch of IHD, has
allegedly been charged under article 256 536 of the Penal Code for “hanging posters on
billboards belonging to the municipality without the permission of the governor” in connection
with the hanging of posters carrying statements saying, “Peace will win, all equal, all different”,
in Turkish and Kurdish. It is reported that Mardin Penal Court began to hear his case on 11
February 2004 and that the hearing was adjourned until 17 March 2004. Similar proceedings
against the heads of the Van Branch of IHD are pending before the Van Penal Court and a
hearing of the case against Vedha Aydin of the Sirrt Branch of IHD is scheduled for 24 March
2004. Concern has been expressed that these judicial proceedings may constitute means of
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harassment against human rights defenders. Concern has also been expressed that these
proceedings may represent a form of resistance from the judiciary to the implementation of the
fourth harmonization package (Law 4778), which was adopted on 2 January 2003 and reportedly
amended article 4 of Law No. 2908 on associations, reportedly removing limitations upon the
promotion or use of non-Turkish languages and cultures as well as article 6 of the same law
allowing the use of “illegal languages” in the various activities of an association, including
publications, conferences and posters.
559. On 17 March 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture and the Special Rapporteur on violence against women,
sent an urgent appeal concerning three Iranian nationals, Farideh Asadi (f), Nazila Mohamad
ilasani Zamani (f) and Soheila Pordel (f), who have allegedly been seeking asylum in Ankara.
They were due to be deported to Iran with their children in four days. All three women were said
to be women's rights activists, and members of the International Federation of Iranian Refugees
(IFIR)-Turkey, who, while in Turkey, have participated in public conferences and meetings in
the defence of women's human rights in Iran, during which they have expressed criticisms of the
Iranian regime, and called in radio interviews for strikes against the Government of the Islamic
Republic of Iran. Concerns and fears have therefore been expressed that their right to life and
security of the person could be at risk if they are returned.
560. On 25 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, sent an urgent appeal concerning
Berfin Peyam, aged 12, and members of her family who have reportedly been receiving threats
since she lodged a complaint that she had been severely beaten by police officers in Diyarbakir,
southeastern Turkey. Concerns have been expressed for their safety. According to the
information received, Berfin Peyam was reportedly abducted from the street in Diyarbakir on 19
February 2004 by people carrying walkie-talkies, who blindfolded her and took her away in a
car. They asked her where her sister was, and when she did not reply they reportedly punched
her repeatedly in her mouth and knees, so that her mouth began to bleed heavily. She was then
reportedly taken to a place which is believed to be the Anti-Terror Branch of Police
Headquarters in Diyarbakir where she was given treatment for her mouth but then beaten again
and threatened. She was released later that day. It has been brought to our attention that when
Berfin Peyam applied to the local branch of the Human Rights Association (Jnsan Haklari
Dernegi, IHD) she was unable to speak and had to write her complaint. Medical reports confirm
these injuries. After IHD lodged a complaint on her behalf about the incident with the State
Prosecutor, Berfin Peyam and her family, who were staying outside Diyarbakir city, reportedly
received five or six phone calls from people who falsely identified themselves as IHD members,
asking them to come to Diyarbakir. On 19 May, Berfin Peyam and her mother visited the office
of IHD to seek advice. IHD reportedly sent a fax notifying a major human rights NGO about its
concerns for the safety of Berfin Peyam and her family. Shortly after, Berfin Peyam reportedly
received an anonymous call, asking her why she contacted this NGO and telling her that it would
be very bad for her now.
561. On 6 August 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special
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Rapporteur on the independence of judges and lawyers and the Special Rapporteur on the
question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Abduihekim Gider, a lawyer, Abdullah
Gflndogdu, Tahsin Atak, and Ihsan Gfllmek. According to the allegations received, on 30 July
2004, police detained Abdullah GUndogdu, Tahsin Atak and Ihsan Gulmek in the Pervari district
of Siirt Province, on suspicion of aiding and abetting an armed organization, the Kurdistan
People's Congress (Kongra-Gel), formerly known as the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). Their
lawyer, Abdulhekim Gider, came to meet with them at the police station in Pervari on 1 August.
While he was waiting, a police officer asked him, “How can you defend traitors? This lot are
terrorists ... haven't you got a conscience?” When Abdulhekim Gider saw him, Abdullah
GUndogdu appeared exhausted and scared and could not stand upright. He said that he had not
been given any food since the day he was detained, and that he had been stripped naked and
sprayed with cold pressurized water for two-and-a-half hours, especially at his kidney area. He
said that he had also had his testicles squeezed and been beaten about the head. Tahsin Atak and
Ihsan Gulmek only said that they had not been given food, but they both appeared tired and
frightened. Tahsin Atak later complained that he had been severely beaten on his body and legs.
When his lawyer met with him in prison, there was still blood on his legs and socks from this.
That day, Abdulhekim Gider tried to lodge a complaint that Abdullah GUndogdu had been
tortured, but the Pervari prosecutor was reluctant and allegedly tried to persuade him not to do
so. When he returned to the prosecutor's office on 2 August, a police officer reportedly pointed
his rifle at the lawyer and said to another officer, “I might accidentally pull the trigger”. When
Abdulhekim Gider went back to the police station to meet with his clients the same day, he says
he was prevented from entering by seven or eight police officers, including the local police chief,
who surrounded him and apparently insulted and threatened him, because he had lodged a
complaint of torture against them. After he appealed to a senior police officer who came to the
station, Abdulhekim Gider was allowed to meet with his clients. As the lawyer left the police
station, one of the police officers who had earlier threatened him told him, “Yourjob is not going
to be easy any more”. When Abdulhekim Gider asked what this meant, the police officer told
him, “Go away! I don't want to see you again. Bad things happen, and they are going to happen”.
Police have pressured the detained men's relatives to change their lawyer, and police officers in
Pervari are reported to have threatened Abdulhekim Gider since then. Groups of police have
followed him in the street, and police vehicles have patrolled conspicuously outside buildings
where he has been conducting meetings with the families of his clients. Abdullah GUndogdu,
Tahsin Atak and Jhsan GUlmek were all remanded to Siirt prison at 11 p.m. on 3 August.
562. On 6 October 2004, the Special Representative sent a letter of allegation concerning Mr.
Ferhat Kaya, Chair of the pro-Kurdish Democratic People's Party (DEHAP) in the Central
District of the city of Ardahan in northeastern Turkey, and a Kurdish human rights activist. He is
trying to obtain rights for people affected by the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan (BTC) pipeline in
particular, by ensuring that locals living in Kurdish Turkey obtain the compensation to which
they are entitled and that their rights are respected by the European Court of Human Rights.
According to the information received, on 5 May 2004, Ferhat Kaya was detained after his
attendance at meetings with those affected by the pipeline and with trade unionists in Ardahan.
He was reportedly humiliated and beaten during his detention. It is alleged that an officer pointed
a gun at his head, verbally abusing him and his family, and that he was also pushed to the ground
and kicked repeatedly. Witnesses stated that he had blood on his clothes and deep cuts on his
arms and elsewhere. According to medical reports, these are consistent with torture. He was
allegedly called a “terrorist” by the court prosecutor, although he was not attending the court
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hearing. His detention finished on 21 May 2004 after the payment of Turkish Liras 2,000 bail.
Concern has been expressed that Mr.Kaya's detention was caused in order to prevent him from
defending local people affected by the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline.
Communications received
563. By letter dated 20 January 2004, the Government replied to the urgent action sent by the
Special Representative on 19 December 2003 concerning the situation of Sezgin Tanrikulu,
Sabahattin Korkmaz, Burhan Deyar and ilabibe Deyar. The Government informed the
Special Representative that the aforementioned persons had been acquitted on 24 December
2003 and also stated that the Government of Turkey attached great importance to the successful
return of displaced citizens and in this respect had launched the “Back to Village and
Rehabilitation Project” to enable the return and resettlement of displaced persons as well as the
establishment of social and economic infrastructure and sustainable living standards for them.
The Government stated that it would continue to take all feasible measures for the success of the
voluntary return processes and stood ready to cooperate with the relevant international
organizations.
564. By letter dated 12 March 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 17
February 2004, and to the urgent appeal sent on 22 October 2003, both concerning Alp Ayan
and Gflnseli Kaya. The Government reported that, on 13 February 2004, the Aliaga first-
instance Penal Court convicted Alp Ayan and GUnseli Kaya and sentenced them to minimum
penalties set forth in article 32/1 of Law no. 2911 on meetings and demonstration marches. Alp
Ayan was sentenced to 18 months and one day of imprisonment and a monetary fine of
60,750,000 Turkish Liras (approximately US$ 50), while GUnseli Kaya was sentenced to 18
months imprisonment and a pecuniary fine of 60 million Turkish Liras (approximately 50 USD).
The verdict was not final at the time and could be appealed before the Court of Cassation. The
Government stated that Alp Ayan was acquitted from 13 cases out of a total of 16.
565. By letter dated 29 March 2004, the Government responded to the urgent appeal sent on
17 March 2003. The Government reported that, according to preliminary information received
from the relevant Turkish authorities, the requests for asylum for Farideh Asadi, Nazila
Mohamad, ilasani Zamani and Soheila Pordel had been refused by the United Nations High
Commissioner for Refugees office in Ankara. It stated that additional information would be
provided once received.
566. By letter dated 20 April 2004, the Government provided an additional reply to the urgent
appeal sent on 17 March 2003. According to the Government, the communication sent by the
Special Representative stated that there were four people concerned, whereas the number of
people is three, since Nazila Mohamad Hasani Zamani appeared to be the name of one person.
According to the Government, Farideh Asadi, Nazila Mohamad ilasani Zamani and Soheila
Pordel had objected to the decision by the UNHCR Office in Ankara to refuse their requests for
asylum, as referred to in the reply dated 29 March 2004. The Government stated that these
persons asked the UNHCR Office in Ankara for a reassessment of their initial application, and
that the Office accepted to reassess the application of Soheila Pordel, while refusing the requests
of the two others. The Government further informed that these persons have applied for
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obtaining permission to stay in Turkey with an “ordinary alien” status. This application was at
the time being considered by the Ministry of Interior.
567. By letter dated 11 May 2004, the Government provided a further reply to the urgent
appeal sent on 17 February 2004. The Government reported that, on 13 February 2004, the
Aliaga Penal Court of First Instance convicted Adnan Akin to three years' imprisonment, in line
with article 32/3 of the Penal Code. The conviction was based on his violent acts against a
gendarmerie officer, during a demonstration held on 30 September 1999, at which Alp Ayan and
Gunseli Kaya also participated. According to the Government, the court increased his
imprisonment by one additional day in line with article 8 1/1-3 of the Turkish Penal Code, which
regulates penalties for repeat offences.
568. By letter dated 12 May 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 21
January 2004. The Government confirmed that, on 19 January 2004, the Istanbul State Security
Court No. 4 sentenced Sefika Gflrbflz, in line with article 3 12/2 of the Penal Code. She was
found guilty of the alleged crime of “inciting hatred and enmity among people because of racial
and regional differences in a way that is likely to endanger the public order”. The conviction
related to her reading of a report titled “Report on the Involuntary Immigration Report, 1996-
200 1” and its annexes, during a press conference held in Istanbul on 17 April 2002. The
Government stated that she was sentenced to one year's imprisonment. This penalty should be
converted to a fine of 2,180,700,000 Turkish Liras (approximately US$ 2,112), based on her
good conduct exercised during the proceedings and in conformity with article 59/2 of the Penal
Code. Also, the execution of the punishment would not be suspended. According to the
Government, both Sefika GUrbUz and the Public Prosecutor appealed the decision.
569. By letter dated 25 May 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 3
March 2004. The Government reported that, on 10 December 2003, the Van Penal Court decided
that the hanging of posters, prepared and printed by the iluman Rights Association (IHD), to
public places was illegal. The decision was based on articles 310 and 311 of the Penal Code.
Hence the Public Prosecutor's Office at the Van Security State Court ordered the collection of
these posters, in line with Article “Add. 1” of the Press Law No. 5860. According to the
response, on 9 December 2003, the Public Prosecutor's Office in Derik, a town of Mardin, filed a
lawsuit against llflseyin Cangir with the Derik Penal Court, in line with the article 536/1 of the
Penal Code. This related to hanging posters in two different places without the permission of the
Kaymakan, the official in charge of governing a provincial district. The case was pending at the
time. The Government stated that, on 23 December 2004, the Van Penal Court found that the
statements on the posters did not constitute a crime, and adopted a decision of non-prosecution of
the head of the Van Branch of IHD.
570. By letter dated 2 July 2004, the Government provided an additional reply to the
communication sent 3 March 2004. The Government reported that, on 21 April 2004, the Derik
Penal Court, First Instance, convicted llflseyin Cangir of the charges referred to in the
Government reply dated 25 May 2004 and in line with articles 536/2, 536/3, 536/5, 59 and 72 of
the Penal Code. The court sentenced him to a fine of 361,008,000 Turkish Liras (approximately
US$ 241), and later suspended the execution of the penalty.
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571. By letter dated 14 July 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 25 May
2004. The Government reported that Berfin Peyam's mother has lodged a complaint to the
Public Prosecutor's Office in Diyarbakir concerning the alleged ill-treatment of Berfin Peyam.
Upon the complaint, the Public Prosecutor's Office initiated an investigation, and several
testimonies were heard. The Government argued that these testimonies establish that Berfin
Peyam was with the family of a schoolmate the day under question. It also stated that a medical
report submitted by her mother indicated that Berfin Peyam at the time appeared calm, yet
concerned, with certain difficulty of expressing herself verbally, which would gradually
diminish. According to the Government, Berfin Peyam was later re-examined, and the report of
the Forensic Medicine Institute does not indicate any traces of ill-treatment or physical violence
directed towards her. The Public Prosecutor's Office decided that the allegations of the
complainant was unfounded, and reached a decision of non-prosecution. Moreover, the
Government stated that the Prosecutor's Office decided that legal proceeding should be initiated
against Berfin Peyam on grounds of “simulation of infringement”, as the complainant
incriminated public officials upon the statements of Berfin Peyam. In line with article 164 and
successive provision of the Penal Code, the decision could be appealed at the Siverek Heavy
Penal Court in 15 days after the communication of this decision. According to the reply, the
decision was communicated on 7 June 2004.
572. On 14 October 2004, the Government sent a response to the urgent appeals sent on 6
August 2004 concerning Abduihekim Gider, Abdullah Gflndogdu, Tahsin Atak, and Ihsan
Gfllmek. The Government states that Mr. GUndogdu, Mr. Atak, and Mr. Gulmek were suspected
of committing the crimes of aiding and abetting the PKK/KONGRA-GEL terrorist organization,
recruiting new members for the said organization and arranging their travel to join its rural cadre,
and were detained in this respect on 30 July 2004 at around 12 o'clock in Pervari, Siirt. During
the search carried out at Mr. GUndogdu's house, the police found money in local and foreign
currencies and clothing, which were understood to be transferred to the terrorist organization,
along with other logistical supplies and an unlicensed hunting rifle. On the same day, under the
authorization and instruction of the Public Prosecutor, they were put into the detention centre at
the Pervari Police Station. They were informed or their legal rights and relevant documents were
prepared accordingly. They underwent medical examinations that very day. On 3 August 2004,
the suspects were taken to the Office of the Prosecutor, and on their way they underwent another
medical examination at the Pevari State Hospital. Following their interrogation with the Public
Prosecutor they were referred to the Criminal Court of Peace in Pervari where the court decided
to arrest them on the grounds of aiding and abetting the terrorist organization. They were then
committed to the prison in Siirt. Legal proceedings against the three suspects are under way. The
Government further stated that Abdulhekim Gider, the lawyer of the detainees, filed a complaint
with the Public Prosecutor's Office on 1 August 2004 on the grounds that his clients were
subjected to ill-treatment. Since the medical examinations carried out before and after the
detention periods concerned showed that there were no signs of ill-treatment, the investigation
initiated in this regard was concluded with a decision of non-prosecution. Mr. GUndogdu
appealed against this decision and the appeal is being considered by the Batman Heavy Penal
Court. On 1 and 2 August 2004, Mr. Gider visited his clients, but he did nto appear during the
interrogation of the suspects despite having been informed of the time and venue of the
interrogation. Moreover, before his second visit, while entering the police station and canying to
black plastic bags, upon refusing to present his ID, an argument broke out between him and the
security officers during which he threatened the officers.
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Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
573. By letter dated 25 February 2004, the Government provided an additional reply to the
urgent appeal sent jointly with the Chairperson-Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary
Detention on 21 July 2003 concerning Sevim Yetkiner and Baki çelebi. The Government
referred to its previous reply to this communication, by letter dated 21 August 2003, where it
stated that a lawsuit had been filed against these persons at the Erzurum State Security Court on
14 July 2003. This court adopted a decision of non-competence and referred the case to the
Dogubeyazit Penal Court of First Instance. A lawsuit was filed against Sevim Yetkiner and Baki
çelebi, along with 11 other accused persons, on ground of aiding and abetting the PKK-KADEK
terrorist organization and pursuant to article 3 12/1 of the Penal Code. The Government reported
that the next hearing of the case was to be held on 19 February 2004. It fhrther stated that, while
in custody, Sevim Yetkiner and Baki çelebi were reminded of their right to demand legal
counsel, but declined to demand a defence lawyer. According to the reply, they did not report
any kind of ill-treatment during their custody, and this was also confirmed by a medical report.
They were released on 6 August 2003.
574. By letter dated 12 March 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 17
February 2004, and to the urgent appeal sent on 22 October 2003, both concerning Alp Ayan
and Gflnseli Kaya. This reply is summarized above.
575. By letter dated 12 March 2004, the Government responded to the urgent appeal sent
jointly with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of
opinion and expression on 29 October 2003 on the iluman Rights Foundation of Turkey
(HRFT). The Government referred to its previous response dated 30 December 2003. It reported
that the third and final hearing in case of Directorate General of Foundations (DGF) versus the
HRFT was held on 9 Mach 2004. The legal representatives of DGF chose not to appear before
the court, which implies that DFG will not follow through the case. The Government stated that
the case in question therefore have been taken off the agenda of the concerned court.
576. By letter dated 20 May 2004, the Government responded to the letter of allegation sent
jointly with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of
opinion and expression on 10 November 2003. The Government confirmed the charges of Eren
Eskin and Erdal Tas, relating to an article published in the 1k /b /n c / c Yeni Gundem newspaper.
According to the Government, the Court acquitted these two persons on 16 April 2002. The
verdict of the Court was not appealed and is therefore final.
577. By letter dated 16 July 2004, the Government replied to the letter of allegation sent by the
Special Representative on 14 October 2002 concerning Alp Ayan and Ecevit Piroglu. The
Government commented upon a statement in the communication, where the Special
Representative referred to allegations that the persons concerned faced a sentence up to six years
imprisonment for “having insulted the Turkish armed forces” and the Ministry of Justice, after
they took part in a protest meeting on 10 February 2002. Upon inquiries conducted by the
competent authorities, this allegation could not be verified. The Government asked for additional
information on either the name of the city in which the alleged meeting took place, or on the
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name of the relevant Public Prosecutor's Office which initiated the investigation, in order to
clarify the matter and give accurate information on the case.
Observations
578. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its numerous replies. At the
invitation of the Government of Turkey, she conducted an official visit to the country in October
2004. She refers to the separate report, submitted to the Commission (E/CN.4/2005/101/Add.3),
for a detailed overview of the situation of human rights defenders in Turkey.
Turkmenistan
Communications sent
579. On 29 April 2004, the Special Representative sent a letter of allegation concerning the
new Law on Public Associations and the corresponding criminial code amendements.
According to the information received, on 21 October 2003, the Government of Turkmenistan
adopted a new law on association which regulates the establishment and operation of
associations and NGOs within the country, which reportedly came into effect on 20 November
2003. According to the information received, under article 17 of the new law all public
associations are now required to register with the Ministry of Justice (Adalat) or face criminal
charges, including imprisonment up to one year and “corrective labour” for activities if
unregistered. It has been further reported that the registration procedures set by the new law
remain unclear and render the registration of organizations unduly difficult. Concern has been
expressed with respect to the reportedly wide-ranging power granted by article 18 to the Ministry
of Justice with regards to grounds on which registration can be denied. Additional concern has
been expressed with regards to the requirement stipulated by article 17 that organizations re-
register for any change in their charter and any factual changes in their registration details.
Further concern has been expressed concerning article 33, which reportedly requires all existing
associations to now re-register with the Ministry. It is fhrther alleged that the new law places
undue restrictions on the work of foreign and international NGOs based in Turkmenistan, which
are required to have a minimum of 500 members, as opposed to 50 members for national
associations and just five for local ones. As well, an NGO has to have a branch abroad in order to
be eligible for registration under the category of “international association”. Concerns have also
been expressed with regards to restrictions imposed on authorized activities for public
associations by article 21, which establishes a list of permitted activities. Additionally, according
to the information received, article 22 establishes undue scrutiny by the Ministry of Justice into
the activities of registered association by requiring that associations submit annual reports and
copies of management decisions on their activities to this Ministry, and to provide it with prior
notification of any events the association organizes and to allow for government officials to
attend. Finally, concern has been expressed that articles 21 and 22, respectively, place undue
restriction on cooperation with international NGOs and access to foreign funding. Particular
concern has been expressed that, taken as a whole, the November 2003 Law on Public
Associations imposes conditions on associations conducting human rights activities which may
be in violation of the Declaration on the Right and Responsibilities of Individuals, Groups and
Organs of Society to Promote and Protect Universally Recognized Human Rights and
Fundamental Freedoms.
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Communications received
580. By letter dated 17 May 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by the
Special Representative on 29 April 2004 regarding the Law on Public Associations, which
came into force on 21 October 2003. In its response, the Government reiterated its commitment
to provide the highest level of access to human rights for its citizens. The Government stated that
the new law gives every citizen the choice to create or enter into public associations, while at the
same time determining the administrative and legal conditions for the creation, management,
reorganization and closure of public associations. The act also provides for the registration of all
public associations and the re-registry after any amendemnts to their charter, this procedure
applies to national and international groups equally. The Government also maintained that only
public order and general well-being can guarantee the recognition and respect of all rights for all
people. According to the Government, the provisions of the new law are by no means
discriminatory towards international organizations. The Government confirmed its commitment
to the United Nations and assured that its amendments were introduced in conformity with the
Declaration on the Right and Responsibility of Individuals, Groups and Organs of Society to
Promote and Protect Universally Recognized Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.
Observations
581. The Special Representative would like to thank the Government for its prompt response
in connection with a communication sent by her regarding the new Law on Public Associations.
The Special Representative takes note of the Government's explanation of provision included in
its new Law on Public Associations. The Special Representative regrets to note, however, that
the Government's replies in relation to these cases do not dispel the grave concerns she raised in
her communication with regards to the restrictive environment created by such legislation and its
potential incompatibility with the Declaration on Human Rights Defenders. The Special
Representative therefore urgently invites the Government to review the Law on Public
Associations in the light of the concerns expressed in her communication. She reiterates her offer
to the Government to provide any support it may find useful in crafting legislation that strikes the
right balance between, on one side, the need for the State to provide a framework regulating the
formation and operation of NGOs, and freedom of association on the other side. She also restates
her belief that, in order to engage in a meaningfhl dialogue in this matter, an official visit to
Turkmenistan may be very helpful.
United States of America
Communications sent
582. On 4 March 2004, the Special Representative, in conjunction with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, transmitted an
urgent action regarding the reported refusal to allow observers from three human rights groups
permission to attend and observe military commission trials of detainees at Guantanamo Bay,
Cuba, and the alleged restriction on freedom of expression imposed on lawyers. According to the
information received, Amnesty International, iluman Rights First and iluman Rights
Watch, international non-governmental human rights organizations, reportedly wrote to the
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United States Department of Defense in May 2003, requesting permission to observe the military
commission trial proceedings, in follow-up to the United States administration's commitment
that the commission would be open to the public. It is reported that in January and February
2004, respectively, Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch received a written response
from the Department of Defense reportedly denying them access to the military commissions on
the basis of “limited courtroom seating and other logistical issues”. The letter also reportedly
stated that seating would only be provided to select members of the press and to the International
Committee of the Red Cross. Human Rights First has reportedly not yet received a response to
its request. According to the information received, on 20 February 2004, the three organizations
sent ajoint letter to the Secretary of Defense, Donald Rumsfeld, protesting their exclusion from
the proceedings. It is further reported that, under the military commission rules, civilian and
military lawyers can reportedly only speak to the press once they have received permission from
the military officials in charge of the proceedings and that the granting of permission may be
limited to certain topics. Concern has been expressed that the reported denial of access for these
independent human rights organizations to trial proceedings in Guantanamo Bay may represent
an attempt to limit independent scrutiny of the military commission proceedings and that the
denial would weaken the international human rights monitoring activities undertaken by these
organizations. Additional concerns have been expressed that the restrictions reportedly imposed
upon lawyers involved in the proceedings may infringe upon their independence and
compromise the obligation to assure a fair trial
Responses received on cases sent by the Special Representative in previous years
583. By letter dated 21 October 2004, the Government replied to the communication sent by
the Special Representative on 6 November 2003 regarding the situation of two anti-war
protestors, Willow Rosenthal and Erik Shaw. In its response, the Government informed the
Special Representative that all of the 25 arrested anti-war protestors had now been released, after
the charges against one defendant were dropped on 10 March 2004, and against the remaining 24
defendants on 22 April 2004. Apparently, the decision was taken after several peaceful protests
by the same organizations were held in the ensuing months. Further, the Oakland, Califi, Police
Department, although by no means as an admission of guilt for alleged crimes, has changed its
crowd-control tactics. In particular, greater efforts have been made to coordinate with protest
organizers before the event and new restrictions have been place on the use of non-lethal
munitions. The Government confirms that a civil lawsuit has been filed before a federal court by
nine International Longshore and Warehouse Union members and 31 other protesters. It is stated
that the two parties were, at the time of writing, engaged in out-of-court settlement negotiations.
In reference to specific allegation of the surveillance of Erik Shaw, the Government declined to
comment, but highlighted that no domestic or international law prohibited the photographing of
individuals in public. They also stated that no government action had been taken against Mr
Shaw or his organization.
Observations
584. The Special Representative would like to thank the Government for its response to last
year's communication. The Special Representative is encouraged by the decision to review the
nature of police procedures and tactics in this context. She looks forward to remaining informed
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about decisions taken in this respect. She regrets that at the time of the finalization of her report
no response had been received to her communication sent this year.
Uzbekistan
Communications sent
585. On 23 December 2003, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the
Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent a follow-up urgent appeal concerning
allegations that a conference on the death penalty organized in Tashkent by the non-
governmental organization Mothers against the Death Penalty and Torture, has been
prevented from taking place. According to information received, on 12 December 2003 the
authorities indicated that the conference could not be held since it was organized by an
unregistered organization. Mothers against the Death Penalty and Torture has reportedly been
denied registration by the authorities. Representatives of the organization have allegedly been the
subject of harassment in the past. They have allegedly received death threats after their
participation in the annual meeting of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
(EBRD) in May 2003. Members of the organization were reportedly told repeatedly by Secret
Service officers that their organization was “blacklisted” and that the Secret Service was awaiting
orders to close the organization. Concern has been expressed that Mothers against the Death
Penalty and Torture has been targeted due to its work on behalf of human rights in the context of
the death penalty and torture.
586. On 16 January 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-up
urgent appeal concerning Ruslan Sharipov, a 25-year-old journalist and human rights defender.
According to the information received, Ruslan Sharipov was allegedly excluded from a general
amnesty announced in December 2003 by the President, reportedly on the ground that the crime
he committed was “too serious”. According to our previous information, Ruslan Sharipov was
arrested on 29 May 2003 and convicted on 13 August by the Tashkent City Court on charges of
homosexual conduct, sex with a minor and involving minors in “antisocial behaviour” (articles
120, 128 and 127 of the Criminal Code). He was reportedly first sentenced to five and a half
years in prison, which was subsequently reduced to four years following his appeal in
September. This was maintained despite reports indicating that forensic medial tests conducted
after his arrest found no evidence of sexual relations with minors and despite reported evidence
that his confessions were obtained under duress. Reports also indicate that Mr. Sharipov may
have been framed in connection to his human rights activities, including his reporting on police
corruption and human rights abuses in the country. Fears have been expressed that his exclusion
from the presidential general amnesty may aim at further targeting him for his activities in the
defence of human rights. It is reported that calls have been made for the presidential general
amnesty to extend to his conviction.
587. On 16 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the
Special Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Fatima
Mukhadirova, a 62-year-old woman, who was reportedly sentenced on 12 February 2004 in a
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closed court hearing to six years in prison with hard labour for possession of unsanctioned
religious literature, membership in a prohibited religious organization, and “attempted
encroachment on the constitutional order”. The authorities alleged that Fatima Mukhadirova is a
member of Hizb ut-Tahrir (Party of Liberation), a non-violent Muslim group advocating the
peaceful establishment of an Islamic State in Uzbekistan. It is believed that Mrs. Mukhadirova,
whose youngest son is reportedly also in prison on charges of Hizb ut-Tahrir membership, may
have been arrested for having spoken out during the mission of the Special Rapporteur on the
question of torture in Uzbekistan against the ongoing arrests of independent Muslims and for
having reported on the case of her eldest son, Muzafar Avazov, a religious prisoner who died in
prison from torture in August 2002.
588. On 25 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-
up urgent appeal concerning Fatima Mukhadirova. According to the information received, on
12 February 2004 Fatima Mukhadirova was sentenced in a closed court hearing for possession of
unsanctioned religious literature, membership of prohibited religious organizations and
unconstitutional activities. It has been alleged that the accusations were unproven and that her
arrest may have been linked to her having raised the case of the death of her son with
international bodies and in particular her meeting with the Special Rapporteur on the question of
torture. On 24 February 2004, the Tashkent city court reportedly decided to release Fatima
Mukhadirova, on the grounds of her gender and her old age, and sentenced her to pay a fine of
280,000 sums, which is reportedly equal to two-thirds of the average annual income. The Special
Representative and the Special Rapporteur welcome the reported release of Ms. Mukhadirova.
They express their concern, however, at the heavy fine imposed on her. Fear has been expressed
that the fine may represent an attempt to hinder her human rights activities and in particular her
efforts to obtain an investigation into the death of her son in custody.
589. On 26 February 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent an urgent appeal concerning Muidinjon Kurbanov,
chairman of a regional branch of the Human Rights Society of Uzbekistan (1-IRSU) and of a
coalition of human rights organizations, as well as chairman of the Jizzakh province branch of
Birlik (Unity), an opposition and pro-democracy political movement. According to the
information received, on 5 January 2004, Muidinjon Kurbanov was reportedly taken to the
provincial Department of Internal Affairs by officers from the Jizzakh Province Department for
Anti-Terrorism and Narcotics, interrogated for several hours about his human rights and political
activities and asked to reappear for further interrogation on the following day. On 16 February
2004, he was reportedly arrested on weapons and narcotics charges, after police conducted an
illegal search of his property. According to the information received, the police reportedly found
weapons and narcotics in a chicken coop close to his home. It is reported that his wife recounted
that on 6 February 2004 an unknown man had entered the courtyard and ran away when she went
to investigate. It is further alleged that, on the following morning, she found that the lock of the
chicken coop had been opened, raising suspicions that evidence may have been planted.
Muidinjon Kurbanov was reportedly held incommunicado for three days, during which time he
was allegedly interrogated, threatened and forced to sign a confession dictated by the police. In
particular, it is alleged that the police threatened that if he did not confess to the charges they
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would bring in his wife and take him to the basement where they would “show him” why he
should confess. Muidinjon Kurbanov was reportedly denied access to his lawyer until 20
February 2004, after the latter filed a complaint with the procuracy. Muidinjon Kurbanov is
reportedly currently in custody at the Jizzakh City Department of Internal Affairs. Fears have
been expressed that he is at risk of ill-treatment. Concern has also been expressed that his arrest
may be linked to his human rights and political work. Concern is heightened by the fact that
Muidinjon Kurbanov had already been arrested in 1998 on trumped-up narcotics charges. On that
occasion, he was reportedly threatened with charges of religious extremism, and repeatedly
beaten while in custody, which reportedly caused one of his kidneys to burst.
590. On 14 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent a follow-up
urgent appeal concerning Ruslan Sharipov, a journalist and human rights activist. Ruslan
Sharipov was reportedly found guilty on 13 August 2003 under articles 120 (homosexuality) and
128 (sexual relations with a minor) of the Criminal Code, despite the lack of forensic medical
evidence, and sentenced on appeal to four years in prison. He was reportedly subjected to torture
and threats while in detention. It is widely believed that his prosecution was linked to his work as
an investigative journalist and a human rights defender, in particular reporting on corruption and
human rights abuses. According to recent information received, Mr. Sharipov, who is reportedly
eligible for early release on 11 June 2004, has reportedly been placed since 13 March 2004 under
house arrest and is required to report to a low-security prison for work every day. It is reported
that such a transfer is automatic once one-quarter of a sentence has been completed. In this
context, it is alleged that he has been barred from resuming his human rights and journalism
activities, under threat of losing the possibility of early release. In particular, it is reported that
Mr. Sharipov will not be allowed to travel to Istanbul in late May 2004 to receive an award on
the occasion of the World Newspaper Congress and World Editors' Forum.
591. On 30 June 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning Mr. Bobomurod Abdullayev, director of OZOD OVOZ, a non-governmental
organization that works on freedom of opinion and expression in Uzbekistan. On 12 June 2004,
Bobomurod Abdullayev came to Baku as a participant in the eleventh General Meeting of the
International Freedom of Expression Exchange (IFEX). On 13 June 2004, police reportedly
visited his house in the Kizil-Shark Chilanzarsk region of Uzbekistan. His wife was allegedly
questioned by the police about his travel and about the work of the IFEX conference. According
to information received, on 14 June, a policeman returned to Abdullayev's home and reportedly
told his wife that there was a warrant outstanding for his arrest. Since then, Abdullayev's wife
and two young children have left their home out of fear for their security. Although no charges
were apparently specified, it is believed that this police harassment and the threat of arrest may
be connected with OZOD OVOZ's activities on behalf of freedom of expression in Uzbekistan.
592. On 3 August 2004, the Special Representative sent a letter of allegation concerning the
reported closure of the Open Society Institute (OSI) in Tashkent. According to information
received, on 14 April 2004 the Open Society Institute in Tashkent was shut down by the
Government of Uzbekistan owing to the reported refusal by the Ministry of Justice to renew its
registration. It is further alleged that, before the closure, members of staff in the OSI office in
Tashkent received death threats and were subjected to other forms of intimidation. According to
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reports, the Uzbek authorities allegedly stated that OSI materials supplied to universities in
Uzbekistan “distort(ed) the essence and the content of socio-economic, public and political
reforms conducted in Uzbekistan” and “discredit(ed) Uzbek government policies”. The decision
was reportedly based on a December 2003 decree in which the Government of Uzbekistan
requested international NGOs operating in the country to register with the Ministry of Justice and
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before 1 April 2004. It is reported that this decree may have been
adopted to enforce the law on non-governmental and non-commercial organizations adopted in
May 1999, which requires international NGOs to register with the Ministry of Justice of the
Republic of Uzbekistan. Concern is expressed that the OSI section based in Tashkent may have
been targeted in an attempt to prevent it from carrying our human rights activities. Further
concern is expressed that this law may be implemented to create a nexus between NGOs and
terrorism.
Communications received
593. By letter dated 6 January 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 23
December 2003. The Government stated that Mothers against the Death Penalty and Torture
had not filed an application for official registration of its statutes at the Ministry of Justice in
accordance with the Non-State Non-Profit Organizations Act and the Voluntary Associations Act
and was thus an unregistered non-governmental organization. As such, its activities may be
considered as contrary to the national legislation in force. The Government indicated that the
organization was prohibited to hold a conference on the death penalty in Tashkent on 5
December 2003, owing to its lack of registration. In its reply, the Government provided
information concerning the issue of death penalty in Uzbekistan. In particular, it pointed out that
the death penalty has been deleted from several articles of the Criminal Code, and that the actual
number of sentences involving the death penalty has decreased since 1999. The Government also
mentioned that an individual sentenced to death may appeal against the judgement by several
means, and that, in several instances, the death penalty has been commuted to deprivation of
liberty.
594. By letter dated 1 March 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 25
February 2004. The Government indicated that, on 24 February 2004, in second instance, the
court of appeal of the Tashkent City Court on criminal cases revised the sentence adopted by the
Shayhantohur District Court on 12 February 2004 with regard to Mrs. Fatima Mukhadirova.
The court replaced the previous ruling of six years imprisonment with a sentence relating to a
fine under articles 57 and 60 of the Criminal Code. According the reply, Mrs. Mukhadirova was
released from imprisonment.
595. By letter dated 22 April 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 26
February 2004. The Government reported that, on 16 February 2004, a search was conducted in
the home and adjacent premises of Muidinjon Kurbanov, based on a decision approved by the
procurator of Zarbdar district, Djizik oblast. On 19 February 2004, Mr. Kurbanov was charged
based on discovering weapons, ammunition and narcotics during this search. According to the
Government's reply, Mr. Kurbanov was held criminally liable for the commission of offences,
unrelated to his human rights protection activities. The Government underlined that he was
detained in accordance with the Code of Criminal Procedure, and that, on 27 February 2004, this
measure was given up in exchange for his signing a pledge of good conduct. It stated that three
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lawyers represented him during the investigation, and that they participated when the basic
investigative measures were carried out. According to the reply, the preliminary investigation
into the case had ended, and, on 1 March 2004, the case was referred to the court for
consideration of the merits.
596. By letter dated 27 October 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 30
June 2004. The Government stated that, on 14 June 2004, the authorities had checked whether
residents of all apartments and houses in “Qizil Sharq” area of the Chilanzar District were
complying with passport regulations, including the house where Bobomurod Abdullayev lives.
The control was carried out by the Chilanzar District Department for internal affairs, the
chairperson of the community of citizens and housing administrators, under the instruction of the
Tashkent City Internal Affairs Department. The Government indicated that the authorities
established that that Mr. Abdullayev had been away for a business trip and that his wife and
parents had been at home. No illegal action was taken against his family members. The
Government assured the Special Representative that no arrest warrant had been issued against
Mr. Abdullayev in this connection. The Government underlined that neither Mr. Abdullayev, nor
members of his family have complained to the authorities about the incident referred to in the
communication sent by the Special Representative.
597. By letter dated 28 October 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 3
August 2004 concerning the Open Society Institute (051). Unfortunately, the English
translation was not available in time to be examined and included in this report, and will thus be
reported next year.
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
598. By letter dated 18 February 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent
jointly with the Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the
Special Rapporteur on the question of torture and the Chairperson-Rapporteur of the Working
Group on Arbitrary Detention on 22 October 2003 concerning Fatima Mukhadirova. The
Government referred to its previous response dated 28 November 2003 and provided additional
information: It indicated that, on 12 February 2004, the Shayhantohur District Court found
Fatima Mukhadirova guilty of offences under articles 159.3 (a) and (b), 244-1.3 (a) and 59 of the
Criminal Code, for continuing her unlawful activities in a religious extremist organization with a
view to undermining the constitutional foundation of Uzbek society. The court sentenced her to
deprivation of liberty for six years, partly incorporating a suspended sentence decided by the
same court on 5 November 2001. The Government reported that Fatima Mukhadirova lodged an
appeal with the Tashkent City Court against this ruling, and that a consideration of this appeal
was scheduled for 24 February 2004.
Observations
599. The Special Representative thanks the Government of Uzbekistan for responding to most
of her communications, which attests to its willingness to cooperate with her mandate. She refers
to her main report to the Commission on Human Rights (E/CN.4/2005/101) for a detailed
analysis of the trends in the situation of human rights defenders in Uzbekistan, and for her
observations to these trends. She encourages the Government to review favourably her request,
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first sent on 24 May 2001 and reiterated most recently on 2 December 2004, for an invitation to
conduct an official visit to the country.
Venezuela
Comunicaciones enviadas
600. El 25 de mayo de 2004, la Representante Especial enviô un llamamiento urgente en
relacion con Liliana Ortega, presidenta del Comité de Familiares de Victimas del 27 de Febrero
(COFAVIC). Junto con otras organizaciones nacionales e internacionales, el COFAVIC habria
pedido püblicamente que se llevaran a cabo investigaciones independientes e imparciales sobre
presuntas violaciones de derechos humanos que se habrlan cometido entre el 27 de febrero y 4 de
marzo de 2004. Segün los informes, al menos 14 personas habrian muerto y más de 200 habrian
resultado heridas durante enfrentamientos entre manifestantes de oposiciôn y las fuerzas de
seguridad. Ademas, se informa que el 12 de mayo de 2004, un individuo no identificado habria
colocando folletos en la entrada principal de la sede de la organizaciôn COFAVIC en Caracas.
Los folletos habrian contenido amenazas de muerte y frases insultantes, asi como una caricatura
de Liliana Ortega diciendo: “A ml me pagan para que defienda los derechos humanos de los
malandros de la oposiciôn”. Se informa ademas que ese mismo dia, COFAVIC habr la recibido
una serie de llamadas telefonicas de individuos no identificados que habr lan pedido informacion
sobre Liliana Ortega y el COFAVIC. Se teme que las amenazas estén relacionadas con el trabajo
dentro del area de derechos humanos de Liliana Ortega y COFAVIC y en particular con la
documentacion y denuncia de los malos tratos por parte de miembros de la policia y de las
fuerzas de seguridad durante las violencias politicas en Venezuela en febrero y marzo de 2004.
El caso de Liliana Ortega ya the sujeto de un llamamiento urgente enviado conjuntamente por la
Relatora Especial sobrejecuciones extrajudiciales, sumarias o arbitrarias y la Representante
Especial el 25 de abril de 2002.
Observaciones
601. The Special Representative regrets that at the time of the finalization of this report, the
Government had not transmitted a reply to her communication.
Viet Nam
Communications sent
602. On 6 January 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent a follow-up urgent appeal concerning Dr. Nguyen
Dan Que, who was reportedly arrested on 17 March 2003, four days after he allegedly issued a
statement alleging the lack of respect for the right to freedom of information in Vietnam.
According to new information received, Dr. Nguyen Dan Que was accused of espionage but the
formal charges against him and the date of a possible trial are not known. He is reported to have
been denied access to his legal representatives and relatives since his arrest. He is also reported
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to be suffering from a blood pressure condition, a bleeding peptic ulcer and kidney stones.
Medication which he needs for his serious condition has reportedly been provided to the
detention centre where he is held, but it is not known whether this has in fact been given to him.
In view of his reported incommunicado detention, fears have been expressed that he may be at
risk of torture or other forms of ill-treatment. Concern has also been expressed for his physical
integrity if he does not receive prompt and adequate medical treatment
603. On 22 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, the Special
Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms of indigenous people and
the Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions, sent a letter of
allegation relating to the situation of the Degar tribe (Montagnards) in some areas of the
Vietnamese central highlands. According to the information received, on 10 and 11 April on the
occasion of Easter celebrations, between 10,000 and 30,000 Christian members of the Degar
tribe reportedly gathered in the cities of Buon Ma Tuor, Kontum, Dalat, Phuoc Long and Plei Ku
as well as in other areas, to protest alleged ongoing repression against hill tribes and violations of
their human rights, including their right to freedom of religion, by the authorities. The
demonstrations were allegedly violently suppressed by the Vietnamese authorities, reportedly
causing an as-yet-undetermined number of casualties. Although it seems that exact figures of the
casualties are difficult to assess, it is reported that the authorities are still barring access to the
area by independent observers and have imposed a news blackout on hospital personnel, some
reports mention that at least 10 Montagnards were killed, including one from a gunshot wound in
the head and others from beatings, and hundreds were allegedly wounded. It is alleged that
security forces, supported by men in civilian clothes armed with metal bars, shovels, clubs with
nails attached to them, machetes and chains, confronted Montagnard protesters in the area
around Buon Ma Tuor, the capital of the Dak Lak province, on the morning of 10 April, seeking
to prevent them from accessing main cities where protests were to be organized. The protesters
who were reportedly not armed are said to have attempted to defend themselves by throwing
stones at the security forces. Further reports indicate that hundreds of Montagnards have fled
their villages and have gone into hiding. The situation of Montagnard or Degar peoples has
already been addressed by the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights and
fundamental freedoms of indigenous people in his communications with the Government in
2002. It is reported that, over the last decades, indigenous Montagnards have been facing
military operations during which arrests, beatings and extrajudicial executions at the hands of
Vietnamese security forces were alleged to have occurred. The destruction of several churches
has also been reported.
604. On 21 July 2004, the Special Representative sent a follow-up urgent appeal concerning
Dr. Nguyen Dan Que, human rights defender. According to information received on 13 March
2003, Dr. Nguyen Dan Que reportedly issued a statement alleging that there was no freedom of
expression in Vietnam. On 17 March 2003 he was allegedly arrested outside his home in Ho Chi
Minh City and held incommunicado for significant periods during his detention. According to
new information received, on 19 July 2004 Dr. Nguyen Dan Que was brought to trial in Ho Chi
Minh City where he reportedly spent 16 months in detention. Reports indicate that he was
charged with “abusing democratic rights to jeopardize the interests of the State”. It has also been
alleged that Dr. Nguyen Dan Que has been denied access to legal consultation and that his family
have not been given a formal charge sheet detailing the accusations against him. In view of these
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reports it is feared that he may be deprived of his right to legal representation during his trial.
Concern has also been expressed for his physical integrity as he is reported to be suffering from
high blood pressure, kidney stones and a bleeding ulcer. Further concern is expressed that Dr.
Nguyen Dan Que may have been arrested and detained in an attempt to hinder his human rights
activities.
605. On 7 September 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Chairperson-
Rapporteur of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, sent an urgent appeal concerning Rev.
Nguyen long Quang, aged 45, Vice President and General Secretary of the Mennonite Church
in Vietnam. He was reportedly arrested on 8 June 2004 on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh City and
taken to the jail at the District 2 Public Security Police Station. Reports indicate that police
ransacked his home and office and informed his colleagues that they were charging him with
“inciting others to oppose an officer carrying out his official duty”. Police also confiscated four
computers and numerous books and papers, including his legal files on human rights cases. Rev.
Nguyen Hong Quang has defended land-rights cases of impoverished farmers from the
provinces, spoken out against the arrests of religious and political dissidents, and drawn attention
to the situation of minority Christian churches in Vietnam. On 18 May 2004, he made public a
report entitled “Violations of the law by public security officers of District 2 and Ho Chi Minh
City in the forcible detention of the four Mennonite evangelists”.
606. On 25 November 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on freedom of religion or belief, sent a follow-up letter of allegation concerning the Mennonite
Church, and in particular Rev. Nguyen Hong Quang. According to new information received,,
after a trial that took only four hours and was marred by some procedural shortcomings, Nguyen
Hong Quang was convicted to three years of imprisonment on 12 November 2004 by the
people's court of Ho Chi Minh City in connection with his religious convictions and related
activities for “resisting persons doing official duty”. It is also reported that several of his
collaborators, Pham Ngoc Thach, Le Thi Hong Lien, Nguyen Van Phuong, Nguyen Huu Nghia
and Nguyen Thanh Nhan received sentences of between 9 and 36 months for the same offense.
Communications received
607. By letter dated 2 April 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 6
January 2004 concerning Dr. Dan Que Nguyen. The Government underlined that freedom of
expression and freedom of information are enshrined in domestic law, and that torture and any
other form of inhumane treatment and punishments are strictly forbidden. It stated that these
rights are guaranteed and strictly observed in practice. In its reply, the Government stated that
the information and allegations contained in the communication sent by the Special
Representative are unfounded. It indicated that Dr. Que was arrested for having committed acts
in violation of article 80 of the Criminal Code of Vietnam, and he will be brought to trial when
investigation procedures have been completed. The Government stated that the right of the
defendant to a fair proceeding before the court shall be guaranteed in strict accordance with the
law. Finally, the Government assured the Special Representative and special rapporteurs that Dr.
Que was in good health.
608. By letter dated 14 May 2004, the Government replied to a letter of allegation sent on 22
April 2004. The Government stated that the allegations and information contained in the
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communication were unfounded. It reported that, on 10 and 11 April 2004, some extremist
elements in Dak Lak and Gia Lai provinces induced, deceived and forced local people to carry
out demonstrations. This conduct was instigated and instructed from outside, especially from the
Montagnard Foundation. The reply indicated that the extremists committed acts aimed at causing
public disorder, dividing people of the Central Highlands, damaging Vietnam's great national
unity and undermining its territorial integrity. It reported that they had used dangerous weapons,
destroyed public property, attacked some commune headquarters, and captured local officials.
The Government stated that, in view of such violent acts, the law-enforcement forces and the
people had to take defensive action. It mentioned that measures have been taken to stabilize the
situation and that only the instigators, leaders and those who committed acts against public
officers on duty were been held in custody by the local government. In its reply, the Government
also reported that there was no repression of Protestants, and that Protestants in the Central
Highland enjoy favourable conditions for religious practices.
609. By letter dated 18 August 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 21
July 2004. The Government reported that, on 29 July 2004, the People's Court of Ho Chi Minh
City held an open criminal trial in first instance for Dr. Nguyen Dan Que. It stated that the court
examined the case in strict accordance with the law and found the defendant guilty. Dr. Que was
sentenced to two years and six months of imprisonment under article 258 of the Penal Code,
based on his abusive use of democratic freedoms to infringe upon the interests of the State and
his violation of the rights and interests of organizations and citizens.
610. By letter dated 14 October 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 7
September 2004 concerning Nguyen long Quang. The Government indicated that the
information and allegations referred to in the communication sent by the Special Representative
were unfounded. It referred to several acts in violation of the law carried out by Mr. Quang. In
particular, the Government stated that, on 2 March 2004, Mr. Quang and other individuals
chased up and violently assaulted two youngsters, tried to assassinate them, took away their
motorbikes, caused public chaos and fought violently against the police. The Government
indicated that, on 8 June 2004, the police arrested Mr. Quang on the charge of “fighting against
on-duty public officers”, and that four other persons already had been charged in connection with
the incident.
611. By letter dated 6 December 2004, the Government replied to the letter of allegation sent
on 25 November 2004. The Government reiterated its reply dated 14 October 2004, and referred
to several violations of the law carried out by Nguyen long Quang. It confirmed that, on 12
November 2004, the People's Court of Ho Chi Minh City convicted Mr. Quang to three years
imprisonment. The Government reported that he had been charged with “assaulting on-duty
public officers” and that he was convicted in accordance with article 257 of the Penal Code.
According to the reply, the trial was conducted in full and strict observance of due process.
612. By letter dated 31 January 2005, the Government replied to the case of Nguyen long
Quang. The Government informed the Special Representantative that, on 31 January 2005, the
Office of the President announced the President's decision to grant special amnesty for 8.428
inmates, including Mr. Quang. It stated that the decision was based on a humanitarian and lenient
policy towards those who have showed sincere attitude of repentace and made remarkable
progress while serving their imprisonment sentence.
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Observations
613. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its numerous replies. She
welcomes the release of Nguyen long Quang. She expresses her serious concern about the
alleged arrests of human rights defenders in connection with their public statements. She remains
concerned about the reports of arrests, assaults and killings of demonstrators.
Zambia
Communciations sent
614. On 23 February 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal concerning Sara
Longwe, a member of United Nations Coalition of Non-Governmental Organizations (CONGO)
and a human rights defender on gender issues in Zambia, her husband Peter Clarke, a journalist,
and their daughter. According to the information received, on 5 January 2004, the Minister of
Home Affairs reportedly issued a deportation order requiring Peter Clarke, a British citizen, to
leave the country within 24 hours. This deportation order is reportedly connected to an article he
had written in his weekly satirical column in The Post newspaper. It was already the subject of
an urgent appeal by the Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression on
3 February 2003. According to new information received, on 12 February 2004, Peter Clarke
was allegedly arrested and detained for assaulting a police officer at the Chelston police office in
Lusaka. He was reportedly released on bail the following day. On 16 February 2003, he
appeared in court on charges of assault and disorderly conduct. His next hearing is reportedly
due to take place in March 2004. According to additional information received, on 12 February
2004, the eldest daughter of Sara Longwe and Peter Clarke was reportedly kidnapped while
driving her mother's car. She was reportedly stopped by armed assailants who pointed a gun at
her, questioning her as to her mother's whereabouts. They then reportedly hijacked the car,
placed Sara Longwe's daughter on the car floor behind the driver's seat and drove away, asking
for money and threatening to kill her. The hijackers allegedly drove for two hours before
dumping her on a small dirt road in Chamba Valley. During the incident, the hijackers reportedly
claimed to be acting under someone else's orders and stopped to pick up an additional person
who was rheard saying : “You've got the child.” It is believed that the assailants had intended to
attack either Sara Longwe or Peter Clarke. Fear has been expressed that the alleged harassment
of Peter Clarke and of his daughter may be connected to the human rights activities of Sara
Longwe and, in particular ,her campaign work against gender-oppressive policies in Zambia.
Communications received
615. By letter dated 25 February 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 23
February 2004. The Government stated that Mr. Clarke and his family have never been tortured.
It reported that Mr. Clarke was to be deported after he insulted the president as well as the people
of Zambia. The Government indicated that he had appealed to the High Court, and the
deportation order had not been implemented at the time, pending the outcome of the court's
decision. As for the kidnapping of Mr. Clarke's daughter, the Government stated that Mr. Clarke
went to report the incident to the police. While at the police station, he became unruly and
assaulted a police officer. The case was pending at the time, and Mr. Clarke had been released on
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bail. The Government informed that Mr. Clarke's daughter had been found and that there was an
investigation ongoing at the time.
616. By letter dated 25 March 2004, the Government provided additional information with
regards to the urgent appeal sent on 23 February 2004 concerning Sara Longwe, Peter Clarke,
and their daughter. The Government referred to its preliminary reply dated 25 February 2004. It
informed that the Government could not comment upon the merits of Mr. Clarke's deportation
and assault cases, as these were being considered before courts. The Government stated that Mr.
Clarke was receiving a fair trial under national laws. As to the alleged kidnapping of Mr.
Clarke's daughter, the Government reported that the matter received the full attention of the
police, and that investigations into the matter were being carried out. According to the
Government, the concerns that the alleged harassment of Mr. Clarke and his daughter may be
connected to Sara Longwe's human rights activities were unfounded and unjustified. The
Government stated that it was committed to the advancement of human rights of women, and
that the Government worked closely together with civil society for the promotion and protection
of the human rights of women.
Observations
617. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its response to her
communication. She welcomes steps taken by the Government in investigating the kidnapping
of the Clarke's daughter and the release of Peter Clarke. The Special Representative will monitor
the outcome of the various investigations and invites the Government to keep her informed of the
developments.
Zimbabwe
Communications sent
618. On 13 January 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning the situation of Douglas Togarasei Mwonyora, a lawyer and human rights
defender, and a spokesperson for the National Constitutional Assembly (NCA), a network of
NGOs which was subject to an urgent action by the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and
protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Chairperson-Rapporteur of the
Working Group on Arbitrary Detention and Special Representative of the Secretary-General on
human rights defenders on 27 October 2003. According to the information received, the police
allegedly arrested Douglas Togarasei Mwonyora in Harare on 15 December, claiming that
Mwonyora had insulted President Mugabe in a radio interview, reportedly with statements
calling Mugabe's withdrawal from the Commonwealth “foolish bravery”. Douglas Togarasei
Mwonyora has reportedly been charged with contravening section 16 (2) of the Public Order and
Security Act (POSA). It is reported that Mwonyora was remanded to custody until 14 January
2004 and was granted bail in the amount of Z$ 30,000. Fear has been expressed that Douglas
Togarasei Mwonyora may have been targeted in connection with his human rights activities.
619. On 30 April 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on
the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning the situation of Roderick Fayayo, Secretary General of the University of
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Zimbabwe Union, Philani Zamchiya, president of the Zimbabwe National Students Union
(ZITNASU), and members of ZINASU Tafadzwa Mugabe, Simbarashe Machiridza, Obert
Mbuzini and Pasttense Tarondwa. According to the information received, members of the
Association of University Teachers (AUT) had been involved in a pay dispute with the Ministry
of Education since late 2002 which resulted in ongoing strike action by lecturers and other
members of staff at the University of Zimbabwe. It was reported that, as a result of the strike
action, students had not been receiving their subsistence grants or loans. On 15 March 2004, in
order to protest against the continued deadlock in negotiations between AUT and the Ministry of
Education and the effect this has had on their studies, students of the University of Zimbabwe
reportedly held a peaceful demonstration authorized by the university's administration. During
the demonstration, university security guards reportedly surrounded the student leaders to
prevent them from accessing the office of the vice-chancellor. Allegedly, when the students
refused to comply, the security guards used tear gas to disperse the demonstration and arrested
Roderick Fayayo, Philani Zamchiya, and Tafadzwa Mugabe, Simbarashe Machiridza, Obert
Mbuzini and Pasttense Tarondwa. They were reportedly brought to Avondale police station
where they were charged with public violence under common law and could face a possible
prison sentence. It is reported that their trial will be held on 9 June 2004. Concern has been
expressed that members of ZINASU have been targeted for their participation in a demonstration
to protest against the ongoing strike and to defend the rights of the students of the University of
Zimbabwe.
620. On 12 May 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur on the
promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and the Special
Rapporteur on the question of torture, sent a letter of allegation concerning the situation of
Tinashe Lukas Chimedza, former Secretary General of ZINASU, a youth and social rights
activist and the Zimbabwe nominee to the International Youth Parliament. According to the
information received, Tinashe Chimedza had been invited to speak at an Education Rights Forum
at the University of Zimbabwe scheduled for 22 April 2004. It is reported that, before the
commencement of the event, heavily armed police surrounded the hall and allegedly arrested
Tinashe Chimedza upon his arrival. The police allegedly took him to a room where they punched
and beat him with sticks before taking him to Marlborough police station. It is reported that, on
the insistence of his lawyers Otto Saki from Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) and
Jacob Mafume from Human Rights Forum, Tinashe Chimedza, who was allegedly unconscious
and bleeding heavily from the mouth, was taken from the police station to hospital, where he
remained under police surveillance. According to the information received, Tinashe Chimedza
was detained based on an arrest warrant issued against him in 2001 for having committed acts of
violence during a student demonstration when he was Secretary General of ZINASU. He was
reportedly granted bail on 29 April 2004. Concern is expressed that Tinashe Chimedza is being
targeted for his work as a student's rights advocate.
621. On 1 September 2004, the Special Representative sent an urgent appeal concerning a
number of provision contains in the new draft Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO) Bill
2004. The Special Representative had sent an allegation letter on 6 November 2003 expressing
concern about previous NGO law, the Private Voluntary Organizations (PVO) Act of 1967.
According to the information received, the draft NGO Bill to repeal the PVO Act was publicized
in Zimbabwe in Gazette No. 68 on 20 August 2004. The draft bill requires that all NGOs and
Church-based organizations in Zimbabwe register with a newly established “Non-Governmental
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Organizations Council”. Section 9 of the bill reportedly criminalizes any organization operating
without being registered and imposes criminal sanctions of up to five months imprisonment to
the board member of such an NGO. It is reported that NGOs already registered under the
existing PVO Act will be granted a one-year grace period before being required to re-register,
whereas NGOs not required to register under the PVO Act will be deemed illegal until the NGO
Council accepts their registration. Concerns have also been expressed with regards to the
independence and wide-ranging powers of the registration body. In particular, it is reported that
the NGO Council will be composed of five NGO representatives and nine government
representatives, all appointed by the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare.
Additionally, section 4 of the draft bill reportedly grants the Council the authority to “determine
every application for registration ... , conduct investigations into the administration and activities
of NGOs ... , take disciplinary actions ... , [ and] formulate a code of conduct for NGOs”. Concern
has been expressed that this may grant government authorities overly broad control over the
creation and authorized activities of NGOs. Concerns have also been expressed with regards to
the restrictive provisions prohibiting access to funding for local NGOs working on human rights
and governance issues, in particular those included in section 17, which reportedly provides that,
“No local NGO shall receive foreign fhnding or donation to carry out activities involving or
including acts of governance”. Further concern is expressed with regards to the prohibition for
international NGOs to carry out human rights work. In particular, it is reported that section 9 of
the bill states that “No foreign NGO may be registered if its sole or principal objects involve or
include any issues of governance”, with governance defined as including the “protection and
promotion of human rights”. While recognizing that it is within the ambit of States' authorities
to regulate the operation of NGOs, I am gravely concerned that the framework laid out in the
draft NGO Bill may result in the prohibition of legitimate activities for the defence of human
rights in Zimbabwe and lead to the criminalization and closure of many existing human rights
organizations. I would like to draw the attention of the Government to the Declaration on Human
Rights Defenders, adopted by consensus by the General Assembly on 9 December 1998,
especially its article 5(b), which provides that “everyone has the right, individually or in
association with others, to form, join and participate in non governmental organizations,
associations or groups”, and article 6(c), which provides that “everyone has the right,
individually or in association with others to study, discuss, form and hold opinions on the
observance, both in law and in practice, of all human rights and fundamental freedoms and,
though these and other appropriate means, to draw public attention to those matters”.
622. On 29 September 2004, the Special Representative, together with the Special Rapporteur
on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, sent an urgent
appeal concerning 52 women, members of Women of Zimbabwe Arise (Woza), who were
reportedly arrested during a protest march against new legislation which would allegedly ban
foreign human rights groups and bar local advocacy groups from campaigning on “issues of
governance” and allow restrictions to human rights organizations work. The women reportedly
walked 250 miles from Bulawayo and were stopped just 19 miles from Harare, their destination.
It is reported that the marchers, and four men who volunteered to protect them as they slept by
the roadside en route, were taken to Norton police station. The police reportedly accused them of
staging an illegal protest and that, although they had claimed initially that the march was
organized to raise fhnd for their church, they were found canying placards with political
messages.
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Communications received
623. By letter dated 21 May 2004, the Government replied to the urgent appeal sent on 30
April 2004. The Government informed the Special Representative that the student demonstration
on 15 March 2004, in which more then 800 students participated, had not been sanctioned by the
authorities as required by the Public Order and Security Act and the University of Zimbabwe
Ordnance 30. It stated that university guards had dispersed the students and arrested 10 of them,
including Roderick Fayayo, Simbarashe Machiridza, Obert Mbuzini and Pasttense
Tarondwa. According to the Government's reply, the police were called to the scene, but did not
intervene. The Government reported that, in the course of the demonstration, someone threw a
tear canister at the students and that the police were not involved in the incident. It rejected the
allegation that the police had charged the students.
624. By letter dated 5 August 2004, the Government replied to the letter of allegation sent on
12 May 2004. The Government reported to the Special Representative that, on 22 April 2004, the
police were made aware that students at the University of Zimbabwe were preparing to hold an
unsanctioned meeting and that Tinashe Lukas Chimedza was going to speak at the meeting.
Four police officers were deployed to monitor the situation. The Government stated that one of
the police officers asked Mr. Chimedza to identify himself, and that he responded by punching
the police officer, who then staggered backwards. According to the Government's reply, as a
result members of the public started to assault Mr. Chimedza and that two police officers had a
difficult time trying to restrain the assault against Mr. Chimedza. According to the Government's
account, they finally managed to take Mr. Chimedza, who had been injured, to the hospital. The
Government underlined that he received medical attention under police guard. The Government
indicated that at that point, he had been put under arrest for assaulting a police officer and for
malicious injury to property and vandalism dating back to 2001. According to the reply, on 23
April 2004, Mr. Chimedza was charged with the assault. He pleaded guilty and paid a fine. The
Government reported that the cases, based on incidents dating back to 2001, are pending before
the courts.
625. By letter dated 2 September 2004, the Government responded to the urgent appeal sent
by the Special Representative on 1 September 2004. The Government reaffirmed its
responsibility to legislate in the national interest. It stated that the Non-Governmental
Organizations (NGO) Bill 2004 is intended to ensure that social protection is guaranteed and
that it does not remain in the hands of dubious players who are not accountable. The Government
argued that foreign-fhnded organizations and foreign organizations have proven to be a threat to
national security when it comes to dealings with governance issues. The Government asserted
that it will never tolerate that foreign donors fund instability and chaos in Zimbabwe, non-
governmental organizations or individuals. The Government explained that the NGO Bill 2004
aimed at hindering foreign donors employing local puppets or others to champion foreign values
or governance issues, most of which espouse the policies of Governments which are anti-
Zimbabwe, under cover of “human rights” and “democracy”. The Government commented that,
as far as unregistered organizations are concerned, these are already illegal under the Private
Voluntary Organizations Act.
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
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626. By letter dated 19 February 2004, the Government provided replies to several of the
communications sent by the Special Representative in 2003. In their content, the replies are
identical to some replies the Government provided last year and which were included in the
addendum to the 2004 Commission report (E/CN.4/2004/94/Add.3).
Responses received to communications sent by the Special Representative in previous years
627. By letter dated 11 March 2004, the Government provided a response to the urgent appeal
sent on 17 October 2003 concerning Beatrice Mtetwa. The Government also sent a reply dated
12 November 2003 to this communication. Regarding the alleged altercation with a police
officer, the Government informed the Special Representative that a police officer had been
charged with assault, based on allegations that the police officer assaulted Mrs. Mtetwa with
open hands and that the case is pending before courts. The Government further refered to various
communications sent by the Special Representative, including allegations of complicity and
impunity on the part of the police. In this connection, the Government pointed to several other
cases where alleged violations of human rights by police officers are fully investigated and
prosecuted.
Observations
628. The Special Representative thanks the Government for its replies. She remains gravely
concerned at the reported arrests of human rights defenders. She reaffirms her grave concern
that, while recognizing that it is within the ambit of States' authorities to regulate the operation of
NGOs, the framework laid out in the Non-Governmental Organizations Bill 2004 may result in
the prohibition of legitimate activities for the defence of human rights in Zimbabwe and lead to
the criminalization and closure of many existing human rights organizations.
