Ban urges Bahrain authorities to resolve case of jailed human rights defender
| Publisher | UN News Service |
| Publication Date | 24 April 2012 |
| Cite as | UN News Service, Ban urges Bahrain authorities to resolve case of jailed human rights defender, 24 April 2012, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/4f9a48b62.html [accessed 26 May 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
"The Secretary-General once again urges the Bahraini authorities to resolve Mr. Al-Khawaja's case based on due process and humanitarian considerations without any further delay," Mr. Ban's spokesperson said in a statement.
Earlier this month, a group of UN experts had called for the immediate release of Mr. Al-Khawaja, who was due to receive a final verdict from Bahrain's Court of Cassation today. However, according to media reports, the verdict has been postponed until 30 April.
Mr. Ban also called on Bahraini authorities to fully respect the fundamental human rights of the Bahraini people, including due process concerning all detainees.
In addition, Mr. Ban "remains concerned about the situation in Bahrain, particularly with regard to the continuing clashes between security forces and protesters which have resulted in more casualties," the statement said. "He reiterates his appeal to all sides for utmost restraint and an immediate end to the violence."
Since February, there have been clashes in Bahrain between security forces and demonstrators, a year after widespread civil protests first emerged in the country. The Secretary-General has consistently called for authorities there to exercise restraint and act in accordance with their international human rights obligations.
