April 13, 2002

POLITICAL TRIAL, DENIAL OF DUE PROCESS

 FIVE alleged members of the Al Itihad Al Islami (Somali) Front have been sentenced to death in Addis Abeba and three others to a stiff prison term with hard labour. All were accused of "taking part in terrorist actions, which cost the lives of several people, in Addis Abeba and Dire Dawa.

 There is ample evidence that the accused were not properly represented nor was their right to a fair trial respected. Claims that they have been tortured have been made. Furthermore, there is clear evidence that their sentencing at this point in time is politically motivated by the EPRDF's desire to score points with the USA and the campaign it is leading against the Al Quaida and its allies. The Al Itihad Al Islami front is accused by the EPRDF of being an ally of the Al Quaida. It is to be noted that the EPRDF resorts to political actions against prisoners ion an attempt to score political points as was seen in the past when the alleged Eritrean killer of EPRDF commander Haielom Araya was executed when the war with Eritrea erupted.

The sentenced Al Itihad members did not get a fair trial. They have been sentenced to death and hard labor by an EPRDF which is motivated by a political desire to project a "tough anti-terrorist" image. It is a political trial and a political sentencing and as such a violation of due process of law.

SOCEPP