UPDATE - ACTIVISTS NOW RELEASED FROM CUSTODY MEDIA RELEASE AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL 6 September 2013 14 activists detained for peaceful protest in Fiji Amnesty International is demanding the release of a group of activists that have been detained in Fiji without explanation. 14 people have been arrested for peacefully protesting outside the President Epeli Nailatikau’s home. “They were gathering to protest amendments to the constitution which breach basic human rights.” said Michael Hayworth, Amnesty International Spokesperson. “We have been told the group includes 11 women and three men. Some are trade unionists, former politicians and human rights defenders from Fiji Women’s Rights Movement, Pacific Centre for Peacebuilding and DroMo Fiji (an LGBTI organisation). “Of particular concern is that the group remains at Police Headquarters in Fiji, unable to make contact with anyone outside the station. We are still not aware of what charges they will face. They have been advised they will be charged but have been given no further information.” Amnesty International has been told the activists have had their phones confiscated and are unable to make direct contact with their family or their colleagues. “The protest was attended by around 50 people including public figures such as former Prime Minister Mahendra Chaudhry and MP Mick Beddoes. No political leaders were arrested, only those carrying signs. “This is the latest in a long line of incidents in which the Fiji government has violated basic human rights including freedom of expression and the right to peacefully protest. “We are calling for the immediate release of the men and women and for any potential charges to be dropped." he added. For more information, including images of the protest outside the President’s home, or for an interview with an Amnesty International Spokesperson, please contact Media & Public Affairs Coordinator Amelia Freelander on +61 2 8396 7644/+61 423 280 658.
Posted on: Fri, 06 Sep 2013 01:30:47 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015