Secretary-General, Concerned about Harsh Sentences, Lack of Due Process,

 

Calls for Release of Political Prisoners in Bahrain

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General expresses his deep concern over the harsh sentences handed down in Bahrain to civilians — medical professionals, teachers and others — by the Court of National Safety.  These proceedings were conducted under conditions that raised serious questions of due process irregularities.

The Secretary-General calls for the release of all political detainees and reiterates his appeal to the Bahraini authorities at the highest level to ensure the application of due process and respect for international human rights norms.  This will contribute to conditions for national dialogue, reconciliation and reform as sought by all the Bahraini people.

* *** *

For information media • not an official record