UN call for moratorium on executionsFrom correspondents in Geneva
November 06, 2006 12:11am
UN human rights chief Louise Arbour today called for a moratorium on executions after former Iraqi president Saddam Hussein was sentenced to death by an Iraqi court.
She also called for the rights of defendants to a fair appeal to be “fully respected”.
“A credible appeals process is an essential part of fair-trial guarantees,” she said in a statement.
“This is particularly important in this instance, in which the death penalty has been imposed.
“Those convicted today should have every opportunity to exhaust their appellate remedies in a fair way, and whatever the outcome of an appeal, I hope the government will observe a moratorium on executions.”
“Guaranteeing the right of a fair trial of persons accused of major human rights violations is key to consolidating and strengthening the very important process of ensuring justice and countering impunity that Iraq has embarked upon.”
