Brussels, 02/07/2012 (Agence Europe) - On behalf of the EU, Catherine Ashton, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, has called for the immediate release of prisoners who have been arrested arbitrarily in Sudan at peaceful demonstrations against rising prices and against President al-Bashir, and urges the Sudanese government to respect its citizens' rights to freedom of expression, the freedom of the press and the freedom of assembly.
In a press release published on Saturday 30 June, Catherine Ashton's spokesperson states: “The high representative is concerned about the violent crackdowns on demonstrations that have been taking place in Khartoum and other towns over the past week. Reports of arbitrary arrests and detentions, the mistreatment of demonstrators in government custody and the excessive use of force are of particular concern. The high representative calls for the immediate release of those detained for peaceful protest and for the security forces to act with restraint.”
The spokesperson also expressed Ashton's concerns at growing levels of censorship and restrictions on the media and the political opposition, including the detention of a number of journalists and political activists. The EU argues that “the ongoing demonstrations highlight the importance of an inclusive national dialogue to address the needs and aspirations of all Sudanese citizens”, the declaration states. (AN/transl.fl)