Brussels, 24/05/2013 (Agence Europe) - On 24 May, the European Parliament called on the American authorities to treat the Guantanamo detainees on hunger strike “with humanity”, with respect for their dignity, and upholding human rights and fundamental freedoms. In their resolution, MEPs call on the American authorities once again to close the camp “immediately” and to prohibit the use of torture or ill treatment under any circumstances. The MEPs stress that the authorities should review the military commission system to ensure fair trials and prohibit detention without trial.
Death penalty in India and fair trials in Rwanda. In another resolution on India, MEPs condemn the execution in secret of Ayfal Guru, who was condemned to death for an attack in February 2013. The MEPs call on the Indian government not to approve any execution order in the future and to introduce a permanent moratorium.
In a third resolution, the Parliament calls for the Rwandan political opponent, Victoire Ingabire, to have a “quick and fair” appeal hearing, and the Parliament condemns the politically motivated nature of his trial. The MEPs also call for the Rwandan authorities to investigate allegations of torture and other human rights abuses, and to bring those responsible to justice. The Rwandan authorities must ensure the independence of the judicial system, freedom of expression and review the law on “genocide ideology”, the MEPs add. (CG/transl.fl)