It is absolutely essential
that freedom of expression is ensured in Afghanistan,
said Amnesty International as the Constitutional Loya
Jirga (CLJ) draws to a close in Kabul and debate around
key issues intensifies.
Amnesty International has received reports that
intimidation and fear of retribution are preventing some
delegates from participating freely in the CLJ.
Dominance by strong political and armed factional
leaders and the absence of the rule of law in many parts
of the country contributes to an atmosphere of
insecurity for delegates who wish to act independently
of powerful political groups. Some delegates fear for
their safety of their families and for their own lives,
especially after they return home at the end of the CLJ.
It is particularly worrying that even the elected
leadership of the Loya Jirga have been involved in
curtailing the freedom of speech during the Loya Jirga.
In one example, a petition was circulated suggesting
that the country's official name should be changed from
the 'Islamic republic of Afghanistan' to the 'republic
of Afghanistan'. The petition gained over 151
signatures, but the chair of the CLJ, Sebghatollah
Mojadedi, refused to allow a vote on the issue, publicly
calling those who had sponsored the petition 'infidels'.
Amnesty International is concerned that this could place
the sponsors of this petition in serious danger.
"The onus must be on the elected leadership of the CLJ
to set an example by facilitating a free debate
upholding freedom of expression. Discussions conducted
in an atmosphere of fear will not produce a Constitution
that protects the human rights of the Afghan people."
Amnesty International concluded.
Background information
The Loya Jirga has highlighted the complex divisions
within Afghan society and debate has been heated around
a few key issues such as the role of Islam, the powers
of the Presidency and other highly symbolic issues such
as the national language.
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