Kurdish media student arrested in Syria
Kurdish Organization for Defending Human Rights and Public Freedoms in Syria – DAD, and Human Rights Organization in Syria – MAF note with deep concern that Omar Osman Aleko, a 4th year media student was arrested on the outskirts of Damascus in al-Assad villages, by a political security patrol on 8 March 2010. His home was raided and his personal belongings were taken by the patrol in violation of the law. The patrol brought fear to local residents.
While we demand the repeal of emergency laws that have been in force for several decades, under which Kurds are arrested and detained, particularly those who engage in peaceful political activity in civil society and human rights organizations, and journalists, simply for expressing dissent. Their treatment violates the Constitution, public laws, international covenants and instruments, and in particular the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights – Articles 19 to 26, and the principles relating to fundamental rights and freedoms contained in the Syrian Constitution Articles 25, 28 and 38. These are laws, which guarantee the right of citizens to participate in public affairs, and to demonstrate and protest, for freedom of association and freedom of expression.
We therefore reiterate our call to abolish the emergency law, close the file on political arrests and detention against the background of the expression of opinion and interest in public affairs, and at the same time demand the release of Mr. Omar Osman Aleko, or bring him to justice if he has committed a crime. We also demand the release of other detainees who have been involved in peaceful political activity and human rights work to contribute in building the prosperity and development of this country, and to establish the values of truth and justice in Syria.
Kurdish Organization for Defending Human Rights and Public Freedoms in Syria – DAD, and Human Rights Organization in Syria – MAF
17 May 2010
