STATEMENT OF THE UNITED NATIONS ASSISTANCE MISSION IN AFGHANISTAN
ATTRIBUTABLE TO BO ASPLUND, ACTING SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE SECRETARY-GENERAL
UNAMA is concerned about developments in the case against Sayed Parwez Kambaksh, a journalist who this week was sentenced to death for blasphemy by a court in Mazar.
Cases involving religion and freedom of expression occur in many countries and require care and sensitivity in their handling. The pressures for punishment, warnings to journalists, as well as the holding of this case in closed session without Mr. Kamabaksh having legal representation point to possible misuse of the judicial process. This would not serve the cause of justice.
Afghanistan’s Constitution commits it to upholding Islamic and universal human rights values, which are clearly compatible. We urge a proper and complete review of this case as it goes through the appeals process.
ENDS
Spokesperson’s Office
United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA)
Kabul, Afghanistan
www.unama-afg.org
International appeal to support the immediate release of a young Afghan Journalist
