Commonwealth Human Rights Advocacy

Pakistan: On 2 May 2008, ‘BBC News’ reported that Leaders of Pakistan's governing coalition concluded talks over how to restore the judges ousted by President Pervez Musharraf and said that they will be reinstated on 12 May.

Fiji: On 2 May 2008, ‘ABC news’ reported that Fiji Times Publisher Evan Hannah has been deported from Fiji, despite a court order against the action. Australia's foreign minister has denounced the move to deport Hannah, who Fiji officials claim has broken the terms of his work permit.

Tonga: On 2 May 2008, ‘Commonwealth Secretariat’ reported that Tonga’s Prime Minister has met with Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London to discuss developments in the Kingdom of Tonga, including the recent elections, and the proposed constitutional reform. They also discussed regional issues, including developments in the Fiji Islands, which are on the agenda of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group meeting in London on 12 May. http://www.pacificmagazine.net/news/2008/05/02/sevele-meets-commonwealth-boss Uganda- On 30 April 2008, ‘The Monitor’ reported that the chief prosecutor for the International Criminal Court had said that if Joseph Kony were to be arrested, there would be peace tomorrow. He renewed his call for the arrest of fugitives from Uganda and Sudan wanted for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Nigeria: On 1 May 2008, ‘Vanguard’ reported that the Federal Ministry of Women’s Affairs will carry out advocacy and sensitization visits to the various states in the country, in order to educate Government Officials, Legislators, and Religious Leaders in the States on the Provisions of the Child Rights on rape. It will also stress the need not only to pass the Act into law, but also to ensure that the provisions are fully implemented.

India: On 30 April 2008, ‘The International Herald Tribune’ reported that the security forces in Indian Kashmir shot dead a senior leader of a Pakistan-based militant group. Police identified the dead militant as Sajad Afghani, a Pakistani national and "chief operations commander" of the Harkat-ul Mujahideen militant group. The group has been fighting against Indian troops for more than a decade in the Himalayan region.

Australia: On 30 April 2008, ‘The Australian’ reported that the Rudd Government will remove legal discrimination against gays and lesbians. Legislation would be introduced to modify 100 federal laws that discriminate against homosexual couples, but many of the reforms will not be implemented until 2009. The Law Council of Australia applauded the move but said this would not be complete until the Commonwealth Marriage Act was amended to remove legal restrictions preventing the marriage of same sex couples.

Samoa: On 30 April 2008, ‘Radio New Zealand International’ reported that Samoan non-governmental organizations want a referendum over the government’s land reform bill. This Registration Land Bill 2007 is expected to be passed through its final reading in parliament next month. But an NGO says Samoans will lose their traditional right to customary land if the bill goes through.

Kenya: On 29 April 2008, ‘The East African Standard’ reported that the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights wants the United Nations to conduct the June by-elections. "The fact that there is an inquiry into the conduct of the Electoral Commission of Kenya is enough to ask for international assistance," the commission's chairman said.

Mozambique: On 29 April 2008, ‘BBC News’ reported that the human rights group Amnesty International has published a report accusing the Mozambique police of killing and torturing people with near total impunity. They said they appear to think they have a licence to kill. http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/pr/fr/-/2/hi/africa/7372433.stm

Uganda: On 29 April 2008, ‘Reporters sans Frontières’ firmly condemned raids by military intelligence on the headquarters of the private newspaper The Independent, on the home of its publisher in Kampala, and the arrests of the publisher and two of his journalists for possession of "seditious materials". The "seditious material" sought by the military consisted of transcripts and recordings of interviews with people who had been tortured while held at government detention centres.

Uganda: On 29 April 2008, ‘The Monitor’ reported that the Amnesty Commission is in the final stages of opening up a resettlement centre for rebels of the LRA to help accommodate them after signing the peace agreement before finally reintegrating them into the community. The centre would also serve as the first transit location to rehabilitate the combatants before reuniting them with their relatives.

Bangladesh: On 28 April 2008, ‘The International Herald Tribune’ reported that the Bangladesh Awami League submitted a petition signed by 2.5 million people to the office of the head of the interim government seeking the release of detained former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. She has been detained since her arrest in July 2007 on alleged charges of corruption, which she denied, saying they were false and politically motivated, and designed to destroy her political career. The Awami League accuses the government of seeking to bar the former Prime Minister from elections due to be held by the end of the year.

South Africa: On 28 April 2008, ‘The Australian’ reported that Archbishop Desmond Tutu has urged world leaders to stay away from the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics in August. South Africa's Nobel Peace laureate lit a "Tibetan" Olympic torch, which was kindled in Delhi on January 30 and will travel to cities on five continents before arriving in May back in Dharamsala, India, where Tibet's parliament-in-exile is based.

Sri Lanka: On 28 April 2008, ‘ABC News’ reported that Sri Lanka hailed Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's visit as an important step in the relations between the two nations. But the trip also highlights Sri Lanka's turn from the West, which has expressed increasing concerns about Colombo's human rights record and its embrace of donors less critical of its escalating war against ethnic Tamil rebels.

Nauru: On 28 April 2008, ‘Pacific Magazine’ reported that the Nauruan government of President Marcus Stephen has claimed victory in the April 26 election, with at least 10 members in the 18-seat parliament. The election was called the by current President, Marcus Stephen, on last Friday in order to end the parliamentary deadlock. The vote was monitored by two international observers. The mission’s mandate is to observe the election and the formation of government. The mission arrived on Nauru on 25 April and will remain until 2 May.

Tonga: On 28 April 2008, ‘Pacific Magazine’ reported that Pro-democracy candidates won six out of nine parliamentary seats on offer in Thursday's election. Pro-democracy leader Akilisi Pohiva said that this election had handed pro-democracy MPs a mandate to press ahead with political reforms, which are expected to be in place before the next election.

Kenya: On 28 April 2008, ‘The East African Standard’ reported that a new Bill has been published in order to incorporate international crimes that are prescribed in the Rome Statute into law. They include genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. Kenya ratified the Rome Statute in March 2005. If the law is passed, the authorities would investigate and prosecute crimes committed in Kenya, or overseas by a Kenyan or committed anywhere against a Kenyan.

Nigeria: On 27 April 2008, ‘Vanguard’ reported that a human rights organisation, Prisoners Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA) has raised alarm over the tendency of police officers to send innocent people to jail on the grounds that they were “lunatics”. The group said that rather than refer suspected mentally challenged people to psychiatric hospitals, some police officers send them to prison as civil lunatics in a bid to circumvent the normal process of trial of accused persons.

Tanzania: On 26 April 2008, ‘The Citizen’ reported that five human rights organizations have filed a petition in the High Court challenging some provisions of the Public Leadership Code of Ethics Act, which they have described as "unconstitutional", calling for them to be declared null and void. The regulations contain provisions that grossly infringe the right to freedom of expression by unnecessarily restricting access to information on assets, interests and/or liabilities of public leaders.

Fiji: On 24 April 2008, ‘Pacific Magazine’ reported that the Working Group on the Situation in Fiji said that a “detailed timetable for election preparations had still not been finalized.” Moreover, it noted that the appointee for the Supervisor of Elections position had withdrawn. It urged the Constitutional Offices Commission to make a new appointment as soon as possible. The Working Group discussed the standing issues of: the restoration of civilian rule, upholding the 1997 Constitution, the cessation of human rights abuses and addressing allegations of abuse, and support for a credible and independent anti-corruption commission.

Kenya: On 24 April 2008, ‘The East African Standard‘ reported that the Kenya National Dialogue and Reconciliation Committee talks resume with the priority being the composition of members of the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC). The TJRC will comprise seven commissioners and gender balance should be taken into account. Three of the members shall be internationally renowned and of moral integrity. The commission will inquire into human rights violations, economic crimes such as grand corruption, historical land injustices and illegal and irregular acquisition of land.

Kenya: On 24 April 2008, ‘BBC News’ reported that the Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki has called for reconciliation. Mr Kibaki and Mr Odinga recently formed a power-sharing government, ending months of political deadlock that followed the disputed vote. However, local people feel the resettlement of displaced people should not be hurried.

Cameroon: On 23 April 2008, ‘Media Foundation for West Africa’ reported that two renowned musicians have been arrested and detained by the authorities for singing songs in which they criticized the recent controversial constitutional amendment, that allows the President unlimited terms of office. The Constitutional Amendment Bill was adopted by the National Assembly in Cameroon on April 10, 2008. The amendment allows an unlimited number of presidential mandates. The amendment also grants immunity to the President for any acts committed by him during his time in office.

Fiji On 23 April 2008, ‘Radio New Zealand International’ reported that Fiji’s deposed Prime Minister, Laisenia Qarase, and his SDL party, are considering supporting changes to the Constitution wanted by the interim regime. However, he will back the changes under two conditions: if the interim government agrees to recall the Members of Parliament he ousted in the 2006 coup and if the changes are approved by Parliament. Among other things, the interim Government wants to change Fiji’s voting system ahead of next year’s election among other things.

Uganda: On 22 April 2008, ‘The Monitor‘ reported that former captives of the Lords Resistance Army have said the rebels are increasing their numbers. The LRA has kidnapped over 500 youths in the last three months, who are currently being subjected to military training. Following the abductions, the International Criminal Court has expressed concern and called for their release.

Pakistan: On 21 April 2008, ‘BBC News’ reported that Maulana Sufi Mohammad, a leading Pakistani militant, was released following a six-point peace agreement signed between eight leaders of his TNSM movement and the provincial government of North West Frontier Province (NWFP). The deal calls for an end to militancy, an exchange of prisoners, and an army withdrawal from the area. The new government in Pakistan has said it is ready to negotiate with any militants who are prepared for reconciliation.

After this release, a top Taleban commander in Pakistan has ordered his followers to stop all attacks in the country. A ban was imposed on provocative activities. The Taleban had lately been in touch with the new government in connection with a possible new peace deal. American and UK officials cautiously support the new government's efforts to reach peace through talks. However, the White House expressed "concern" about the 15-point accord the Government has said it signed with Mehsud.

Mozambique: On 20 April 2008, ‘Agencia de Informacao de Mocambique‘reported that Mozambique's National Union of Journalists (SNJ) has denounced as a flagrant violation of the country's press law, an attempt by members of the ruling Frelimo Party to prevent a reporter from a community radio station to cover a public meeting. Two officials, supposedly members of the local Frelimo district committee, confiscated his reporting equipment.

Malaysia: On 18 April 2008, ‘the Australian’ reported that supporters of the Falungong spiritual group protested on China's human rights record outside its embassy in Kuala Lumpur.

On 21 April, Malaysian police will deploy 600 officers along the 16.5-kilometre torch route.

Grenada: On 18 April 2008, ‘Caribbean Net News’ reported that two freelance journalists have been accused of working with the opposition in Grenada. According to reports, they were characterised in cartoon style leaflets, along with three leaders of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), in a manner that appears to be supportive of the opposition.

One of the journalists has filed a legal complaint with the court against the authors, who are anonymous. Reporters Without Borders has appealed to the Prime Minister to make every effort to guarantee press freedom and ensure that there are no more attempts to intimidate journalists.

Fiji: On 18 April 2008, ‘Fijitimes’ reported that the Constituency Boundaries Commission will review electoral boundaries in the country. After the review the Commission will publish a list of provisional electoral boundaries for the next election, after this, before finalising the list it has to allow the public 60 days for comments, as per requirement of the Electoral Act.

Nauru: On 18 April 2008, ‘Pacific Magazine’ reported that the President of Nauru, Marcus Stephen has declared a state of emergency with the intention of dissolving the parliament and calling snap elections on 26th April. According to reports, President Marcus Stephen made the decision to end months of political deadlock, after that the opposition led by former foreign minister David Adeang, attempted to remove him in a vote of no confidence.

The President says the relatively short lead up to fresh elections was necessary to return political stability to the country as soon as possible, to allow the passage of essential budgetary bills to pass through parliament and restore investment confidence.

India: On 17 April 2008, ‘BBC News’ reported that heavy security has been deployed for the Olympic torch in Delhi to protect it from protests. Some 16,000 police personnel were station for this purpose.

According to reports, an alternative torch relay was organised and led by hundreds of Tibetan exiles in Delhi. There were also pro-Tibet protests in Mumbai, where at least 55 people were detained by police; in the Indian Himalayan region of Ladakh, which borders Tibet, at least 5,000 Tibetan exiles and local Buddhists participated in a march in the town of Leh. In Nepal, more than 500 members of the Tibetan exile community were arrested in the capital, Kathmandu, during demonstrations near Chinese diplomatic buildings.

Pakistan: On 17 April 2008, ‘Reuters’ reported that the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG), which deals with violations of the organisation's rules on democracy, will meet in London on May 12 to review Pakistan's suspension. The group suspended Pakistan last November after President Musharraf failed to give a deadline to end emergency rule and resign as army chief. Pakistan has now a democratically elected government and Musharraf has stepped down as army chief.

CMAG, made up of foreign ministers from nine Commonwealth countries, will also consider political developments in Fiji, which was suspended in December 2006 following a military coup.

Pakistan: On 17 April 2008, ‘BBC News’ reported that the UN refugee agency (UNHCR) has warned Pakistan to revise its refugee plan to repatriate 2.4 million Afghan refugees by the end of 2009. According to reports a UNHCR assistant representative in Pakistan stated that the plan was unworkable and could backfire.

Cameroon: On 17 April 2008, ‘The Post’ reported that the government of Cameroon came close to declaring a state of emergency on 10 April, as troops were deployed in major towns of the country to avoid any uprising against the amendment of the 1996 Constitution.

The Constitution was modified to give President Paul Biya another chance to stand as candidate during the presidential elections of October 2011.

The amendment however, its reported came against the popular opinion which held that the President has already served for a very long time and should end his tenure in 2011. Prior to its modification, the constitutional amendment proposal became the most unpopular topic in public debate.

Uganda: On 17 April 2008, ‘The Weekly Observer’ reported that the cessation of hostilities Agreement between the government and the Lords Resistance Army expired on 15 April. The Ugandan chief government negotiator remains hopeful that peace talks with the Lord's Resistance Army can succeed. A deadlock has been caused in negotiations due to Kony’s indictment by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Kony and his co-accused are still wanted by the ICC.

Kenya: On 17 April 2008, ‘The East African Standard’ reported that civil society groups have asked the Speaker of the National Assembly to reject the Truth, Justice and Reconciliation Bill. The rights' groups reportedly said that the bill has a lot of loopholes that need to be amended before the Parliament starts debating on it. Moreover, according to reports, they stated that the commission will not be independent because it will be under the Justice and Constitutional Affairs ministry.

In the proposed Bill, the Truth Justice and Reconciliation Commission would only deal with injustices committed between1963 and this year, but the rights groups want an opportunity to address justice issues since pre-independence times.

Sierra Leone: On 16 April 2008, ‘Concord Times’ reported that Sierra Leone is ranked as the place with most number of child labourers. According to a recently released report by UNICEF on child labour and school attendance, 78% of children between the ages of 7 and 14 in Sierra Leone are engaged in child labour.

Nigeria: On 16 April 2008, ‘Reporters Without Borders’ reported that four US filmmakers and a Nigerian colleague have been arrested in the Niger Delta on 12 April while making a documentary about the region's petroleum industry. "Their papers were all in order and their presence was known to the authorities. It is shocking to have to remind the government that journalism is not an illegal activity in Nigeria and should, on the contrary, be an inalienable right," Reporters Without Borders said. http://allafrica.com/stories/200804160683.html

South Africa: On 15 April 2008, Human Rights Watch reported that South Africa's human rights record has been scrutinized by the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva at the first Universal Periodic Review Session. According to reports a part of the review focused on abuses around HIV infections, sexual violence, and asylum procedures.

Under the review process, governments submit a written report and are expected to consult with all stakeholders while preparing such a report. South Africa however, did not submit its report until the eve of the session, and did not consult South African and international NGO, these groups were only able to present written concerns about a wide range of human rights issues to the council.

Kenya: On 13 April 2008, ‘BBC News’ reported that a government has now been formed four months after the much disputed elections. Odinga, was appointed Prime Minister of a coalition government which includes 42 members, including 7 women.

Mr Odinga’s Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) is the largest party in parliament.

Cameroon: On 11 April, the deputies of Cameroon’s Parliament have endorsed an amendment to article 6 of the Cameroonian Constitution. Prior to amendment Article 6 stated: “President of the Republic is elected for a seven years mandate, renewable once”. Last week’s amendment however, allows the President to be reelected indefinitely.

Fiji: On 10 April, ‘Radio New Zealand International’ reported that “Fiji police arrested women protesting peacefully over Tibet outside Chinese embassy. Police in Fiji have arrested 17 people protesting in support of Tibet outside the Chinese embassy in Suva. Those taken in by police include a human rights commissioner, an academic, and a woman from the Fiji Women’s Crisis Centre, and a number of other well known activists in Fiji.”

Fiji: On 10 April, ‘Radio New Zealand International’ reported that a case has been filed by the ousted Prime Minister, Laisenia Qarase, who claims that the interim government led by the military commander, Commodore Frank Bainimarama, is illegal. A Fiji NGO said that the interim regime will not recall the parliament, even if a court ruling finds it is illegal.

South Africa: On 10 April, ‘The Australian’ reported that Deputy Safety and Security Minister Susan Shabangu gave to the police a 'shoot to kill' order. According to reports she said that “South African police must shoot to kill and ignore regulations in the battle against one of the worst rates of violent crime in the world”.

Uganda: On 10 April, BBC News reported that Rebels from Uganda's Lord's Resistance Army were expected to sign a final peace agreement to end more than 20 years of conflict with the Ugandan government. LRA leader Joseph Kony was expected to attend the signing at a camp in southern Sudan, but he did not appear, because of the threat of war crimes charges.

UK: On 10 April, ‘ABC News’ reported that Britain's Prime Minister Gordon Brown decided to miss opening the ceremony at the summer Olympics in Beijing. He became the second major world leader after German Chancellor Angela Merkel to decide to stay away from the opening ceremonies.

Gambia: On 8 and 9 April, “Media Foundation for West Africa” reported that three journalists of a Banjul based newspaper, were banned from covering Court proceedings. Two journalists were banned from the Brikama Magistrates Court; the third from the Kombo Central District Tribunal in the Western Region of The Gambia, and was warned to stop covering its proceedings or risk going to jail.

Ghana: The “UN Integrated Regional Information Networks” reported that the high court of Accra on 8 April ordered the government to postpone a planned deportation of 22 Liberians claiming to be refugees, just hours before they were due to leave the country, in contravention of a previous government promise not to deport any more refugees.

Minister Boahen said that the 22 Liberians set to be deported on 8 April were illegal immigrants not refugees. But a coalition of Ghanaian human rights organisations made up of the Legal Resources Centre and the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative said they have evidence to prove otherwise. The two human rights groups have already filed an affidavit in support of the suit at the high court on behalf of one of the detainees, who the coalition says was a registered refugee with UNHCR in Accra.

Kenya: On 7 April, ‘The Nation’ reported that human rights activists were on the run following reports that the military was looking for them for exposing torture cases in Mount Elgon. The director of Western Human Rights Watch, Mr Job Bwonya, confirmed that he was being hunted by the military for accusing them of torturing Sabaot Land Defence Force suspects.

South Africa: On 7 April, ‘Business Day’ reported that South African employers have the same duty of care to illegal foreign employees as they do to South African citizens, according to a precedent-setting Labour Court judgment, which ruled that illegal immigrants have the same labour rights as other workers.

Zambia: On 7 April, ‘Times of Zambia’ reported that the 2007 Human Rights Commission of Zambia (HRC) report has observed that the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) recorded an increased number of convictions involving corruption cases. The report said in 2007 the ACC recorded 20 convictions as opposed to 10 convictions in 2006, showing a significant improvement.

It said the ACC had established and operationalised integrity committees in eight institutions as a means of internalising corruption prevention and reporting in the public sector.

The HRC also observed that international treaties, ratified by Zambia, had not been integrated into national laws and Zambians had limited knowledge of their rights and how to enforce them.

Uganda: On 6 April, ‘The Nation’ reported that Amnesty International has demanded that the Uganda government comply with international law and let rebel leader John Kony face charges of crimes against humanity. Amnesty International accuses the government of not showing any commitment to allowing Mr Kony, two other rebel suspects and state officials to face the charges at the International Criminal Court in The Hague. The three have been charged with committing crimes against humanity and other war crimes in northern Uganda.

India: On 18 March “BBC News” reported that China appreciated India’s handling of protesting Tibetan refugees in India, namely detaining them for two weeks. Indian Foreign Minister Mukherjee expressed his hope for peaceful and dialogical solutions in the Tibet crisis.

Kenya: On 18 March “The Nation” from Nairobi reported that a recently published Human Rights Watch report on the post election violence in Kenya found that much of the violence was planned. Based on interviews of those involved, the report mentions that local elders played a large role in igniting the violence. The winning of rival Kikuyu in the elections would be the sign of war. Reportedly, the violence was seen as fulfilling demands such as land redistribution, that otherwise would have been fulfilled through the ballot.

On 19 March “The Nation” reported that those suspected of robbing and murdering MP Were, on 29 December in Nairobi, accused the police of torture in order to extract a confession. While the court dismissed allegations of torture by the police and refused to admit alleged evidence of the torture to the trial, the five suspects will undergo medical examinations as ordered by the court. The accused also face a series of other charges. No further investigation into the torture charges has been reported.

Sri Lanka: On 18 March “BBC News” reported that following a visit by representatives of the European Union, a statement expressed the EU’s criticism of the Sri Lankan government and rebel LTTE’s human rights record. The statement lamented the rise in abductions, extrajudicial killings and disappearances since the resumed hostilities in 2005.

On 19 March “BBC News” reported that in an unusual public statement, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has accused the Sri Lankan government for misrepresenting confidential information, indicating a slide in human rights violations such as extrajudicial killings and abductions. The government came recently under increasing pressure for its abysmal human rights record and allegedly used ICRC information to shed off such criticism. Meanwhile, the EU says it is reconsidering trade concessions to Sri Lanka, which have boosted the island’s garment industry.

Zimbabwe: On 18 March “BuaNews” from Tshwane reported that only a few media oulets will be granted permission to cover the upcoming elections in Zimbabwe. Reprotedly, the Zimbabwean ambassador to South Africa denied any allegations of voter intimidation and expressed the determination of the government not to repeat Kenyan-style post election violence. He announced that Zimbabwean voters outside the country will not be allowed to cast their vote, for logistical reasons.

On 19 March “The Nation” from Nairobi reported that South Africa and Botswana had dropped their silent diplomacy approach about the Zimbabwean elections. After threads by Zimbabwean generals not to tolerate a change in government, both countries demanded restrain from the security forces and respect for the electoral outcome. South African leaders have reportedly come under intense criticism for failing to keep a distance from Zimbabwean President Mugabe.

On 19 March “SW Radio London” reported that Human Rights Watch issued a report detailing a flawed pre-election process in the run-up to Zimbabwe’s general election later this month. The report lists voter intimidation, manipulation, an unprepared and under-resourced Election Commission and violence against opposition members. The South African delegation to the Southern African Development Community election observatory mission was briefed with the findings. The Zimbabwean government rejected such allegations as what the West wanted to hear. In the government’s view, the Election Commission is well resourced and has prepared the election process to the government’s satisfaction.

Bangladesh: On 17 March “The Daily Star” form Bangladesh reported that 54 members of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) have undergone human rights training, conducted by British police. The RAB officers were instructed on the rights of citizens and suspected criminals and on evidence based interrogation practices. The paramilitary RAB has been accused of severe human rights violations in Bangladesh.

Zimbabwe: On 14 March “BBC News” reported that the Zimbabwean Police Chief has stated that he would not allow the opposition to take power in the elections later this month. Mr. Chihuri is the third senior security official to publicly throw his weight behind Mr Mugabe. The government denounced the opposition as Western “puppets” that aim at reversing the controversial land reforms. The opposition has reportedly complained about unequal access to the media and demanded more polling stations to be set up in the cities. Urban areas are seen as opposition strongholds and reportedly have proportionally fewer polling stations compared to regions seen as Mr. Mugabe’s strongholds.

On 14 March the “Catholic Information Service for Africa” reported that a network of Catholic development organisations fear post-election violence following the elections in Zimbabwe. Reportedly, the government is seen as illegitimate and will cling to power, which would increase tensions in the country. The report states that if this happens, as in Kenya international pressure should be applied rigorously on Zimbabwe’s leadership.

On 14 March “SW Radio Africa” from London reported that the International Bar Association has condemned the Zimbabwean government for alleging that the Law Society of Zimbabwe is being used as an instrument by Europe for election monitoring. EU member states have not been permitted to monitor the upcoming elections. Minister of Justice Patrick Chinamasa alleged that the Law Society was involved actively in politics and would have to be considered by the government as belonging to the political opposition. He is further reported to have added that this undermines its independence and mandate for the protection of the rule of law in Zimbabwe.

The Gambia: On 14 March “Media Foundation for West Africa” reported that for the past two weeks, the webpage of the Gambian online Freedom Newspaper, based in the US, has been unavailable in the country. Freedom Newspaper has been reportedly critical of the government of President Jammeh. Following a story on the financial situation of Gambian telecommunication provider GAMTEL, the newspaper’s IP address has reportedly been made unavailable inside the country. Earlier in 2006, the online newspaper was attacked following criticism of the regime.

Pakistan: On 12 March “The Hindu” newspaper reported that in simultaneous suicide attacks in the city of Lahore, 24 persons have been killed and 170 wounded. The first attack was directed against the Punjab headquarter of the Federal Investigation Authority, destroying part of the building. The second blast occurred minutes later affecting an advertising agency in another part of the town. This comes as President Musharraf ended speculations and decided to convene the newly elected National Assembly on Monday, 17 March. The PPP and PML-N are expected to form the new government.

St Vincent: On 12 March “Caribbean Net News” reported that an application for judicial review of a case of alleged sexual assault and rape against Prime Minister Gonsalves has been dismissed. The lawyers of the plaintiff, a police officer who claims to have been raped by the PM when standing guard at his residence on 3 January, will appeal against the decision. The Director of Public Prosecutions reportedly took over investigation of the case and decided to discontinue it, in accordance with his constitutional powers.

Uganda: On 12 March “The Monitor” from Kampala reported that three judges of the International Criminal Court (ICC) have demanded information from the Ugandan government specifying the powers of the special tribunal of the Supreme Court, set up to try LRA rebel leader Joseph Kony and the charges investigated by the body. The ICC has maintained that it has a credible case against Mr. Kony, who has in turn insisted that the ICC should drop indictments against him.

Fiji/USA: On 11 March “Pacific Magazine” reported that the Executive Director of the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement, Mrs. Buadromo, was awarded the US Secretary of State International Women of Courage Award for 2008. It was noted that Mrs. Buadromo and her team continued to advocate for gender equality, legal and political reform and democracy, despite the efforts by the government to silence critical voices.

On 11 March “Radio New Zealand International” reported that one of Fiji’s Human Rights Commissioners backed the statement by the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination that Fiji’s Human Rights Commission (FHRC) was not fulfilling the Paris Principles that set the standard for the independence of National Human Rights Institutions. Commissioner Shamima Ali it is reported works outside the Commission because of its lacking independence. The Commission’s head, Dr. Shameem dismissed the report and accused the UN committee of exceeding its jurisdiction.

Fiji: On 11 March the news service “Fijivillage” reported that an inquiry into the tax declarations of Interim Finance Minister Mahendra Chaudhry has cleared him of all charges. Media reports alleged that the Minister had evaded taxes. Interim Attorney General Sayed-Khaiyum stated that Interim Prime Minister Commodore Brinimarama was satisfied with the findings of the three member inquiry committee.

On 14 March “Fiji Live” reported that the family of Russell Hunter, detained Fiji Sun publisher, flew to Australia, after being given an ultimatum to leave the country. Mr. Hunter was officially reported to have been deported on 26 February due to a breach of working visa regulations. However, it is widely believed that the deportation came after Fiji Sun published a series of articles about alleged tax irregularities of interim Finance Minister, Mahendra Chaudhry.

Kenya On 11 March “BBC News” reported that the Kenyan army launched an intense military operation against a milita operating in southern Kenya. The military reportedly used heavy artillery and helicopter gunships in the confrontation with the Sabaot Land Defence Forces that are alleged to have killed up to 500 people in the last two years. Reportedly, the fighting came about due to land disputes between rival ethnic groups.

On 11 March “Voice of America” reported that there are increasingly calls for investigations into police brutality and extrajudicial killings in the post-election violence in Kenya. Over 1000 persons are estimated to have been killed while over 600 000 were reported to have been displaced. Post mortems of persons killed revealed that many carried gunshot injuries, pointing to the involvement of security forces. Reportedly, the number of gunshot deaths was proportionally higher in regions supporting the opposition and lower in ruling party strongholds. According to reports, in the opposition stronghold Kisumu, many of those who died due to gunshots were shot from behind. There are reports of ethnic militias being armed and trained, posing a great challenge to the newly formed government.

India: On 10 March “BBC News” reported that the Indian Police barred Tibetan refugees in India from beginning a march towards China, in protest of the human rights situation in Tibet. The protesters say that the Olympic Games in Beijing should be used to highlight human rights abuses in the country. Reportedly, the Indian government gave orders to stop the march that was supposed to arrive in Tibet in half a year’s time.

Sri Lanka: On 11 March “BBC News” reported that a breakaway faction from the LTTE, the government aligned TMVP won local elections held in war torn Eastern Sri Lanka, reportedly held in a climate of violence and chaos. The group is accused by human rights groups to having used violence to keep serious competitors away. It has also been pointed out that the group had not been disarmed prior to the election. The TMVP, or Karuna faction, is accused of grave human rights violations, including endemic abductions and extortions.

On 12 March “Reporters Without Borders” (RWB) reported that five Tamil reporters have been arrested in the Sri Lankan capital Colombo by the anti-terrorism police in the past six days. According to reports, the government falsely accused them of receiving funds from the rebel LTTE, while RWB could confirm that the funds in question came from a German foundation and exile Tamils for charitable purposes. RWB also stated that some of the detained were beaten by the police, apparently in order to extract confessions.

Commonwealth: Every second Monday of March, the Commonwealth celebrates the Commonwealth Day. The Commonwealth Day is an important opportunity to remember the founding principles of the organisation including those laid down in the Singapore and Harare Declarations which lay down the fundamental political vales of the organisation-including democracy and human rights. Despite these commitments several crucial governance and human rights issues still remain unaddressed in a majority of Commonwealth countries.

Pakistan: On 9 March “BBC News” reported that the Pakistan People’s Party and the PML-N agreed to the formation of a coalition government. The parties supporting President Musharraf endured heavy losses in the recent elections. Despite objections by the President, the two parties have stated that they will reinstall judges- including the Chief Justice-who were sacked by President Musharraf under emergency provisions. It remains unclear if the coalition parties seek further support in parliament to impeach President Musharraf.

Nigeria On 7 March “BBC News” reported that the Nigeria’s anti-corruption agency is appealing against a court ruling that decided that the former governor of the oil rich Rivers state, Mr. Odili, enjoys immunity from prosecution, even after stepping down from his post. The agency also launched a new corruption investigation into Mr Odili. Despite its oil wealth, the Rivers state remains impoverished and few development initiatives have been taken.

On 9 March “BBC News” reported that Nigeria’s governing party PDP elected a new leader. Former General Secretary Ogbulafor won the contest against a candidate put up by former President Obasanjo.

Fiji: On 06 March “Radio New Zealand” reported that the Fiji Supreme Court is hearing a case about the legality of the toppling of the former Qarase government. However the court’s authority to review President’s actions remains disputed. The case will continue on Tuesday, 11 March 2008.

On 10 March “The Fiji Times” reported that the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is calling for an independent National Human Rights Commission in Fiji. The Committee expressed its concern about the independence of the existing Fiji Human Rights Commission and declared that it might not fully comply with the Paris Principle relating to National Human Rights Institutions.

Sri Lanka: On 6 March “BBC News” reported that a Tamil MP (Member of Parliament) and his driver were killed in the north of Sri Lanka, when a road side bomb went off near their car. Rebel Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and the government accuse each other for the attack. According to reports Mr. Sivanesan is the third MP of the rebel backed Tamil National Alliance Party to be killed since the violence between the LTTE and the government escalated again in 2006.

Zimbabwe: On 6 March the “UN Integrated Regional Information Networks” (IRIN) reported that both the factions of the divided Zimbabwean opposition have lodged complains with the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission citing police harassment faced by their respective election candidates and campaigners. Reportedly, the police arrested or beat up opposition members. It is also being accused of being partial and is alleged to be favouring the governing party’s campaign. Furthermore the opposition parties have accused the state broadcaster, Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation of denying airtime to their candidates.

On 7 March “BBC News” reported that the government banned Western election observers form monitoring elections on 29 March 2008. However, allied countries such as China, Iran and Venezuela have been invited to send observers. The Southern African Development Community will also monitor the proceedings.

Australia/ Fiji: On 05 March “The Australian” newspaper reported that Australia is concerned about Fiji’s slow progress towards democracy and considers further sanctions against the country. The matter is likely to be discussed in the Pacific Island Forum foreign ministers meeting later in March. Additional sanctions could include a sports boycott, affecting the Pacific Nations Cup. However, as “Radio Australia” later reported, the government might refrain from expanding its sanctions beyond the existing travel bans.

Cameroon: On 4 March “AllAfrica” news service reported that press freedom organization, Reporters Without Borders criticised the government for its clampdown on the free press in Cameroon. A newspaper editor was reportedly arrested and is held in an unknown location and incidents of physical harassment against journalists covering demonstrations have also been reported. At the end of February, the government ordered the temporary closure of a number of radio and TV stations.

On 8 March “The Nation” from Kenya reported that human rights groups expressed concerns about media workers and demonstrators recently arrested by the government of Cameroon. Reportedly, due process for the arrested has not been respected. The number of dead from last week’s riots remains unclear. While the government stated that around 24 persons were killed, civil society organisations predict the number to be in the hundreds.

India: On 4 March “Express India” news service reported that the number of complains filed to the Gujarat state Human Rights Commission, recorded a fivefold increase to about 1000 in 2007. The Home department reported that over 600 of them were resolved. The Human Rights Commission was set up in 2006 after much pressure, including from the National Human Rights Commission and the Central Government.

On 5 March “BBC news” reported that India is intensifying its charm offensive to improve the ties with the military junta in Burma with a spat of inter-state visits. This move comes after the junta violently suppressed Buddhist monk protests for democracy in the country last year. It has been alleged that India and China are competing for influence and natural resources in the otherwise almost isolated country known for human rights abuses.

South Africa: On 4 March “Pretoria News” reported that the International Federation of Human Rights (FIDH) has stated that the government’s migration policy violates human rights. According to reports the government also came under further criticisms for not ratifying major international human rights conventions, such as the convention on the rights of migrants. Following a fact finding mission to South Africa in 2007, FIDH published the report recently, based on interviews with migrants, human rights lawyers and administrative officials. It found that the authorities do not completely distinguish between different types of migrants and reported the occurrence of serious human rights violations in migrant detention centres.

Australia: On 4 March “ABC News” reported that the Legislative Assembly is debating a human rights bill that would allow individuals to take action in the Supreme Court of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) up to a year after filing the first complaint. It is being hoped that the bill will further improve the human rights situation in the ACT.

Papua New Guinea (PNG): On 1 March “Pacific Magazine” reported that the Asian Centre for Human Rights (ACHR) published a report concerning high levels of police brutality and impunity in the country. The report comes at a time when the Australian Prime Minister Rudd is preparing to visit PNG next month. The Australian Aid Agency AusAID, it is reported, is one of the largest donors in PNG. Reports indicate that the agency has been criticised for not using its leverage to push for issues concerning the rule of law in PNG.

Zimbabwe: On 29 February the news service “All Africa” reported that the International Bar Association (IBA) has expressed concern about the Zimbabwean Police Commissioner Augustine Chihuri’s remarks that the police would use force (including the use of firearms) to suppress any politically motivated violence in the presidential election on 29 March. The Association according to reports has requested the Police Commissioner to reassure Zimbabweans that they can cast their vote without fearing violence. The IBA, it has been further indicated, supports the Election Commission’s suggestion to set up multi-party commissions to deal with any sort of violence.

On 1 March “BBC News” reported that Simba Makoni, former Finance Minister under Mugabe and presidential candidate received crucial support for his campaign from another governing party heavyweight, former Interior Minister Dumiso Dabengwa. According to reports, Mr Mugabe, having stated that he is certain of winning the 29 March elections, described the rival governing party candidates as “traitors and two-headed creatures”.

Cameroon: On 28 February “BBC News” reported that clashes with the police in the capital Yaoundé and other parts of the country, killed seven persons. The protests reportedly came over rising fuel prices combined with discontent over the President’s plans to seek constitutional amendments to extend his 25 years in power and run again in 2011.

Fiji: On 28 February “The Pacific Magazine” news service reported that the Fiji government is reviving the National Security Council and the Fiji Intelligence Service. The Council was first established in 1990 but abandoned in 1999. The Minister of Defence, it is reported, pointed to the increased global terrorist threats since 9/11 and argued that Fiji is at higher risk of being affected by terrorism.

On 2 March “Radio New Zealand” reported that Fiji based Pacific Centre for Public Integrity has asked the Fijian President Ratu Josefa Iloilo to dismiss Fiji Human Rights Commission director Shaista Shameem. The controversy, it is indicated, developed over a report prepared for the Fiji Human Rights Commission by a Hawaiian academic on the independence of the media in Fiji. The report, according to Radio New Zealand, suggested restricting the renewal of visa to foreign workers in the Fijian media besides suggesting the presence of racism among the white media in Fiji. The report it has been indicated received strong criticism from the Fijian media.

Jamaica: On 27 February “Caribbean Net News” reported that the Press Association of Jamaica welcomed the government’s initiative to reform the country’s colonial libel laws. The current laws, it is reported, discourage investigative journalism. It has been indicated that reform would strengthen the media’s role of checking the government and administrative services.

Ghana: On 25 February “The Statesman” reported that the Ghanaian Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice described the human rights situation in northern Ghana as “gloomy”. It is reported that despite the Commission’s interventions, children and women are particularly exposed to violations of their rights. Forced marriages or suspicion of witchcraft in Northern Ghana, it is indicated, are examples of such violations. According to reports other issues in Northern Ghana include the situation of remand prisoners and the poor condition of state services such as health care.

Kenya: On 25 February “BBC News” reported that Kofi Annan, who is heading international mediation efforts in Kenya for the past one month urged the government and the opposition to move the talks forward. While agreeing in principle on