Military Tribunal described as 'rigged' by former prosecutor

Australian Lawyers for Human Rights strongly expressed its continuing concern regarding the alleged compromised nature of the military commission designated to try David Hicks as revealed in the leaked emails of former military prosecutors.

 “As shocking as these revelations are, they merely echo the objections and concerns of Australian Lawyers for Human Rights, the Law Council of Australia and worldwide human rights community,” said Irene Baghoomians, a spokesperson for Australian Lawyers for Human Rights.

The Independent Legal Observer for the Law Council of Australia, Lex Lasry QC, in his latest report dated July 2005, has outlined many of the concerns prejudicial to a fair trial.  These include:

• lack of independence of the military commission,
• real or perceived partiality of the Presiding Officer,
• ad hoc nature of the procedures; and
• no viable appellate process.

Australian Lawyers for Human Rights strongly supports the findings of Lex Lasry QC and calls upon the Australian Government to ensure that David Hicks, an Australian citizen, receives a fair trial based on the principles of proper legal procedure guaranteed to any Australian charged with a criminal offence.

“This is all about the rule of law and the importance of ensuring that the rights of all Australian citizens even those who are unpopular are protected to the fullest possible extent of the law. 

“The rule of law should not be negotiable and at the mercy of Governments.”

3 August 2005

Contact Irene Baghoomians: 0431 633 011 or Simeon Beckett (President): 0412 008 039

back to top

This page last updated 4 August 2005