20 September 2004

Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader

Police error on Ahmed Zaoui shows need for immediate review

The Prime Minister revealed this morning on Breakfast TV that the police counter-intelligence unit wrongly labelled Ahmed Zaoui’s political party, the FIS, as terrorists. The Police action led to the FIS being added to a United Nations’ list of named terrorist organizations

"There must be an immediate and thorough review of how Mr Zaoui’s case is being ‘managed’ by agencies involved,” said Matt Robson.

“This erroneous information appeared in the Prime Minister’s new list of terrorists issued last Monday - when it was known that the Court of Appeal was about to pronounce on Ahmed Zaoui’s continuing detention in prison.

“An explanation is required why this ‘information’ was added to a United Nations list.

“This latest episode in the case of Ahmed Zaoui shows the need for Parliament to examine the handling of this case and the activities of agencies engaged in counter-terrorism.

“In law enforcement we can’t have our agencies playing fast and loose with the truth whether it involves Ahmed Zaoui or any other person. The rule of law is the greatest protection for each person in our society,” said the Progressive MP.

ENDS

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