UN Against Death Penalty, But For Justice

UN Against Death Penalty But Understands Desire For Justice In Hussein Case -- Envoy

Reacting to the imposition of the death sentence against Saddam Hussein, who ruled Iraq with terror for nearly a quarter of a century until his ouster in 2003, the senior United Nations envoy there voiced understanding about the desire for justice among many people but reiterated the world body's longstanding opposition to capital punishment.

"The United Nations stands firmly against impunity, and understands the desire for justice felt by the many Iraqis," Special Representative Ashraf Qazi said through a spokesman.

"Based on the principle of respect for the right to life, however, the United Nations remains opposed to capital punishment, even in the case of war crimes, crimes against humanity and genocide."

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