U.S. Concerned by Convictions of Swazi Human Rights Lawyer

U.S. Concerned by Convictions of Swazi Human Rights Lawyer and Journalist

July 21, 2014

Press Statement
Marie Harf
Deputy Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC

The United States is deeply concerned by the convictions of human rights lawyer Thulani Maseko and magazine editor Bheki Makhubu for contempt of court in the Kingdom of Swaziland. Their convictions for contempt of court for publishing an article critical of the High Court of Swaziland—and their ongoing prolonged detention—appear to undermine respect for Swaziland’s human rights obligations, particularly the right to freedom of expression, which is enshrined in Swaziland’s own constitution and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The United States strongly supports the universal fundamental freedom of expression and is deeply concerned by the actions of the Swazi Government.

ENDS

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