Front Line is deeply concerned following reports that the trial of Salijon Abdurahmanov commenced on 12 September 2008. Salijon Abdurahmanov was arrested on 7 June 2008, after drugs were planted in his car. He is a founding member and leading journalist with Uznews.net, a member of the Real Union of Journalists of Uzbekistan, and a member of the Committee to Protect Individuals' Rights in Karakalpakstan. He has also worked for Radio Liberty and the Institute for War and Peace Reporting, and has made public statements concerning human rights violations and restrictions on freedom of expression in Uzbekistan. His case was the subject of a Front Line urgent appeal on 20 June 2008.
Further Information
The trial of Salijon Abdurahmanov began on 12 September in Tahtakupir District court in Karakalpakstan. The hearing took place in a small room, which prevented people from attending the trial. Salijon Abdurahmanov is charged with “selling drugs in large consignment” under Article 25-273, (5) of the Uzbek Criminal Code. The police officers and sniffer-dog specialist who had searched his car were not present at the trial, which continues on 18 September.
Front Line reiterates its belief that the allegations made against Salijon Abdurahmanov are false and that the charges against him are fabricated. Prior to his arrest, Salijon Abdurahmanov had predicted that he would be detained for his human rights activities and had been warned against writing in case it resulted in his detention. In this regard, Front Line believes that the arrest and trial of Salijon Abdurahmanov are directly related to his activities in defence of human rights, particularly through his exercise of the right to freedom of expression. Front Line expresses its concern for the physical and psychological integrity of Salijon Abdurahmanov.
