29 August 2007
Opposition activists, human rights defenders draw up charter for commission for exoneration of victims of politically motivated prosecution
Members of opposition parties, human rights activists and lawyers have drawn up a charter for a commission for the exoneration of victims of politically motivated prosecution, legal expert Ihar Rynkevich told BelaPAN.
The commission would be formed and controlled by the Political Council of United Pro-democratic Forces. It would be accountable to the Political Council when the latter were in session and to its board in the interim.
The Political Council's members on the commission would be able to vote, while activists of other pro-democratic organizations will only be allowed to give non-binding opinions.
The commission would coordinate the opposition coalition's efforts to defend the rights of persons victimized for their political beliefs.
Mr. Rynkevich also said that the commission would create a database of victims, with people who claim to be under pressure from authorities for their political views invited to fill out a form that should contain information about their affiliation with a political party or a non-governmental organization. Documents proving the claim, including police charge sheets, detention reports and court papers, should be attached to the form. "Apart from this, we have decided to respond to information concerning persecution on the part of the employer, that's why school expulsion and job dismissal orders also will be accepted," Mr. Rynkevich said. "Those who consider themselves to be subject to political persecution may send their applications to reabilitacia@gmail.com."
Papers submitted by political persecution victims would also reveal the names of those involved in exerting pressure on opposition activists, Mr. Rynkevich said.
Mr. Rynkevich noted that the plans would be considered at a meeting of the Political Council. "The commission will be composed of members of registered organizations, that's why it won't need registration," he said.
He added that the Belarusian Helsinki Committee would cooperate with the commission.
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