The Family and Supporters of Bashir Makhtal are very disappointed with the decision of the Ethiopian Court to convict Bashir and sentence him to life imprisonment. According to all independent observers trial procedure in Ethiopia are not fair and the judiciary is not independent. The US Department of State had this to say on the Ethiopian trial procedures:
“The law provides for an independent judiciary. Although the civil courts operated with independence, the criminal courts remained weak, overburdened, and subject to significant political intervention and influence.”
“According to the law, accused persons have the right to a fair public trial by a court of law within a "reasonable time," a presumption of innocence, the right to be represented by legal counsel of their choice, and the right to appeal. However, closed proceedings occurred, at times authorities allowed detainees little or no contact with legal counsel, and detainees usually were not presumed innocent.”
Given these concerns it is urgent that the Canadian Government take firm action to make it clear that Canada is very disappointed with the unjust treatment afforded by Ethiopia a Canadian citizen. As Canada has a very generous aid program with Ethiopia we expect that our government will be reviewing all its ongoing commitments to Ethiopia in light of the sentence imposed on Bashir. Family members of Bashir Makhtal have been in touch with senior members of the Canadian government and they have promised a quick response. We anticipate hearing more from the government over the next few days and once we have seen their response we will make a further statement.
For Further information please call Said Makhtal 905- 746-0974
