Welcome for Supreme Court ruling but Public Rally in Support of Zaoui to Proceed!

Global Peace and Justice Auckland is organising a Public Rally outside Mt Eden Prison on Saturday 4th December at 12noon – the second anniversary of Ahmed Zaoui’s detention without trial.

The Supreme Court decision today to hear a bail application by lawyers on behalf of Zaoui is a step forward and emphasises the significance of this rally which occurs just a few days before the Supreme Court hearing.

The rally will give Aucklanders the opportunity to express their feelings at the 2 year detention without trial of a person who sought refuge from persecution in our country. It will call for his immediate release from Mt Eden Prison so that he start a new life as a genuine refugee in New Zealand along with his wife and family.

There is no precedent in this country for such a lengthy and inhumane detention without charge. As more and more people get to know Mr Zaoui's story there is outrage that a man of peace and a victim of persecution has been subjected to appalling treatment in New Zealand - including 10 months in solitary confinement. The Labour government stands condemned for betraying its own principles of fair play and support for human dignity.

Mount Eden Prison has become New Zealand’s own little slice of Guantanamo Bay – right in the heart of Auckland.

It’s time for this shame to end.

The rally will include speakers from the Churches, Trade Unions, Muslim community, Ahmed Zaoui’s lawyers and a message from the refugee himself. Top New Zealand musicians will also take part in a colourful “Happy Birthday” rendition to the Mt Eden based refugee.

Mike Treen – (09) 3616989 or 0212547440 John Minto – (09) 8463173 (Hm) or (09) 2745764 (Wk) Geraldene Peters - (09) 3765994

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