Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas

PA. MILITARY INTELLIGENCE OFFICER SENTENCED TO DEATH

April 6, 2008: the Palestinian High Military Court in Jenin sentenced Mr Tha'er Mahmoud Husni Rmailat to death by firing squad. Mr Rmailat, an officer of the Palestinian Military Intelligence, was convicted of the murder of a member of the Palestinian National Security Forces.
The World Coalition Against the Death Penalty called on Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to declare an official moratorium on the death penalty and not to ratify Mr Tha'er Rmailat's death sentence.
The World Coalition Against the Death Penalty is concerned that Mr Rmailat was not given a fair trial. His lawyer indicated that he was given only one day notice before the hearing when the legislation of the Palestinian Authority requires that a written notice be sent 72 hours in advance; and that his client was denied a psychological evaluation. (Sources: Human Rights Tribune, 21/04/2008)