25/11/2008
Appeal of the Republican Party of Turkmenistan in exile
Six years have passed since the events which left indelible scars in hearts of the Turkmen people. On 25 November of 2002 Niyazov staged an attempt on himself, which he later used to destroy any opposition and dissent in the country. Dictator skillfully took advantage of the war against global terrorism in his own interest and labeled every oppositionist and sensible Turkmen as “terrorist”.
Two years ago Turkmenistan entered the post-Niyazov era – which was proclaimed by the new president Berdymukhammedov as “Renaissance”. Statements of Berdymukhammedov on the democratic process made during election campaign raised hopes in hearts of the Turkmen people, that loyal sons of Turkmenistan which were cloistered by Niyazov, will finally see freedom and will be rehabilitated. Today’s disappointment of people who trusted those empty words and promises is deep. Being in power for almost two years, Berdymukhammedov not only did not release political prisoners, he did not even lift the dark veil of uncertainty about them. No one today knows precisely whether these people are alive or not, what is their health status, what are conditions of their detention. It is clear that Berdymukhammedov keeps this secret because he is afraid to reveal the whole truth about the events of 25 November 2002. It is not clear, however, why Berdymukhammedov takes on his conscience all the suffering and tears of innocent people and their families.
Republican Party of Turkmenistan in exile calls upon the president of Turkmenistan Berdymukhammedov:
To permit regular visits of family members and relatives of political prisoners, and to allow provision of medical supplies, hygiene and sanitary conditions and all other necessary means.
Ensure access of the International Red Cross to political prisoners. This is reflected in UN resolutions.
Review all criminal cases of political prisoners using independent lawyers and judges in accordance with international standards and requirements.
Republican Party of Turkmenistan in exile appeals to people of Turkmenistan to remember the best sons of the native country, to believe in their purity, their love for their homeland, to believe in their resilience and courage, to believe in their dedication. We express our sympathy to families and friends of our colleagues.
25 November 2008
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