http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/HRW/f7590c53e65611723b28bac4b89ed495.htm(Jalal Abad, May 24, 2005)-Uzbek authorities should immediately release a prominent human rights defender detained in Andijan, Human Rights Watch said today. The defender, Saidjahon Zainabitdinov, has been in custody since May 21. While the charges against him are unknown, Zainabitdinov's detention appears to be linked to his having spoken out about recent demonstrations in Andijan and the government's use of force. The arrest raises serious concerns about a growing crackdown against activists and others in the wake of events in Andijan.
A government-appointed lawyer who visited Saidjahon Zainabitdinov's family yesterday confirmed that the human rights defender is in government custody. Zainabitditnov is the chairman of the Andijan human rights group Apelliatsia ("Appeal").
"We are extremely concerned for Saidjahon Zainabitdinov's safety," said Holly Cartner, Europe and Central Asia director at Human Rights Watch. "The Uzbek government should release him immediately pending an independent review of any charges against him."
The Uzbek government has a long-standing record of torture, ill-treatment and serious procedural violations against detainees as well as harsh treatment of human rights activists and political opponents.
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