EU Presidency statement on the death in custody of Ogulsapar Muradova in Turkmenistan

Press release 361/2006
15 September, 2006

It is with deep concern that the Presidency of the European Union has learned about the death in custody of Ogulsapar Muradova. The Presidency calls for an independent investigation into the cause of her death. 

In this connection the Presidency also expresses its deep concern about the denial of access of observers to the trial against Ogulsapar Muradova, Annakurban Amanklychev and Sapardurdy Khadijev. This denial would appear to be in conflict with the individual's right to a public hearing and it raises questions whether the proceedings in question constituted a fair trial or whether due process of law has been observed.

The European Union calls upon Turkmenistan to respect its obligations under international law and on the right to a fair trial.

The Presidency also urges the government of Turkmenistan to guarantee the safety of Muradova's family members and two other detained persons.