In a distressing update from occupied El-Aaiun, the family of Sahrawi prisoner and noted human rights advocate Naâma Asfari has expressed profound concern after losing all communication with him since Monday. Asfari is currently detained at a local prison in Kenitra, Morocco, and the lack of information surrounding his well-being has left his family in a state of alarm. This unsettling silence comes at a critical juncture, as Asfari enters the 40th day of his open-ended hunger strike, raising significant alarm regarding his health and safety.
The interruption of contact has exacerbated the family's fears, particularly as Asfari's health has reportedly deteriorated during his hunger strike, which commenced on June 8. Over these weeks, he has lost an alarming 10 kilograms, which poses serious risks to his health and life. Concern for his physical condition is compounded by the ongoing hunger strike, which has now reached a pivotal milestone of 40 days.
Asfari's family emphasizes that his demands are rooted in legitimacy and revolve around the necessity for the Moroccan authorities to heed the directives and recommendations provided by United Nations bodies. Notably, the UN Committee against Torture in case No. CAT/C/69/D/606/2014 and the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention No. WGAD/2023/23 have both unequivocally called for Asfari’s release, emphasizing the need for redress of the harm inflicted upon him and adherence to international human rights mandates.
With the situation growing increasingly precarious, Asfari's family holds the Moroccan authorities accountable, particularly the General Delegation for Prison Administration and Reintegration, for the alarming developments surrounding his health and safety. They assert that any negative consequences arising from his continued hunger strike should be attributed to the authorities' failure to address his legitimate demands and their refusal to facilitate contact with his family since Monday.
The family urgently demands the immediate disclosure of Asfari's health status, the reinstatement of unrestricted communication between him and his family and legal representatives, and the fulfillment of his rightful demands, notably the implementation of the UN's decisions advocating for his release. Furthermore, they appeal to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, relevant special rapporteurs, and various international and national human rights organizations to intervene promptly. Such action is deemed critical to safeguard Asfari’s life, ensure his fundamental rights are respected, and compel the Moroccan authorities to meet their international obligations.
As reported by spsrasd.info.
