Libya Crimes Watch (LCW) has reported that Hassan Al-Frjani, a Libyan Member of Parliament for Tarhuna, has been arbitrarily detained for 490 days in Mitiga prison.
According to the organisation, MP Al-Firjani was detained by Al Radaa for Countering Terrorism and Organized Crime on 27 February 2023 in Tripoli. Despite his parliamentary immunity under Law No. 4 of 2014 and an order from the Libyan Attorney General for his release, Al-Frjani was unlawfully referred to the military judiciary. For nearly eight months, Al Radaa has refused to present him before a judge.
LCW has called for the immediate and unconditional release of MP Hassan Al-Frjani. The organisation holds the Government of National Unity and the Libyan Presidential Council fully responsible for his safety.
Last week, LCW said it has documented numerous cases of torture targeting activists, journalists, and migrants in Libya. The absence of a functional judicial system exacerbates this problem, allowing perpetrators to act with impunity. June 26, marking the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, coincides with the entry into force of the United Nations Convention against Torture in 1987. Although Libya acceded to the Convention in 1989, its legal framework remains non-compliant with international standards.
LCW has urged Libyan authorities to respect their international obligations under the Convention against Torture. The organisation has called for immediate action to stop all acts of torture and stressed the need to amend national legislation to align with the Convention. LCW emphasised that the Libyan government must take serious steps to address this issue and provide justice for victims.
The prevalence of torture in Libya is a severe human rights violation that demands urgent attention. Torture affects not only the victims but also undermines the rule of law and societal trust. LCW highlighted cases where individuals have been subjected to severe torture without legal recourse or compensation.
LCW has reiterated its call for immediate action from Libyan authorities and the international community to address the issue of torture. The organisation stressed the importance of aligning national legislation with international standards and ensuring accountability for perpetrators. LCW hopes that increased awareness and pressure will lead to meaningful changes and justice for torture victims in Libya.
