Sudan’s intelligence apparatus targets activists – independent UN rights expert

Wrapping up a mission to Sudan, a United Nations independent human rights expert today reported that the country’s intelligence structures continue targeting activists.

Sima Samar told reporters in Khartoum that while the peace process remains on track “fundamental freedoms of expression and association continue to be curtailed by National Intelligence Security Service (NISS) and Military Intelligence.”

The Special Rapporteur, who serves in an individual personal capacity, said human rights defenders, students, political opposition parties, internally displaced people (IDPs) and tribal leaders continue to be targeted for their activities in violation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and the new Interim National Constitution, which contains a bill of rights.

She cited “credible reports that the security apparatus continue to arbitrarily arrest and detain” and said that detainees “are subjected to torture and ill-treatment and denied pre-trial and fair trial guarantees.”

Ms. Samar raised these concerns with officials of the NISS who pledged reform of the service in accordance with the CPA. They also said steps have been taken to ensure the NSIS is more representative and that draft legislation is being prepared to replace the National Security Act.