The four organizations called on the prime minister to issue a clear and unambiguous statement that the Nepali Government will not seek to end investigations prematurely, withdraw charges or issue amnesties in cases involving serious human rights violations. They also called upon the government to put in place an independent legal and institutional framework to ensure that the criminal justice system and transitional justice institutions such as the promised truth and reconciliation commission can work effectively to end impunity.
The letter reminded the government that the proposed withdrawal of criminal cases and grants of amnesty are prohibited under international law and standards, as set out in Article 24 of the UN Updated Set of Principles for the Promotion and Protection of Human Rights through Action to Combat Impunity and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, as affirmed by the UN Human Rights Committee.
“The proposal to withdraw criminal cases and grant amnesty to people accused of human rights abuses would deny victims of these crimes their fundamental rights, including the right to an effective remedy,” said Mandira Sharma, director of Advocacy Forum.
“This agreement would threaten the principles of constitutional supremacy, judicial independence, and the rule of law.”
“We understand the need to forge consensus among the political parties to bring the peace process and constitution writing process to a satisfactory conclusion,” said Sam Zarifi, Asia director at Amnesty International. “However, this should not be done at the expense of justice and safeguarding the rights of Nepal’s people.”
“To be consistent with Nepal’s international obligations, any withdrawals or other actions affecting the rights of victims must be made as part of an independent and impartial process conducted in accordance with the rules set down by the Supreme Court,” said Brad Adams, Asia director at Human Rights Watch. “Under no circumstances should they affect cases involving crimes that could amount to violations of international law such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, enforced disappearances, torture and ill-treatment.”
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