Gulf States human rights monitors report that Sheikh Al-Ali, the author of a number of books on Islamic law, was arrested on 16 January 1995 and that his home was searched and books seized. Arabic newspapers suggest he may have been arrested for the expression of his views on Islam, or for his criticism of […]
Gulf States human rights monitors report that Sheikh Al-Ali, the
author of a number of books on Islamic law, was arrested on 16
January 1995 and that his home was searched and books seized.
Arabic newspapers suggest he may have been arrested for the
expression of his views on Islam, or for his criticism of the
government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is thought that
he may be deported. Said to be a well-known Iraqi lawyer, Sheikh
Al-Ali fled Iraq for Kuwait in 1971 after being wanted for his
opposition to the Iraqi government. He left Kuwait for the UAE in
1980 where he is said to have worked for some time at the
Ministry of Awqaf (Islamic Affairs) and to have published a
number of books on Islamic law and morals. The London-based human
rights group Freedom says that Sheikh Al-Ali is being held at the
headquarters of the State Security Apparatus in Abu Dhabi. No
reason has apparently been given for his arrest, and he has
reportedly been denied contact with his family and lawyer.
Recommended Action
Letters should be sent to the government of the UAE:
in incommunicado detention since 16 January 1995
him and reasons for his arrest
detained solely for the peaceful expression of his views
his right to freedom of expression
Appeals To
Minister of Culture and Information
Ministry of Culture and Information
PO Box 17
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Fax: + 971 2 45 11 55 (or try +971 2 45 23 04)
