UN experts call for Imaan and Hadi’s immediate release, seek withdrawal of “unfounded charges”

The United Nations Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders has called for the immediate release of the couple and urged authorities to drop what it described as “unfounded criminal and terrorism charges” against them.

The UN experts said bringing up an older case shortly after the couple secured bail appeared to amount to using the criminal justice system as a form of punishment for freedom of expression and human rights advocacy.

They said they had monitored the proceedings against Mazari and Chattha since their initial arrests in January, expressing concern that the cases appeared aimed at intimidating the lawyers and discouraging others in the legal profession.

The experts also criticised the use of “vague and overbroad” anti-terrorism provisions, saying such measures could restrict the lawyers’ ability to promote and defend human rights.

They stressed that international standards require governments to protect lawyers from intimidation, harassment, improper interference and prosecution for performing their professional duties, while also safeguarding their freedom of expression.

The experts further said the couple should have access to lawyers of their choice, their families and appropriate medical care.