Press Release

PCHR condemns the Aggression against Bethlehem Court.

Date: 8 February 2000

Ref: 16/2000

PCHR expresses its condemnation of the brutal aggression carried out by a Bethlehem family against Bidaya Court, the primary court in the city of Bethlehem, on 6 February 2000. The aggression followed the Court’s decision to convict three people accused of murder. PCHR considers this aggression to be a grave violation of the rule of law, the independence of the judiciary, and the immunity of all staff of the judicial system, including judges, lawyers and others.

At the same time, PCHR affirms its support for all efforts to enhance the rule of law, independence of the judiciary and the immunity of judicial staff. PCHR expresses its full support for and solidarity with those staff, who carry out the very essential task of ensuring the security of citizens and enhancing justice.

PCHR calls on the Palestinian Authority to bring those responsible for the aggression before a fair trial and to immediately approve the Law of Judicial Independence. The law has been approved by the PLC, and provides the necessary support and protection for the judiciary.