“The reports we have received of serious violence, including murder, during the protests are very disturbing,” speak High Commissioner Michelle Bachelet, while calling on authorities to “exercise maximum restraint”.
DEADMAN
According to the Prosecutor General’s office, 18 people were killed and 243 injured, 94 of them seriously, in clashes between protesters and security forces in the regional capital Nukus.
But the actual number of casualties could be much higher, according to the United Nations human rights office (OHCHR).
While the identities of those killed were not immediately made clear, they were reported to have been shot in the head and body by bullets.
I urge the authorities to immediately open a transparent and independent investigation – Acting UN chief
“To ensure accountability, I urge the authorities to immediately open a transparent and independent investigation into any allegations of criminal acts committed in that context, including including violations of State agencies,” Ms. Bachelet said.
Opposition to Secession
Around the autonomous region, thousands have opposed planned constitutional changes that would strip the Republic of Karakalpakstan of its constitutional right to secede, based on a nationwide referendum.
The president said Saturday that those plans would be scrapped.
Crush dissent
Following the violence, media reported a thick military presence in the city, as the Government imposed emergency regulations, including a curfew and internet shutdown.
The city was supposed to be quiet on the weekend and yesterday.
However, during and after the protests, more than 500 people were detained.
The UN human rights chief expressed concern that one person had been charged and faced up to 20 years in prison “for plotting to usurp power or to subvert the constitutional order”.
“People should not be criminalized for exercising their rights,” she said.
Freedom of peaceful assembly
According to Ms Bachelet, all detainees should have prompt access to lawyers, their proceedings and ensure a fair trial.
“Under International Covenant on Civil and Political Rightsof which Uzbekistan is a Member State, everyone has the right to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and the right to participate in public affairs”.
She called on the Government to immediately restore internet access, stressing that such a ban has the potential to indiscriminately and broadly affect basic rights to freedom of expression and access to information.
The High Commissioner also reminded the authorities that restrictions under emergency law are subject to international law; necessary, proportionate and non-discriminatory; has a time limit; and includes key safeguards against excess.
