Human rights groups doubt independence of Uribe investigation

[Judi Lynn]

Human rights groups doubt independence of Uribe investigation
Wednesday, 15 June 2011 14:15
Jim Glade

One day before Colombia's former President Alvaro Uribe speaks in front of the congressional commission that is investigating his possible involvement in the DAS wiretap scandal, human rights organizations doubted the legitimacy of the process.

Director of Human Rights Watch Jose Miguel Vivanco said in a report from Caracol Radio that, "This is not a judicial function, it's under political control and the political tendencies are going to direct the result of the investigation."

The three person congressional commission in charge of investigating the former head of state has been the topic of controversy after three House members resigned; one because of his personal friendship with Uribe, one after Uribe accused him of bias and the latest because of threats he received.

The International Federation of Human Rights (FIDH) asked Colombian authorities to guarantee the independence of the preliminary investigation opened against Uribe.

More:
http://colombiareports.com/colombia-news/news/16998-human-rights-groups-doubt-independence-of-uribe-investigation.html