Tanzania's Repression Intensifies: Daily Brief

Tanzania's repression intensifies; Iraqi security forces respond to protests with lethal force; a Congolese warlord wants to start a new political party; EU Parliament urges tough action against Egypt crackdown; Israel restricts the movement of yet another human rights defender; Cambodia continues to detain activists; and we reflect on the passing of US Congressman Elijah Cummings. 

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Tanzania’s repression of the media, human rights defenders, and opposition parties has intensified since 2015. Two separate reports from HRW and Amnesty International show that authorities undermine the rights to freedom of expression and association.

Iraqi security forces killed at least eight protestors by firing tear gas cannisters into the demonstrating crowd. The protestors demanded improved services and more action to stop corruption. Earlier this month HRW already documented the government's use of excessive lethal force in dealing with these demonstrations.

In DR Congo, a warlord who is responsible for numerous atrocities wants to start a new political party. The Congolese authorities should ensure he remains securely in prison, and open judicial proceedings into his alleged crimes. 

The European Union Parliament urges the EU to review its relationship with Egypt and secure human rights progress in the country. 

Israel has banned an Amnesty researcher from travelling. This is the most recent action in a series of restraints against human rights defenders.

Lawmakers from Southeast Asia expressed disappointment that the Cambodian Supreme Court did not grant bail to a youth activist, emphasizing that the judiciary should not detain people solely for exercising their fundamental freedoms.

"America has lost a hero at a time when they are in great demand but in short supply." Nicole Austin-Hillery remembers US Congressman Elijah Cummings

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