URGENT ACTION

CANADIAN CITIZEN SENTENCED TO LIFE

Bashir Makhtal, who has Canadian citizenship, was sentenced to life imprisonment on 3 August, in Ethiopia. He had been convicted of four terror-related charges on 27 July.

The government has denied that his trial was unfair, though Bashir Makhtarhas consistently denied all the charges. His lawyer intends to appeal.

No further action is requested from the UA network. Many thanks to all who sent appeals. Amnesty International will monitor Bahir Makhtal's situation, and take further campaigning action as necessary.

This is the first update of UA 207/09 AFR 25/005/2009. Further information: www.amnesty.org/en/region/ethiopia

URGENT ACTION

CANADIAN CITIZEN SENTENCED TO LIFE

Further information on UA: 207/09 Index: AFR 25/006/2009 Issue Date: 03 August 2009