During the session, information was provided on the case of Iraqi MP Mr Mohammad Al-Dainy as well as the situation of cases in Yemen which the IPU are currently monitoring. At the time of the hearing, Alkarama's Yemen office representative was also present in Geneva and he was able to provide direct information concerning the cases in question.
Alkarama provided key information regarding not only the circumstances of Mr Al-Dainy's arrest but the arrests of his family members and associates who were also taken into custody by Iraqi military forces. At least 14 members of Mr Al-Dainy's family and staff were arrested, including his 85 year-old father. In addition to the arrests, military personnel ransacked the homes and burnt cars of those related to or associated with Mr Al-Dainy.
During the hearing, Alkarama also responded to various particular questions from the Committee regarding particularities surrounding Mr Al-Dainy's arrest and subsequent disappearance. Concerns were also expressed about the arrests of Mr Al-Dainy's entourage and the general situation of Iraqi MPs working on human rights issues. More general questions addressed the future of Iraq after US military withdrawal and the role of religion in human rights in Iraq.
During the session, Alkarama's representative in Yemen was able to corroborate information regarding the situation of the Yemeni Parliamentarians in question. He also provided further information regarding false accusations directed against them.
Decisions regarding this hearing are to be adopted by the Committee in due course.