Statement by the spokesperson of HR Catherine Ashton on death sentence in Gambia, Brussels, 16 July 2010

The spokesperson of High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice President of the Commission, Catherine Ashton, has issued a statement expressing grave concern concerning the death sentence pronounced on 15 July 2010 against 8 persons accused of treason and conspiracy.

The EU urges the Gambian authorities not to carry out any executions against the convicted individuals, and expects the authorities to respect their right of appeal and to take all necessary steps to ensure that their right to a fair trial is fully guaranteed.

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