AI calls for investigations

Amnesty International has urged the government of Guinea-Bissau to investigate political unrest and other allegations of human rights abuses in November 2000, so that the country, splintered by political dissent, can be reconciled, AI researcher Marise Castro told IRIN on Friday. One of AI's key demands is for an investigation into the death of General Ansumane Mane who, according to government officials, died in a shootout with loyalist forces after days on the run. Days earlier, Mane had seized control of the armed forces after revoking military promotions made by President Kumba Yala. Finding the truth about Mane's death and the other rights issues would be a key factor in achieving reconciliation, Castro said. The 18-page report, compiled after two weeks of investigations in March by Castro and a colleague, also denounces violations of freedom of expression, poor prison conditions and illegal detentions. AI appealed to the government to promote rule of law in the country. It also called on the international community to help Guinea-Bissau reform and strengthen its judiciary, provide human rights training to security forces and support peace efforts. Guinea-Bissau has been rocked by instability since Mane staged a successful 11-month revolt, from June 1998 to May 1999, that toppled the government of President Joao Bernardo Vieira.