Elizabeth May demands Stephen Harper intervene after Canadian journalist sentenced to three years in prison
(OTTAWA) - Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada (Saanich – Gulf Islands) released the following statement today regarding the three-year prison sentence given to Canadian journalist Mohamed Fahmy:
“I categorically condemn this verdict and demand that the Canadian government take action. Mr. Fahmy must be returned to Canada immediately.
“This verdict sets a dangerous precedent for freedom of the press and free speech. Canadian foreign correspondents expect unwavering support from their government and must be protected. Instead, there’s been nothing but silence from Stephen Harper.
“The Canadian government has failed to support Mr. Fahmy. Stephen Harper has not intervened, despite repeated calls for him to step in and support an innocent Canadian citizen, who has been wrongly imprisoned for more than a year.
“Even though this is an election period, we must ensure that politics does not get in the way of helping Mr. Fahmy return to his family.”
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For additional information or to arrange an interview, contact:
Julian Morelli
Director of Communications
Green Party of Canada
cell: (613) 614 4916
office: (613) 562 4916 (224)
julian.morelli@greenparty.ca
Or
Kirsten Strom
Executive Assistant to Director of Communications
t: 613.562.4916 (200)
Toll Free 1.866.868.3447
kirsten.strom@greenparty.ca