SABS STATEMENT On The Execution of Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr
by Moulana Sayed Ali Abass Razawi, Director-General, Scottish Ahlul Bayt Society
Release Date: 2nd January 2016
02/01/2016
Duty-bound to treat life as sacred and to uphold human rights, the Scottish Ahlul Bayt Society with a heavy heart condemns in absolute terms the execution of the senior scholar Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr, who was executed along with 46 others, in Saudi Arabia according to a statement released by the Saudi Interior Ministry. Sheikh Nimr championed the rights of marginalised minorities in Saudi Arabia and was sentenced to death in October 2014.
Human rights agencies confirm, along with expert opinion, that Sheikh al-Nimr condemned violent action and called upon peaceful means to uphold justice and the rights of all the citizens of the Kingdom. Despite all evidence to the contrary, he was accused of working to sow discord in the land and coordinating attacks on police during demonstrations.
We abhor the loss of life, and the gross miscarriage of justice. Such occurrences are not uncommon, and it is therefore imperative that communities be called to unite against any, and all such atrocities, perpetrated against minorities anywhere in the world. We call on the international community to condemn the Kingdom’s actions, to work to assuage the growing sectarian tensions, and to encourage all involved to take responsibility.
It is binding upon us all to ensure that everyone may enjoy their fundamental civil and political rights, to establish the platform for freedom and harmony, and to bolster an atmosphere of cohesion and healthy participation. Those of all faiths and none share a common ethos, and it is this intrinsic humanity that must be strengthened, and affronts to it condemned.
Moulana Sayed Ali Abbas Razawi
Director-General
Scottish Ahlul Bayt Society
Also we would like to thank Vice President Federica Mogherini and her team for working all day to release this statement by the EU in regards to the execution of Sheikh Nimr (ra).
Bruxelles, 02/01/2016
160102_01_en
STATEMENT
Statement of the HR/VP Federica Mogherini on the executions in Saudi Arabia
02/01/2016
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia carried out 47 executions earlier today.
The EU reiterates its strong opposition to the use of the death penalty in all circumstances, and in particular in cases of mass executions.
The specific case of Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr raises serious concerns regarding freedom of expression and the respect of basic civil and political rights, to be safeguarded in all cases, also in the framework of the fight against terrorism. This case has also the potential of enflaming further the sectarian tensions that already bring so much damage to the entire region, with dangerous consequences.
The EU calls on the Saudi authorities to promote reconciliation between the different communities in the Kingdom, and all actors to show restraint and responsibility.
Link: http://eeas.europa.eu/statements-eeas/2016/160102_01_en.htm
And finally after a crucial meeting in the Scottish Parliament, the following motion has been passed.
Our thanks to Bill Kidd MSP, John Docherty and members of the Scottish Parliament for honouring our request.
Motion Number: S4M-15273
Lodged By: Bill Kidd
Date Lodged: 07/01/2016
Title: Condemning the Mass Executions in Saudi Arabia
Motion Text:
That the Parliament condemns the reported mass execution of 47 prisoners in Saudi Arabia on 2 January 2016, including the Shia cleric, Sheikh Nimr al-Nimr; considers that Scotland is firmly opposed to the death penalty and is greatly disappointed with Saudi Arabia’s decision to carry out these beheadings, and extends its utmost condolences to the families and loved ones who have been affected.
