Investigate Poisoning of Top Indonesian Activist

(New York, November 11, 2004) A Dutch newspaper reported on November 11 that an autopsy on Indonesian human rights activist Munir indicated that he had been poisoned before his death two months ago. Citing sources in the Indonesian government, the paper reported that an autopsy conducted by the Dutch Forensic Institute revealed a fatal dose of arsenic in Munir’s system.

Early on September 7, the 38-year-old activist died after falling ill on a flight to the Netherlands, where he planned to continue his studies. Some colleagues felt his death was suspicious due to the frequent death threats he had received. In 2001 a bomb was placed outside his parent’s home while he was visiting, and his organization’s office had been attacked after criticizing the military.

Human Rights First is encouraged by initial reports that the government of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who took office on October 20, has ordered a police investigation based on the autopsy findings.

“This case will be the new government’s first opportunity to stand up for human rights defenders,” said Matt Easton of Human Rights First. “The Dutch and Indonesian governments must work together to uncover the circumstances of Munir’s death and hold any perpetrators accountable.”

Munir came to prominence as an outspoken critic of the military in the chaotic years surrounding President Suharto’s fall from power. Munir and the organizations he helped to build went on to play an important role in many of the major human rights issues in the country, combining fearless advocacy and meticulous research.

Munir worked in various positions at the Legal Aid Foundation before founding the Commission for Disappearances and Victims of Violence (Komisi untuk Orang Hilang dan Korban Kekerasan, or Kontras) in 1998. Kontras played an important role in the struggle for accountability after the disappearance of pro-democracy activists during the transition from authoritarian rule. The organization was also at the forefront of human rights investigations into state violence in East Timor, Ambon, and Aceh. Munir had recently helped found a new NGO, Imparsial, and was serving as its Executive Director.

He also served on the Commission to Investigate Human Rights Violations in East Timor after the violence there in 1999. Munir played an important role in uncovering evidence of military responsibility for the violence and recommending action against high-ranking officers.

More on Human Rights Defenders
http://www.humanrightsfirst.org/defenders/hr_defenders.htm

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