DAMASCUS, 28 April 2004 — Human rights and opposition groups called yesterday for the immediate release of jailed Syrian activist Aktham Naisse who they said was seriously ill and faced being put on trial for crimes against the state. In a statement sent to AFP, the umbrella group said the authorities were responsible for Naisse’s worsening health. He has kidney and heart problems and reportedly suffered a stroke after being arrested on April 13. Naisse received a blow to the head during detention and “needs permanent medical attention,” the group of 17 movements said, demanding his “immediate release”. Among the signatories were the Association of Human Rights in Syria and the opposition National Democratic Assembly, a coalition of five banned parties, as well as prohibited Kurdish groups like Yakiti.
