Amnesty International Media Release
For Immediate Release
Monday, August 24, 2009

Latest Bush-era Torture Revelations Corroborate Need for Full-scale Investigation into Disturbing Counterterrorism Practices, Says Amnesty International

Contact: AIUSA media office, 202-544-0200 x302

(Washington) – Larry Cox, Amnesty International USA's executive director, issued the following statement on the release of various documents and announcements about Bush-era counterterrorism tactics:

"The fresh revelations that CIA agents carried out mock executions and threats of violent torture further underscore how much the American people do not know about the previous administration’s illegal and immoral actions undertaken in the name of national security.

"The CIA IG's report reveals that even the CIA realized that its techniques are morally suspect and counterproductive at best. There are absolutely no circumstances in which techniques rising to torture or cruel treatment can be justified. Period. No ifs, ands or buts.

"That the Bush administration was prepared to abandon America's human rights legal obligations is a cautionary tale for those who think any nation can disregard human rights in the fight against terrorism. The report demonstrates that the U.S. government agencies' internal monitoring systems are unreliable in upholding American values or laws. Compliance comes through disclosure and reform.

"President Barack Obama has pledged an end to torture and other illegal practices. But until it is clear that the laws will be vigorously enforced, words will ring hollow, raising the spectre of Bush 2.0.

"The IG's report demonstrates that it is more important than ever that a comprehensive and independent investigation with the full force of the law is created to reveal and hold accountable those who requested, devised and carried out illegal counter-terrorism practices. It's time to appoint a special prosecutor to prove that U.S. laws will be enforced, no matter who violated them."

"Attorney General Holder's decision to name a prosecutor to reopen and investigate half of the cases brought to the Department of Justice because of questionable interrogation tactics is a welcome, yet incomplete, step. Any meaningful investigation would encompass both those who claimed they were following orders and those who designed and demanded that the illegal policies be implemented."

# # #

Amnesty International is a Nobel Peace Prize-winning grassroots activist organization with more than 2.2 million supporters, activists and volunteers in more than 150 countries campaigning for human rights worldwide. The organization investigates and exposes abuses, educates and mobilizes the public, and works to protect people wherever justice, freedom, truth and dignity are denied.

For more information, please contact the AIUSA media office at 202.544.0200 x302, or visit: www.amnestyusa.org

Send this page to a friend

Your Email:
Friend's Email:
Add a Message:
Security code: (case sensitive)