Bir Lahlou (liberated territories) May 03, 2016 (SPS) - Sahrawi Human Rights Commission (CONASADH) has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating health of the Sahrawi human rights activist and political prisoner, Abdulkhalek Markhi, who is on an unlimited hunger strike since 1 April in the prison of Tiznit, in Morocco.
In a statement a copy of which obtained by the Sahrawi news agency (SPS), CONASADH underlined that the "health of the Sahrawi prisoner has seriously deteriorated due to the complications of his hunger strike," adding that "he suffers frequent fainting and has difficulties walking or moving."
The Commission blamed the Moroccan authorities for this situation and reaffirmed its "solidarity with him and his legitimate demands."
CONASADH called on "all international human rights and humanitarian organizations to exert pressure on Morocco to save the life of the Sahrawi political prisoner."
The Sahrawi Commission also condemned the "unjust" charges by Moroccan judicial authorities against the Sahrawi activist and Sahrawi prisoners claiming the right of Sahrawi people to self-determination and independence.
CONASADH urged the United Nations to set up an independent mechanism to monitor human rights situation and take actions against Moroccans found guilty of grave violations against Sahrawi civilians.
The Sahrawi activist Abdulkhalek Markhi was arrested by Moroccan authorities, following his participation in peaceful protests claiming Sahrawi people's right to self-determination and independence, and supporting victims of Morocco's human rights violations. SPS
125/090/700