Barran Press
On Thursday, December 26, 2024, the Head of the Freedoms and Rights Committee in the Yemeni Journalists Syndicate, Jamal Anaam, called for efforts to "restore the dignity of journalist Ahmed Maher, provide the necessary support for his recovery, and help him overcome the years of suffering and hardship." This appeal comes a day after a court ruling cleared Maher of all charges against him.
In an exclusive interview with "Barran Press," Anaam expressed the syndicate's anticipation for Maher's release from prison in Aden with "much joy and celebration." He noted that the ruling serves as a "reaffirmation of trust in the judiciary despite the prolonged suffering of Maher," which lasted for over three years.
"We are very pleased with the verdict from the Specialized Criminal Appeals Court in Aden, which acquitted our colleague Ahmed Maher and ordered his release without any conditions," Anaam added.
Anaam expressed hope for Maher's swift return to his "family and life," urging an end to his prolonged suffering, especially since he has already served most of the initial sentence. He emphasized the need for the prompt implementation of this decision, which he believes brings justice to all despite its delay.
Anaam also thanked the journalism community for their unwavering support for Maher since the beginning, maintaining their commitment and confidence in his case and the fairness of the Yemeni judiciary despite the surrounding circumstances and disputes.
He expressed regret for "some who falsely claim to be journalists" who supported the injustice and acted as agents of oppression, showing bias against Maher from the early days of his ordeal.
Earlier today, the Yemeni Journalists Syndicate welcomed the acquittal issued by the Criminal Appeals Division in Aden, South Yemen, for journalist Ahmed Maher.
In a statement viewed by "Barran Press," the syndicate emphasized that Maher spent two years in prison "unjustly," enduring "various forms of intimidation and torture."
The statement added, "We are surprised by the Public Prosecutor's Office's obstinate stance against Maher by appealing the ruling, despite his case becoming a matter of public opinion." The syndicate renewed its demand for Maher's release, and compensation for his physical and psychological harm, and called on "relevant authorities to intervene to end his suffering, demonstrate goodwill towards press freedoms, and provide a safe environment for journalistic work in Yemen."
On Wednesday, the Criminal Appeals Division issued a verdict acquitting journalist Ahmed Maher of all charges and ordered his immediate release.
Journalist Ahmed Maher was kidnapped on August 6, 2022, by forces affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council in Aden. He was subjected to enforced disappearance and torture before being brought to trial on unproven terrorism-related charges.