On August 9, 2003, representatives from Civil Society Organizations and Human Rights Associations gathered to denounce the recent arrest of the lawyer and human rights activist Dr. Muhamad Mugraby, following the filing of a lawsuit by the Beirut Bar Association accusing him of continuing to practice law after a decision prohibiting him of such practice.

The present parties agreed on the following:

1. The illegality of neglecting the principle “No sentence without a decree.”

The decision taken by the disciplinary committee of the Beirut Bar Association are not valid until a decision has been reached by the Court of Appeal. This means the prosecution of Dr. Mugraby is illegal, considering that no such decision has been made.

2. The violation of freedom of expression and the right to criticize public institutions and public service servants.

The decisions taken by the disciplinary committee are based on vague accusations like “doubts about the integrity of the Judiciary” and “tarnishing the reputation of national institutions.” Freedom of expression is a right inherent to all citizens allowing for the criticism of public servants and institutions, making such prosecutions a clear attempt at limiting freedom of expression.

3. The call for the immediate release of Dr. Mugraby and stopping all future prosecutions.

Foundation of Human and Humanitarian Rights - Lebanon
Lebanese Association for Human Rights
Campaign for Integrity in the Judiciary
Hurriyat Khassa
MIRSAD
INSAN
Nouveau Droit de l’Homme – France
SOLID