Stop torture

All people have the right to be free from the fear of being tortured. Whatever the situation or conditions, the state has no right to torture anyone, whether to obtain information or to inflict punishment. These provisions, among others, are contained in the International Convention Against Torture. On this date (Oct. 23) exactly 11 years ago Indonesia signed this important, though seemingly slighted, convention.

Of the hundreds of states in existence today, only 80 have signed the Torture Convention. Although Indonesia is among the nations which have signed the convention, it has not yet ratified it.

Indonesia's Code of Criminal Law Procedures (KUHAP) contains articles which firmly protect suspects from the moment they are arrested until the investigation into their whereabouts is complete. Nevertheless, stories keep circulating about suspects under investigation being beaten to unconsciousness or even death. The latest case began Monday and concerns the death of Cece Tajudin, 42, a suspect and key witness to a robbery-murder case which occurred recently on the Jagorawi toll road. Although is as yet no proof of torture, the process of his arrest is suspicious: he was "borrowed" for questioning by other "elements".

In light of the anniversary of the signing of the Torture Convention, it would be a great irony indeed if Cece died as a consequence of the investigation process. Even more tragic since our national police are working to promote a scientific investigation process which emphasizes obtaining evidence rather than extracting an admission of guilt from the suspect.

As we become more aware of the importance of human rights protection and commemorate the signing of the Convention Against Torture, we must make this appeal: Stop the use of torture in whatever form, by whoever and whatever the purpose.

-- Republika, Jakarta