Statement of concern over the state of health and current conditions of imprisonment of Mr. Cù Huy Hà Vũ by scholars and professionals around the world

We, who have signed this letter below, are scholars and professionals from around the world, who are connected by our mutual interest and engagement with Vietnam studies.  Many of us have dedicated the better parts of our careers and lives to support the study and development of this beautiful country and people.  We write this letter as friends of Vietnam, while always trying to keep in mind what is in the best interests of the country and its people.

We are writing to express our deep concerns about the current conditions of imprisonment and state of health of Mr. Cù Huy Hà Vũ.  We also write in support of the urgent plea on this matter made by Mr. Hà Vũ’s wife, Mrs. Nguyễn Thị Dương Hà, on June 4, 2013.  Mr. Hà Vũ is a prisoner of conscience, who was arrested in November 2010 on charges of “conducting propaganda” against the State for peaceful activities to advocate for democracy, the protection of human rights and other matters of social and environmental concern. He is currently serving a seven-year sentence in Prison No. 5 in ThanhHoáProvince, since April 2011.

During his time at Prison No. 5, we understand that Mr. Hà Vũ has been subjected to abuse by prison guards and denied basic rights and services, such as rights to food and basic necessities from his family, right to medical services and treatment, and right to communicate his grievances to the relevant authorities.  We understand that Mr. Hà Vũ’s health is currently in a perilous state, which is all the more urgent because of his pre-existing medical conditions.  As we are sure you will agree, these are matters of serious concern that require urgent action.

For these reasons, we strongly request the relevant authorities to intervene immediately on this matter to ensure the safety and security of Mr. Hà Vũ.

We also urge the authorities to reconsider their position on all prisoners of conscience in Vietnam and rather seek resolution to their differences through dialogue and constructive engagement.

We thank you for your attention to this matter and we trust that you will respond in a manner that reflects the civility and dignity of Vietnam.

We also express our deepest sympathies to Mrs. Dương Hà and the family of Mr. Hà Vũ, who all suffer terribly from the current situation.

June 17, 2013

Email :  VNdoithoai@gmail.com

Source: Ba Sàm

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