|
FAC News - Tuesday, February 19, 2002 8:05 AM ISA detainees’ health deteriorates The health of six Internal Security Act (ISA) detainees have deteriorated since they began their "soft" hunger strike on 4 February 2002 says Bahirah Tajul Aris, the wife of National Justice Party Youth Leader Ezam Mohd Nor. The six – Ezam, Saari Sungib, Tian Chua, Dr Badrulamin Bahron, Lokman Noor Adam and Hishamuddin Rais – have boycotted all food and drinks supplied by the prison authority and are sustaining themselves on water and biscuits plus, occasionally, some fruits. "They have lost between two to five kilograms over the last two weeks alone. Since their detention about ten months ago, they have lost more than ten kilograms. Their blood pressure and blood sugar have also dropped to dangerous levels and they are now passing out blood in their urine," said Bahirah. "Needless to say, they are all weak and you can see that the ‘hunger strike’ is taking its toll. And they have not even started their total hunger strike yet, which they would certainly consider to do if their demands to the government are ignored or met with silence." "We all stand by our husbands and support their actions," added Bahirah. "But it’s not easy seeing them in this condition." "Our main concern is what will happen once they embark on their total hunger strike?" asked Bahirah. "I am worried about the impact on their health once they do so." "We know this is the only avenue left open to them to get the government’s attention. But the implications to their health in the long-term can be very damaging." "As it is, they are already so weak and not in the best of health even now. We don’t think they are fit enough to survive a total hunger strike, even if only for a few days." "We hope the government will do something about it. Our husbands have made certain demands but, so far, the government has ignored these demands. We know they are fighting for justice and asking that they be tried for their crimes if they have committed any." "Detention without trial is cruel. They have a right to a proper trial in a court of law. And they have a right to protest their detention without trial. But we are worried our husbands may be sent home in coffins even before they can get the trials they are demanding," said Bahirah, clearly fighting hard to hold back her tears.
|
|
Back |