UN joins Clooney in decrying ‘inhuman’ Brunei anti-gay law

Posted on April 1, 2019 by Admin

Penal code that imposes death by stoning for gay sex is serious setback for rights, says commissioner

The United Nations has condemned “cruel and inhuman” laws set to take effect in Brunei this week that impose death by stoning for gay sex and adultery, and amputations for theft.

“I appeal to the government to stop the entry into force of this draconian new penal code, which would mark a serious setback for human rights protections for the people of Brunei if implemented,” the UN high commissioner for human rights, Michelle Bachelet, said in a statement.

California governor to place moratorium on death penalty

Posted on March 12, 2019 by Admin

Gavin Newsom’s executive order means 737 death row inmates will not be executed during his tenure

California’s governor is set to issue a moratorium on capital punishment in the US’s most populous state, providing a reprieve for hundreds of inmates sentenced to death.

On Wednesday morning, Gavin Newsom is expected to sign a new executive order that will put in place an executive moratorium on the death penalty, meaning 737 inmates awaiting execution in California will not be put to death during the governor’s tenure.

Sri Lanka advertises for two hangmen as country resumes capital punishment

Posted on February 13, 2019 by Admin

Death penalties to resume as part of Philippines-inspired campaign to be tough on drug crime

Sri Lankan prison authorities are recruiting two hangmen after the president pledged to end a 43-year moratorium on capital punishment and execute condemned drug traffickers amid alarm over drug-related crime.

Interviews of the candidates will be conducted next month and two will be hired, prison department spokesman Thushara Upuldeniya said Wednesday.