Opposition Figure Arrested as Hearings Begin

Another member of the Damascus Declaration for Democratic National Change was arrested the day before 12 leaders of the opposition group went on trial.



Announced the news on its website on August 2, the Damascus Declaration said Osama Ashur, a new member of its national council, was arrested on July 29. No further details were given.



The group suggested the Syrian government was trying to “prove that it has the ability to do anything it wants, at any time and under any political circumstances”.



Twelve national council members, who were arrested following a meeting in December 2007, were questioned in a criminal court in Damascus on July 30.



Human rights groups including the Damascus Declaration and the London-based Syrian Human Rights Committee issued statements on July 30 condemning the hearing. Several Syrian human rights groups issued statements demanding the release of political prisoners including the Damascus Declaration leaders.



The Damascus Declaration warned the Syrian government that it would lack international credibility unless it changed its domestic policies.



The 12 leaders are accused of spreading false news, demoralising the morale of the nation, weakening national sentiment, fuelling sectarian conflict, undermining the prestige of the state and affiliation with a secret organisation.



They have all denied the charges, saying they are working to bring peaceful, democratic change to Syria.