Irish Family Advocates for Father’s Release from Iraqi Detention

Robert Pether, an Australian national detained in Iraq since April 2021 on fraud charges, faces a prolonged legal battle described by the UN as arbitrary detention. His family, facing financial strain and emotional hardship, plea for more support as they advocate for his release amidst new charges of money laundering. Diplomatic efforts by Ireland and Australia continue but face challenges regarding judicial accountability in Iraq.

Robert Pether, an Australian engineer residing in County Roscommon, Ireland, has been detained in Iraq for nearly four years since his arrest in April 2021 on fraud charges. His case has drawn international attention, prompting the United Nations to classify his detention as arbitrary. Pether, who had been working on reconstructing Iraq’s Central Bank headquarters, became embroiled in a dispute that led to his arrest alongside Egyptian colleague Khalid Radwan, accused of embezzling project funds. Their lawyers have suggested the duo is effectively held as hostages amidst a contractual disagreement.

After being arrested during a bank meeting, the family endured days without contact, fearing for Mr. Pether’s life. He and Mr. Radwan were charged with fraud in August 2021, leading to a swift conviction and a combined fine of $12 million, along with five years of imprisonment. Appeals have been unsuccessful, and the UN has criticized the case for violating fair trial and due process rights, with reports indicating abusive interrogations.

Mrs. Desree Pether, Robert’s wife and an Irish citizen, has dedicated herself to advocating for his release, grappling with mounting legal fees currently estimated at €120,000, which may force the family to sell their home. Their eldest son, Flynn, expressed his struggles during this challenging time and highlighted the numerous milestones his father missed over the years. Despite some hope of release earlier this year, new charges of money laundering emerged, prolonging their ordeal and complicating their legal battle further.

Efforts by the Irish government, which actively supports Robert Pether’s case, face limitations due to his Australian citizenship. Flynn emphasized the need for accountability from Iraq, particularly in light of international obligations under the New York Convention. He has reported a decline in his father’s health during his detention, a situation exacerbated by inadequate medical care.

As Flynn navigates his university studies, he continues to seek support for his father’s release. The family argues for accountability from the Iraqi authorities, insisting that substantial evidence exists proving Mr. Pether’s innocence. The Department of Foreign Affairs in Ireland and Australia has been consistently engaged in efforts to secure his release, with frequent communications to Iraqi officials.

The prolonged detention of Robert Pether raises substantial concerns regarding international legal protocols and human rights standards. As the case unfolds, the challenges faced by his family highlight the importance of diplomatic pressure in securing justice. The coordinated advocacy efforts from both Irish and Australian governments reflect the need for robust responses to violations like those experienced by Mr. Pether. His family’s ongoing struggle to maintain hope amidst adversity illustrates the profound impact of such detention on personal and familial well-being.

Original Source: www.rte.ie