18:23, 23 September 2003

Abdul-Khakim Sultygov accuses human rights organizations of pandering separatists

The Russian President's envoy for human rights in Chechnya Abdul-Khakim Sultygov accuses a number of non-government human rights organizations of pandering separatists. In his yesterday's interview he gave comments on Maskhadov's letter that fell into Russian special services' hands. This letter contains information about separatists' intention to hold an international conference in Baku in October 2003, with human rights activists taking part.

"Maskhadov's letter with a request on financing a regular "peacemaking conference" is an acknowledgement of the role of a certain group of non-government human rights organizations in the propaganda provision of the terrorist activity," stated Sultygov.

In conclusion Sultygov expressed his belief finding sources of non-government human rights organizations, including those working under cover of international status, were to be closely checked.

Source: ITAR-TASS News Agency