Irish Family Advocates for Justice of Father Detained in Iraq

Robert Pether, an Australian citizen, has been detained in Iraq for nearly four years following a contractual dispute tied to his work at Iraq’s Central Bank. His family, particularly his son Flynn, recounts the harrowing journey filled with legal challenges and emotional turmoil. The United Nations has deemed his detention arbitrary, and despite advocacy efforts from the Irish and Australian governments, Mr. Pether’s health is declining as new charges emerge against him.

The plight of Robert Pether, an Australian citizen detained in Iraq for nearly four years on fraud charges, highlights ongoing concerns regarding arbitrary detentions. Mr. Pether, an experienced mechanical engineer, had been working on a project for Iraq’s Central Bank when a dispute over payments led to his arrest in April 2021 alongside Egyptian engineer Khalid Radwan. According to legal representatives, both men are effectively hostages in a contractual disagreement.

Mr. Pether’s son, Flynn, shared the family’s harrowing experience following his father’s arrest, recalling how his father was invited to Baghdad under false pretenses and subsequently taken into custody by the Iraqi secret service. For days, the family struggled to obtain information on Mr. Pether’s whereabouts, fearing for his life as they received no communication from him.

After more than five months, Mr. Pether and Mr. Radwan were charged with fraudulently receiving funds and received heavy fines and prison sentences after a brief deliberation by the judge. Numerous appeals have been rejected, and the United Nations has condemned the detentions as arbitrary, criticizing the lack of due process. Subsequent reports indicated violations of international law concerning their treatment.

Despite the ongoing court proceedings, Mr. Pether’s family faces mounting legal bills, prompting them to consider selling their home. Meanwhile, Flynn recounted the emotional toll their father’s absence has taken on family milestones, stating that important events have transpired without Mr. Pether’s presence. In January 2023, hopes for his release were dashed as new charges related to money laundering emerged.

The Irish and Australian governments are actively involved in seeking Mr. Pether’s release, with Ireland providing consular support due to his family’s Irish citizenship. Flynn stressed the need for accountability, asserting that Iraq must adhere to international obligations regarding due process and judicial fairness. The family continues to fight for justice, emphasizing that the substantial evidence supporting Mr. Pether’s innocence has consistently been disregarded.

As Mr. Pether’s health declines while incarcerated, there are concerns regarding his ability to access necessary medical care. Flynn, who is now studying mechanical engineering, balances academic responsibilities with advocacy efforts to secure his father’s release. Family members remain committed to pushing for change while navigating their challenging circumstances, seeking increased support from the international community.

The ongoing case of Robert Pether underscores the critical issues surrounding arbitrary detentions and the need for adherence to international law. His family faces significant challenges, both emotionally and financially, as they strive for his release. With growing concerns regarding Mr. Pether’s health and continued legal battles, immediate and sustained diplomatic efforts are essential to ensure justice is served and that the rights of the detainees are upheld. The family’s determination, despite ongoing hardships, highlights the resilience required in such difficult situations.

Original Source: www.rte.ie