We deeply deplore the circumstances of the arrest, trial and sentencing on February 25 of Turkmen political activist Nurberdy Nurmamedov. Once again, the actions of the Government of Turkmenistan bring into serious question its commitment to OSCE principles.

The handling of the case falls far short of any acceptable standard of judicial due process.

The trial was conducted in less than a day, with only a few family members permitted to attend.

International observers including OSCE representatives and U.S. and EU member-country diplomats were denied access to the courtroom.

The charges of hooliganism and attempted murder were based on a purely verbal altercation Mr. Nurmamedov had with a business partner. The business partner himself stated that he had not been threatened or assaulted.

In addition, Mr. Nurmamedov's son, who was never arrested or formally charged, was called as a witness at his father's trial.

The son was then informed at the trial of his father that he was a co-defendant and was summarily sentenced to two year's of hard labor.

The cases of Mr. Nurmamedov and his son are unfortunate examples of the government of Turkmenistan's continued disregard for internationally-recognized human rights.

We believe that Mr. Nurmamedov deserves a new and fair trial, conforming with due process principles and open to family and international observers.

We urge the immediate release of Mr. Nurmamedov's son, who was never arrested or formally charged.

The United States calls again on the Government of Turkmenistan to fully live up to its OSCE commitments and respect the rights of its citizens.