Charles taylor latest news from prison
Charles Taylor, the former President of Liberia, has been serving a 50-year prison sentence at the United Kingdom's maximum-security prison, Belmarsh Prison, since 2013. Here are some of the latest news updates about him:
- Appeal Rejected: In 2020, Taylor's appeal against his conviction was rejected by the UK's Court of Appeal. The court upheld his conviction for war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the Sierra Leone Civil War.
- Health Concerns: In 2020, Taylor's lawyers expressed concerns about his health, citing reports of high blood pressure, diabetes, and other medical issues. The UK government has since provided him with medical treatment.
- Visitation Restrictions: In 2020, the UK government imposed restrictions on visits to Taylor due to concerns about his safety and the risk of him spreading COVID-19.
- International Pressure: In 2020, the Sierra Leone government and human rights organizations called for Taylor's release, citing concerns about his health and the need for rehabilitation. However, the UK government has maintained that he must serve his full sentence.
- Prison Conditions: In 2020, Taylor's lawyers complained about the conditions in Belmarsh Prison, citing overcrowding, poor sanitation, and inadequate medical care.
- International Court of Justice: In 2020, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) rejected a request by Taylor's lawyers to suspend his sentence, citing the UK's obligations under international law to enforce his sentence.
- Release Date: Taylor is currently serving a 50-year sentence, which means he will not be eligible for release until 2063, assuming he serves his full sentence.
It's worth noting that Charles Taylor's case has been the subject of significant controversy and debate, with some arguing that his conviction was unfair and that he was a victim of political manipulation. However, the UK government and international human rights organizations have maintained that his conviction was based on evidence of his involvement in war crimes and crimes against humanity.