Irish Family Advocates for Father Detained in Iraq on Fraud Charges

Robert Pether, an Australian engineer, has been detained in Iraq since April 2021 over fraudulent allegations tied to a contract dispute with the Central Bank. The family faces severe financial difficulties in their fight for his release, compounded by concerns over his health. Despite advocacy from the Irish and Australian governments, Robert’s case highlights issues of international legal accountability and human rights violations.

Robert Pether, an Australian national residing with his family in Elphin, Co Roscommon, has been detained in Iraq since April 2021. He faces charges of fraud in connection with a contract dispute during his work on rebuilding the Central Bank’s headquarters in Baghdad. The United Nations has termed his detention as arbitrary, highlighting violations of his rights to a fair trial and due process, alongside his Egyptian colleague Khalid Radwan, who is also imprisoned for the same issues.

Mr. Pether’s family has endured tremendous hardship during this time. His son Flynn recounts the circumstances leading to his father’s arrest, indicating that a meeting meant to resolve the dispute was a setup that culminated in their incarceration. After over five months without contact, both engineers were convicted in August 2021 and fined a total of $12 million, a ruling that has faced multiple unsuccessful appeals.

Despite a report from the International Chamber of Commerce affirming the central bank’s fault in their case, the family has not seen favorable developments. Desree Pether, Robert’s wife, has tirelessly worked to secure his release, but the family’s financial situation is precarious due to accumulating legal expenses estimated at €120,000, forcing them to consider selling their home.

Flynn Pether, now in university, reflects on the numerous life milestones he has had to navigate without his father, expressing his emotional struggles while trying to maintain hope for Robert’s return. The family had been optimistic about a potential release in January 2023, which was dashed as new charges of money laundering were introduced soon after.

The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs is involved in advocating for Mr. Pether’s release along with the Australian government. Nevertheless, Flynn noted that Iraq has yet to recognize international judgments concerning his father’s situation. Furthermore, concerns regarding Robert’s deteriorating health, specifically relating to melanoma and lack of proper medical care in prison, pose additional risks to his well-being.

With the upcoming court hearing concerning the new charges, the family fears for Robert’s future, noting the consistent neglect of evidence proving his innocence. Flynn emphasizes the need for accountability from Iraq, maintaining that their situation essentially equates to a life sentence if ignored any longer. The family continues to call for broader support in their quest for justice, asserting that Mr. Pether’s case is fundamentally one that would be dismissed in any country other than Iraq.

In conclusion, Robert Pether’s prolonged detention in Iraq amidst unresolved contract disputes has caused immense suffering for his family, particularly regarding financial strains, emotional challenges, and concerns for his health. The family’s unwavering quest for justice is hindered by legal hurdles and a lack of international accountability. Key stakeholders, including the Irish and Australian governments, continue to advocate for his release, yet the outcome remains uncertain as new charges loom over his case. This persistent struggle underscores the need for international awareness and intervention in cases of apparent arbitrary detention.

Original Source: www.rte.ie