Protests are being held around the world today on the fifth anniversary of the opening of the U.S. prison at Guantanamo Bay. In Washington, a nonviolent direct action is planned outside the federal court. Meanwhile, in Cuba the first-ever international delegation of former prisoners, families of current prisoners, U.S. lawyers and human rights activists will protest today in front of the gates of Guantanamo. In Britain, dozens gathered in London Wednesday to call for the release of Guantanamo prisoners. Ten-year-old Anas el-Banna called for the release of his father, British resident Jamil el-Banna, and family friend Bisher al-Rawi.
Anas el-Banna: “My dad has been away for four years. It has been a very difficult time for all of us. Is there any justice in this world, can help my dad and also Uncle Bisher? My dad is a human, even though he didn’t have a British passport. Where is the human rights?”
Both el-Banna and al-Rawi have been held at Guantanamo since 2002.