April 7, 2010 - Naharnet - STL Dismisses Recent Allegations against its Spokesperson, Other Tribunal's Officials

The Special Tribunal for Lebanon on Wednesday dismissed as "totally unfounded" the recent claims about "leaks and political maneuvering by Tribunal officials."
"The President of the Tribunal Judge Antonio Cassese states that he has full confidence in the responsibility, integrity and professionalism of all staff and Judges of the Tribunal. STL Staff are recruited through an open and competitive process similar to that used for U.N. staff throughout the world. STL Judges are appointed by the U.N. Secretary-General upon recommendation of an independent, impartial, and highly qualified panel," a statement issued by STL's press office said.

"With specific reference to the Tribunal's spokesperson, the President of the Tribunal stresses that Ms. El-Issawi does not have access to information about the ongoing investigations, since she is not a staff member of the office of the Prosecutor. Thus, she simply cannot be the source of so-called 'leaks' in relation to the Prosecutor's work," the statement added.

"President Cassese finally reiterates that the Tribunal's aims are to prosecute those responsible for the attacks and to render justice in a fair and transparent process, to provide truth, peace of mind to the victims, and reconciliation to Lebanese society. The Tribunal intends to continue its search for the truth pursuant to the highest standards of justice, without bias, prejudices or any political agenda. There is absolutely no base to suggest otherwise," STL's press office concluded its statement.