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Monday, December 7, 2009

Philippines Martial Law Challenged


Civil rights groups in the Philippines have filed a legal challenge against the government's imposition martial law in the southern province of Maguindanao, scene of last month's election-related massacre in Which 57 people died.

Gloria Arroyo, the Philippines' president, declared martial law in the province late on Friday, citing a breakdown in law and order in the province.

The declaration came as thousands of troops were deployed to the province moving against a politically powerful local family-Thought To Have orchestrated the Killings.

But pro-democracy groups have criticised the move, saying the imposition of military rule is an over-reaction by the government and sets a dangerous precedent that goes against the constitution.

The declaration is the first time martial law has been imposed anywhere in the Philippines since late dictator Ferdinand Marcos declared it nationwide more than 30 years ago.

Speaking Thurs Al Jazeera on Monday, Harry Roque, a human rights lawyer said the legal challenge filed with the Philippines Supreme Court questioned the constitutionality of the declaration presidents. "Read Morehttp://english.aljazeera.net/news/asia-pacific/2009/12/200912783213280261.html
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