Reflections on Independence Day

Posted by MacDood
Comment: Happy 1984. It is the 100th birthday of George Orwell

link
I think Independence Day is a good day to reflect upon the fact that my once great nation is getting ready to murder its prisoners of war. President Bush has selected six prisoners from the war in Afghanistan to stand trial in secret "military tribunals", at which they may face the death penalty. One of the hallmarks of our justice system is the requirement that the accused must be permitted to confront the witnesses against them. Yet, when classified evidence is presented in these "tribunals", the proceedings will be closed to the defendants and their civilian attorneys. They will be allowed military attorneys who will be permitted to participate in the classified sessions, but these will be appointed United States military officers, who can hardly be expected to be representing the interests of the accused. [Kuro5hin.org]