Iraq
Shoe-thrower sentence reduced to one yearPosted Apr 21 2009
A Baghdad appeals court reduced the jail sentence of journalist Muntazer Al-Zaidi from three years to one year, according to Reporters Without Borders. Zaidi had been arrested in December for throwing his shoes at then-U.S. President George W. Bush.
Reporters Without Borders has commended the move. “This positive decision is a sign of progress towards a judicial system that is balanced and understanding,” Reporters Without Borders said. “The courts have finally recognized that Zaidi acted in a particular war context in which many crimes have remained unpunished. We continue to call for his release.”
Zaidi may be released as early as Sept. 14, with time off for good behavior, the organization reported.
More information
- Reporters Without Borders