Danish Prime Minister sued for breach of Constitution re war in Iraq

international | anti-war / imperialism | press release

Tuesday October 11, 2005 02:04

by Dr. Coilín Oscar ÓhAiseadha

Máigh Nuad, Co. Cill Dara

International media are invited to interview plaintiffs and their lawyers

Tomorrow, Tuesday 11 October 2005, at 2:00 pm, a group of Danish citizens will deliver a document to the Danish High Court (Østre Landsret, Justitskontoret, Fredericiagade 26, Copenhagen) instituting legal proceedings against Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen for breaches of the Constitution in connection with Denmark’s participation in the war in Iraq. Denmark’s participation, under American command and without a UN mandate, was based on the decision of 61 members of the parliament on 21 March 2003.

A press conference will take place immediately following the event, at 3:00 p.m. at Restaurant Kongens Have, Kronprinsessegade 13, Copenhagen K.

The Prime Minister’s decision is considered to be in breach of § 19 of the Danish Constitution, according to which the use of military force may only be applied under a UN mandate, and within the boundaries of commonly accepted international law. Furthermore, the decision is considered to be in breach of § 20 of the Constitution, as it does not fulfil the requirement of a 5/6 parliamentary majority in relinquishing sovereignty, the Danish troops having been placed under foreign command.

The plaintiffs are represented by lawyers Christian Harlang and Bjoern Elmquist.

For interviews with the lawyers or plaintiffs after the document instituting proceedings against the Prime Minister has been delivered, contact:

Tom Clark, tel. (+45) 6062 1763 (cell phone) or e-mail [email protected],

Signe Sloth Hansen, (+45) 4089 7216 or e-mail [email protected]