Irish Family Advocates for Father’s Release from Detention in Iraq

Robert Pether, an Australian detained in Iraq for nearly four years on fraud charges, is regarded as a victim of arbitrary detention. His family, including his wife and three Irish citizen children, faces financial strain due to legal fees in their efforts to secure his release. Despite international advocacy from both Australia and Ireland, he continues to struggle under new, serious allegations, while his health deteriorates.

Robert Pether, an Australian national, has been detained in Iraq for nearly four years following his arrest in April 2021 on fraud charges. Living in Elphin, County Roscommon with his family, Mr. Pether previously worked on a significant project for Iraq’s Central Bank. Following a dispute with the bank, he and a colleague were jailed after being accused of pilfering funds from the project. The United Nations subsequently described his detention as arbitrary.

The charges stemmed from events that unfolded shortly after Mr. Pether attended a meeting in Baghdad intended to resolve the dispute. His son, Flynn, recalls the unsettling day when his father was seized by Iraqi authorities. The family spent days without communication, fearing for Mr. Pether’s life. Their ordeal began on what should have been a simple business meeting.

The plight of Robert Pether and his family underscores the complexity surrounding international legal disputes. His family’s persistent struggle against formidable odds highlights the critical need for accountability and justice. Despite the ongoing legal battles, the advocacy efforts from both Irish and Australian governments show hope for Mr. Pether’s eventual release. The case serves as a somber reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by expatriates in foreign legal systems and the impact on their families back home.

Original Source: www.rte.ie