Release International

The lives of three Christians still hang in the balance as the Indonesian authorities agonise over whether or not to execute them.

Fabianus Tibo, Dominggus da Silva and Marinus Riwu were to have faced the firing squad on August 12 -- but, in a dramatic turn-about, they were given a reprieve an hour before their scheduled execution. Officials said the stay of execution was granted because of 'Independence Day preparations'.

The trio were convicted of allegedly orchestrating sectarian violence in Central Sulawesi in 2000: the men and their many supporters insist they have not been given a fair trial.

The news they were due to be executed on August 12 sparked frenzied lobbying and much prayer across the world. Even Pope Benedict XVI appealed to President Yudhoyono for a reprieve on 'humanitarian grounds'.
Campaigners warn that the three men remain at high risk and are urging Christians worldwide to lobby and pray on their behalf.

Act

Send a polite fax appealing for the three men's lives to: the Indonesian President, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, fax: +62 21 345 2685 (Salutation: Dear President Yudhoyono). Or to the Governor of Central Sulawesi, Mr HL Paliuju, fax: +62 451 423 612 or +62 451 423 111 (Salutation: Dear Governor). Or to the Minister of Justice and Human Rights, Mr Hamid Awaluddin, fax: +62 21 725 0213 (Salutation: Dear Minister).

Pray

Pray for Fabianus, Dominggus and Marinus and their families as they endure this agonising wait. Pray too that those in positions of power would heed international calls for the men's reprieve -- and grant them a retrial.

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