Kathmandu— Four activists from Palestine Action, Charlotte Head, Samuel Corner, Leona Kamio, and Fatema Zainab Rajwani, are appealing their 'terrorism' convictions after being sentenced in June for damaging an Israeli arms factory near Bristol. The activists were found guilty of criminal damage with a terrorist connection following the August 2024 raid on Elbit Systems UK affiliate. Their appeal argues that the conviction violated human rights laws and set an excessive precedent.

Human Rights Concerns

Supporters and legal experts have raised concerns about the ruling, arguing it sets a dangerous precedent for future cases. Shahd Hammouri, a lecturer in international law at the University of Kent, stated that if uncontested, this judgment will mark a departure from the rule of law and could affect others protesting against violations of international law.

Sentencing Details

The activists received varying sentences: Head and Kamio were given five years each; Corner was sentenced to seven years and eight months for criminal damage and grievous bodily harm without intent; Rajwani, the youngest at 21, received four years and eight months. The appeal argues that these sentences violated Article 7 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) as Palestine Action was not a proscribed organisation at the time.

Impact on Activists' Lives

The mothers of Kamio and Rajwani expressed pride in their daughters but also concern about the future. Sukaina Rajwani said her daughter may face decades of struggle for freedom, while Emma Kamio noted that Leona would be 50 years old when she finishes her sentence. Activists are subject to notification requirements for 15 years upon release and face enhanced scrutiny long after prison.

Political Context

The case gained prominence in June when Head’s lawyer, Rajiv Menon KC, was accused of contempt of court by Justice Jeremy Johnson. In June 2025, the UK banned Palestine Action as a 'terrorist' organisation, equating it with groups like al-Qaeda and ISIL (ISIS). Civil liberty organisations and UN experts have criticised this ban as an overreach.

The appeal is expected to be heard in the coming months. The activists argue that their conviction was politically motivated and violated human rights laws.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

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Originally published on abcnews.com.np.