Protesters Charged as Terrorists Await Government Action in El Salvador

In El Salvador, thirteen organizers and community members are being charged under the country's Anti-Terrorism and Organized Crime law.  They were arrested last July as they attempted to attend a forum and vigil against water privatization.  In response to outrage from members of the international community, the government released the protesters.  But the charges still remain and could carry hefty prison sentences.

The Salvadorian government has until the end of today to present a case against the 13.  In a country whose social movement saw brutal repression before and during the civil war 16 years ago, this is seen as an ominous move towards once again criminalizing dissent. Meredith de Francesco has more from Suchitoto.