"On 27 May 2002, the Special Rapporteur sent a communication to the Government concerning the dis solution of the Bar Association  (Colegio de Abogados). According to the information received, on 10 May 2002, the Minster for Justice and Religion had issued a resolution dissolving the Bar Association due to the absence of a presidential decree recognizing its creation. It was alleged that the resolution stated that this action was taken pursuant to the activities of several members of the organization that were not in accordance with the objectives of the organization and had the effect of transforming it into a platform for their political and personal views. The information also stated that the resolution of the Minister created a General Council of Lawyers, to be chaired by the Minister, which would be responsible for the preparation of a new statute to regulate the activities of lawyers and the holding of new elections for the governing council. Current members of the association could not be candidates in the election..."

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