USA: 'Moment of reckoning' as President Trump incites violence at the Capitol

President Trump’s rejection of the U.S. election results, and incitement of his supporters has “fanned the flames of the chaos and violence”, Amnesty International said following last night’s breach of the U.S Capitol.

Bob Goodfellow, Amnesty International USA Executive Director, said:

“The President’s embrace of white supremacist and violent groups has further fanned the flames of the chaos and violence we witnessed today, putting human rights and the rule of law at grave risk in the United States.

"All U.S. officials must respect, protect, and fulfill human rights, including to be free from violence, intimidation and racism.

“Amnesty International works for a world where all those in power respect the law, meet their human rights obligations, and are held to account when failing to do so. Across the world, we have witnessed the dire consequences of government officials who spread false information and incite racist or political violence to stay in power.

“This is a moment of reckoning for the United States. President Trump has repeatedly encouraged violence and disorder by his supporters affecting journalists, activists, faith communities and others. These are not the actions of a head of state who has an obligation to ensure the safety of all people under his jurisdiction. All public officials must condemn words and actions that fuel hatred and intimidation.”