On September 12th, a landmark decision was delivered in the trial of Chairman Omali Yeshitela, Penny Hess, and Jesse Nevel, known collectively as the Uhuru 3, accused of acting as agents of Russia. The jury, after careful deliberation, acquitted the defendants on the charge of “failure to register as a foreign agent,” effectively dismissing the claim that they were operating under the influence or payroll of Russia. This charge, which could have resulted in up to ten years in prison, was a central contention of the prosecution’s case.
However, the jury found the Uhuru 3 guilty on a lesser charge of “conspiring against the U.S. government,” which carries a maximum sentence of five years. Despite this conviction, the defense and supporters of the Uhuru 3 view the acquittal on the primary charge as a significant victory, highlighting the lack of evidence linking the defendants to Russian influence.
Chairman Omali Yeshitela, speaking after the verdict, emphasized the trial’s broader implications, stating, “They could not convict us for working for anybody except black people.” This statement underscores the movement’s commitment to the liberation of African people, positioning their activities firmly within the context of anti-colonial struggle rather than foreign espionage.
Legal representatives for the defendants expressed mixed sentiments. Attorney Mutaqee Akbar, representing Jesse Nevel, affirmed the ongoing commitment to the fight for justice, indicating plans for an appeal. Leonard Goodman, attorney for Penny Hess, highlighted the confusion around the conspiracy charge, suggesting a misunderstanding by the jury regarding the necessity to prove conspiracy with Russian agents. Ade Griffin, representing Yeshitela, expressed satisfaction with the defense’s performance and the partial victory, despite wishing for a complete acquittal.
The prosecution’s case, built largely on the testimonies of FBI agents, failed to convince the jury of the Uhuru 3’s alleged ties to Russia, a point that defense attorneys argue exposes the government’s overreach in attempting to criminalize political dissent and advocacy for African liberation.
As the legal team prepares for an appeal, the focus remains on overturning the conspiracy conviction, ensuring that the Uhuru 3’s work for black liberation is not misconstrued as a threat to national security. The trial’s outcome, while not entirely favorable, has sparked discussions on freedom of speech, the rights of political movements, and the boundaries of governmental oversight over activist groups.
For further details or interviews, contact media@handsoffuhuru.org (mailto:media@handsoffuhuru.org). Stay updated on this case and related issues at handsoffuhuru.org.
– Mikal Kenyatta, AltBlackNews on AltBlackTV #ABTV
