Cannabis dealer Rappaz resumes hunger strike

Hemp grower Bernard Rappaz, who is convicted of cannabis dealing, has gone on hunger strike again after being returned to prison on Thursday last week.

Rappaz, from canton Valais, was taken back to jail after an appeal lodged at the Federal Tribunal in Lausanne was turned down.

The appeal asked for suspension of a prison term of five years and eight months handed down by Valais authorities until they considered a request for pardon.

Rappaz’ lawyer said on Monday there was little he could do for the time being because he did not have the full details of the Federal Court’s decision.

Rappaz, who undertook a previous hunger strike earlier this year, had been under house arrest before being taken back to prison.

The Federal Court has ruled that Rappaz may be force fed if his condition warrants it, an issue which has sparked controversy over his rights as an individual.

Shortly after being put under house arrest at the end of July, the Valais authorities charged Rappaz with other offences that allegedly took place between 2002 and 2006.

They include falsifying documents, money laundering, violation of drug laws and issues relating to social benefits.

swissinfo.ch and agencies