Crown's Motion to Testify in Secret Rejected in Abdelrazik Lawsuit

Federal Court rules against closed-door testimonies, allowing public access in case of Montreal man detained in Sudan.

Federal Court Justice Patrick Gleeson denied the Crown's request to have security officials testify behind closed doors in the Abousfian Abdelrazik lawsuit.
The decision emphasizes the court's commitment to the principle of open justice, stating the evidence did not meet the high bar required to limit public access.
Abdelrazik, a Canadian citizen since 1995, is suing the government for $27 million over his alleged false imprisonment and torture in Sudan.
Four current or former CSIS employees will testify under pseudonyms and take measures to protect their identities, as per a secondary court order.
Federal lawyers deny any breach of duty of care towards Abdelrazik, rejecting claims that such breaches contributed to his alleged mistreatment.