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Hundreds Rally in D.C. to Support Legal Rights for Gitmo Prisoners

In Washington, several hundred people rallied in favor of restoring legal rights to prisoners held at Guantanamo Bay. But San Diego Republican Congressman Duncan Hunter says that's a bad idea. Charle

Hundreds Rally in D.C. to Support Legal Rights for Gitmo Prisoners

In Washington, several hundred people rallied in favor of restoring legal rights to prisoners held at Guantanamo Bay. But San Diego Republican Congressman Duncan Hunter says that's a bad idea.  Charles Davis reports from Capitol Hill.

Habeas corpus is the legal principle that says no one may be imprisoned without first being charged with a crime. Of the over 400 people held at Guantanamo, only three have been charged with anything. At a press conference, Hunter responded to that number by arguing that all prisoners have been found to be "enemy combatants" by a military tribunal.

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Hunter : According to our Armed Services staff, 100 percent of them have had the review. So whoever gave you the information that very few of them have been brought up is wrong. They all have.

Critics say the tribunal process prevents the accused from consulting a lawyer and allows evidence that may have been obtained using torture. Legislation restoring the right of habeas corpus has been introduced in both houses of Congress, but faces an almost certain veto from President Bush.

From Capitol Hill, Charles Davis, KPBS News.