She has been imprisoned in Peru for four years and nine months under cruel, inhumane and degrading conditions, without justification. Her health is impaired -- permanently, we fear. There is no basis in truth, or law, for holding her another day.

For years the government of Peru has ignored the United Nations High Commission on Human Rights, the Inter-American Human Rights Commission of the Organization of American States, President Clinton, President Carter, the U.S. State Department, the House, the Senate, major international human-rights institutions and organizations and Lori herself.

All of them have protested the denial of due process of law in the proceedings against Lori.

In this past session, 250 U.S. representatives and 23 senators demanded Lori's release. Due process requires that after four years and nine months without a proper trial, Lori must be released.

FAIR TRIAL IS IMPOSSIBLE

It is not possible for Lori to have a fair trial in Peru under present conditions. Leading international human-rights advocates have recognized that Peru's political leadership and governmental infrastructure preclude the capability of a fair trial.

According to the State Department Human Rights Report (Feb. 25), ``Proceedings . . . for terrorism in civilian courts do not meet internationally accepted standards of openness, fairness and due process.''

During the recent presidential elections in Peru, prejudicial statements were made by the president of the National Penal Superior Court for Terrorism, the president of the Superior Court of Lima, the official ombudsman of Peru, a former Peruvian minister of justice, jurists, members of the Peruvian Congress and other government officials as well.

When such high-ranking members of the Peruvian government gratuitously declare Lori Berenson guilty, it is obvious that a fair trial is impossible in Peru. It is time for Lori to be freed and returned home.

Rhoda and Mark Berenson (www.freelori.org) are Lori Berenson's parents.

Copyright 2000 Miami Herald

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