Ottawa to Stop Saudi Arabia From Beheading Canadian

The Canadian government is seeking clemency for a Canadian, Mohamed Kohail from Montreal, who was convicted for murder in Saudi Arabia. After his conviction, the Saudi authorities had issued an edict to behead him. National Post

OTTAWA -- The federal government is seeking clemency for a young Canadian man sentenced to death this week in Saudi Arabia, the Prime Minister's Office confirmed Wednesday.

Mohamed Kohail, 23, of Montreal, along with Saudi friend Muhanna Ezzat, 22 were sentenced on Monday to be executed -- by having their heads cut off with a sword.

They have 80 days to appeal their death sentences and the Canadian government has said it is prepared to help Kohail with an appeal.

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The Saudi government claims Mohamed Kohail and his friend killed another young man, Munzer Haraki, in January 2007 after Mr. Haraki tried to pick a fight with Mohamed's brother, Sultan.

Sultan, 17, has been charged for the alleged murder of Mr. Haraki and is out on bail awaiting his trial date. He also could receive the death sentence if found guilty.

Both brothers have Canadian citizenship and both say they were coerced into confessing their guilt.

A relative reached in Saudi Arabia said the trial was unjust and the court refused to hear all of the defence witnesses.