Every American should oppose the directive by President Bush allowing the government to try non-citizens accused of terror-related crimes in military tribunals rather than civilian courts. This directive comes after the recent order allowing the government to eavesdrop on client-lawyer conversations.

The new order permits the government to try in a military court any citizen accused of engaging in acts designed to have "adverse effects on the United States, its citizens, national security or economy" and anyone accused of "knowingly harboring" such persons. Such proceedings could not possibly constitute a fair trial or afford a reasonable chance for an effective defense.

Military tribunals would authorize secret trials without the requirement of a unanimous verdict, even in situations where the defendant could face the death penalty. Allowing the government to eavesdrop on client-lawyer conversations would severely damage the right of defendants to adequate counsel.

It is imperative that the government knows our objection to these unconstitutional moves. In our fight against terrorism, our rights must be held supreme.

- Aref A. Assaf, Denville