United States Department of State
Assistant Secretary for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor
Washington, D.C 20520-7802
April 24, 2007
Dear Professor Saine:
Thank you for your March 30 letter to Secretary Rice concerning the recent detention of Fatou Jaw Manneh, a U.S. legal permanent resident, in The Gambia. The United States government is deeply concerned about the welfare of Ms. Manneh and is monitoring her case closely, both here in Washington and through our Embassy in Banjul. Secretary Rice asked that I respond on her behalf.
Dr. Rice, Secretary Of State, USA
Ambassador Stafford discussed the case with appropriate government officials in the National Intelligence Agency on April 2, as well as with other government officials including Cabinet Ministers, and urged that Ms. Manneh's rights be fully respected. We are concerned that the government
apparently violated Ms. Manneh's rights upon her initial detention by waiting six days to charge her, in violation of the law requiring that individuals be informed of the charges against them within 72 hours.
Fatou Jaw Manneh, at Sukuta home
We will continue to press the government to ensure that due process is accorded to Ms. Manneh in accordance with Gambian law and have requested the U.S. Embassy to observe her trial.
As you are aware, the government's reaction to the March 2006 foiled coup plot precipitated a rapid decline in the overall human rights situation in The Gambia. Arbitary arrests and detentions have increased, and security
forces continue to harass and mistreat detainees, prisoners, opposition members, journalists, and civilians with impunity. The government has also infringed on privacy rights and restricted freedom of the press and speech.
In June 2006, The Board of Directors of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) suspended The Gambia's eligibility for assistance. The MCC based its decision on documented evidence of human rights abuses and increased restrictions on political rights, civil liberties, and press freedom, as well as worsening economic policies, and anti-corruption efforts.
We are well aware of the human rights situation in The Gambia and will keep a close eye on how this particular case progresses.
Thank you again for your concern,
Sincerely,
Barry F. Lowenkron.