Statement on the Visit of the Equatorial Guinea Delegation to South Africa

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma announced in Pretoria, today, Wednesday 19 May 2004, that a delegation from Equatorial Guinea led by Attorney-General, Jose Olo Obono paid a visit to South Africa on Monday-Tuesday 17-18 May 2004 for consultations with various government agencies regarding the imprisonment of several South Africans held in Equatorial Guinea on allegations of a coup plot.

This is sequel to an earlier request by Equatorial Guinea for South Africa to assist in ensuring the prisoners are afforded a fair trial. In this regard, the South African Government expresses satisfaction at the progress being made thus far and will continue to assist where possible.

The South African Government also facilitated a meeting between the delegation and family members of the prisoners, who were briefed on circumstances of detention of the prisoners. The Attorney-General also briefed family members of the likely date in which the prisoners will appear in court.

In this regard, the Attorney-General assured family members of their intention to hold a transparent trial in which international observers will be invited. The Attorney-General further advised family members on the procedures to be followed to allow for access to the prisoners by family members and their legal representatives.

Family members expressed their appreciation at the opportunity extended to them by the South African government to exchange views with the Attorney-General and his delegation.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
P/Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

19 May 2004