EXTERNAL (for general distribution)AI Index: AFR 23/04/91

Distr: UA/SC

9 September 1991

Further information on UA 294/91 (AFR 23/03/91, 30 August 1991) - Medical Concern

DJIBOUTI:Mohamed Moussa Ali ("Tourtour")

Mohamed Moussa Ali ("Tourtour"), former economic advisor to the President of Djibouti and a prisoner of conscience, was detained without charge or trial following his arrest on 8 April 1991 for calling for multi-party democracy in Djibouti. He was originally held in Mouloule military camp at Obock but, following a 24-day hunger strike, he was transferred to a clinic at Obock. Amnesty International made urgent appeals for him to be given proper medical attention which was denied him by the Djibouti authorities.

Amnesty International has now been informed that Mohamed Moussa Ali was released unconditionally on 7 September 1991. After his release he was treated at a private medical clinic. In a radio interview following his release Mohamed Moussa Ali stated that he believed his release was due to the work of Amnesty International and international pressure and he has privately thanked Amnesty International for all its work on his case.

Amnesty International has sent a message to the Djibouti President welcoming the release of Mohamed Moussa Ali. No further action by UA participants is required. Thank you to all those who sent appeals on his behalf.

(Please note on the first UA he was incorrectly referred to as Mohamoud Moussa Ali ("Tourtour"): his correct first name is Mohamed.)