PUBLIC AI Index: ASA 26/007/2004

17 December 2004

Further Information on UA 404/97 (ASA 26/03/97, 22 December 1997) and follow-ups (ASA 26/05/98, 10 March 1998; ASA 26/11/98, 29 September 1998) Health Concern / Prisoner of Conscience

LAOS Feng Sakchittaphong (m) 62 years old ] Released

Latsami Khamphoui (m) 62 years old ]

Former prisoners of conscience, Feng Sakchittaphong and Latsami Khamphoui were released from prison at the end of their sentences in October and were reunited with their relatives when they arrived in France on 16 December. Both suffer from poor health, including heart and kidney problems and will be seeking medical treatment in France.

“Amnesty International shares in the delight of Feng and Latsami’s families and hopes that their release marks another step on the road towards the full respect of human rights for all in Laos” said Natalie Hill, Deputy Asia Director at Amnesty International.

Feng Sakchittaphong and Latsami Khamphoui were former high ranking government officials who were arrested in October 1990 for writing letters advocating peaceful political and economic change in Laos. Together with Thongsouk Saysangkhi they faced a grossly unfair trial in November 1992 on various charges including “making preparations for rebellion”, “propaganda against the Lao People’s Democratic Republic” and “libel and slander”.

The three men were imprisoned under extremely harsh conditions in a prison camp, with few family visits allowed. Thongsouk Saysangkhi died in prison in February 1998 before he could be released, having been denied adequate medical care for serious health problems. “Our hearts go out to the family of Thongsouk Saysangkhi who should also have been rejoicing today” said Natalie Hill.

Many thanks to all those sent appeals. No further action is required from the UA Network.