We in the French family have been asked why we aren’t going to Congo with Mathilde Moland and Rune Edvardsen. Joshua’s sister wanted to go and I planned to go with seaman’s priest Knut Lyngseth, who’s going to Kisangani this Sunday. But Joshua has said that he doesn’t want us to come, so we respect his decision. Another traveler, author and journalist Morten Strøksnes was as far as we’ve heard been denied entrance at Congo’s border. He is apparently on Congo’s list of spies. He is probably not more of a “spy” than our Boys!
Regarding the pardon application, that is something Josh and Tjostolv has to write themselves (even if they get help formulating etc.) Lawyer Furuholmen prepares this application in cooperation with the Congolese lawyers. I assume it’s written in French and signed by the boys. But the families can of course write and ask for pardon for the boys even if it doesn’t count as a formal pardon application.
The date for when talks of a transfer can start between Congolese and Norwegian authorities is not set. An enforceable verdict is probably not official until July 19th for civil court (?). As it seems now, talks can start in the beginning of August at the earliest (if there is an enforceable verdict). Norwegian authorities have to deal with Congolese authorities in this case. They are, after a request from Norway inviting to these conversations. We don’t know how complicated the negotiations will be.
We still haven’t received the ruling of the Supreme Court because we don’t think it’s proper to spend thousands of NOK just to buy it. We haven’t received the latest verdict yet either other than the summary we have here on our website.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Støre has spoken to the Congolese Foreign Minister on the phone today. He addressed the question of the death sentences and was assured that they will not be enforced. Støre also emphasized the Congolese authorities’ responsibility for their health and security.
In about a week Congo celebrates their Independence Day. It’s been 50 years since they got their freedom from the Belgium colonial ruling. It will be a blood stained celebration. Congo’s premier human rights advocate was shot in the capital not too long ago. There are many people, especially in the eastern parts of Congo who doesn’t have much to celebrate - among others a lot of raped women and children.
Kari Hilde French, June 23rd 2010
