EQUATORIAL GUINEA: RELEASE DETAINED HUMAN RIGHTS DEFENDER

His Excellency,

I am writing to raise deep concern for arbitrarily detained human rights defender, Joaquín Elo Ayeto, known as Paysa, who has not been seen or heard from in over a year.

Since his transfer to Oveng Azem prison, on August 13, 2024, Joaquín Elo Ayeto has been held in incommunicado detention with his family left not knowing if he is dead or alive. A couple of months ago, a relative traveled almost 400 kilometers to see Joaquín Elo Ayeto but was denied entry on arrival and told Oveng Azem prisoners are not allowed visitors. The denial of access of prisoners to their families and lawyers is a violation under international law.

Also of great concern is the fact that according to his family, Joaquín Elo Ayeto was battling typhoid fever and malaria at the time of his arrest.

Joaquín Elo Ayeto has been detained several times in connection with his work as a human rights defender. His detention is arbitrary and in violation of Article 13 of Equatorial Guinea’s constitution as well as the country’s international human rights obligations, namely the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and association.

I urge you to ensure the immediate release of Joaquín Elo Ayeto as he is detained solely for the peaceful exercise of his human rights. Pending his release, I call on you to ensure that Joaquín Elo Ayeto is granted immediate access to his family, lawyers, and all necessary healthcare.

Yours sincerely,

[YOUR NAME]