Francisco Mapanda (also known as Dago Nível Intelecto) was released from Comarca de Caquila prison on 21 November, seven days earlier than when he was due to be released. The reason for his early release is unknown.
Francisco Mapanda (also known as Dago Nível Intelecto) was released from Comarca de Caquila prison on 21 November. Franciso Mapanda was due to be released on 28 November after completing his eight month prison sentence. The reason for his early release is unknown. The prison officials have not provided any information on his release, nor was there a legal basis for this explained on the writ of release.
In his own words to Amnesty International after his release, Francisco Mapanda said:
“I am quite sure that my freedom was influenced by the international pressure from Amnesty International and other organisations. I would like to ask everyone to continue the struggle and the work for the protection and promotion of human rights. Continue the fight.”
Francisco Mapanda was following the sentencing of the 17 Angolan activists on 28 March and said out loud that “the trial is a farce”. The judge then opened a separate proceeding against Francisco Mapanda on the same day, convicted him for contempt of court (desacato) and sentenced him to eight months in prison.
Amnesty International considered Francisco Mapanda to be a prisoner of conscience, imprisoned and convicted solely for peacefully exercising his right to freedom of expression.
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