Sierra Leone’s Former Defense Minister Remains In Detention - 2003-05-30

Sierra Leone’s former defense minister, Hinga Norman, is being held by the United Nations Special Court for Sierra Leone. Mr. Norman was indicted last month for what the court calls is his role in the country’s ten-year civil war. Recently, Mr. Norman’s defense lawyer told the press that he is sick and his condition is deteriorating. David Hecht, the information officer for the UN Special Court, visited Mr. Norman’s cell today and told English to Africa reporter Josephine Kamara that he is in good health. Mr. Hecht also says contrary to recent press reports that Mr. Norman is on a hunger strike, he began the fast as a protest but now it is a religious fast. He says the other prisoners are in good spirits and have all been allowed to talk on the phone and have family members visit them.