Issued by Department of Foreign Affairs
30 May 2000
On 27 May, Mrs Fatoh Mbaye, wife of Sierra Leone rebel leader Foday Sankoh travelling on an American Passport entered South Africa through Johannesburg International Airport. Mrs Mbaye had entered the country despite advice to her host by the Department of Foreign Affairs that entry to South Africa would be denied.
Since her arrival in South Africa, Mrs Mbaye has engaged in activities that are aimed at promoting aims and objects of the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) by among others issuing statements in support of the cause of her husband, Foday Sankoh. These activities are contrary to the letter and spirit of efforts aimed at creating a climate for peace and stability in Sierra Leone.
South Africa as a member of the UN is bound by decisions and protocols of this body to ensure full compliance with resolutions adopted in respect of Sierra Leone. These resolutions relate to certain elements and close associates of the rebel leader Foday Sankoh who continue to undermine peace and stability of Sierra Leone.
In this regard, and in pursuance of the overall international objective of creating a lasting and peaceful resolution of the Sierra Leone situation, the Department of Foreign Affairs in conjunction with the Department of Home Affairs hereby declares Mrs Fatoh Mbaye, persona non grata in South Africa with immediate effect.
Accordingly, Mrs Fatoh Mbaye must leave South Africa within 24hrs.
For enquiries contact Ronnie Mamoepa
Cell no: 082-990-4853