A message of thanks to supporters from Mohammed el Gharani

I’ve just got back from Chad where I was working with Mohamed el Gharani, who was released from Guantanamo in June. Mohamed was just 14 when he was taken to the prison, and while he is delighted to be free, sadly things haven’t been easy for him since he got out.

His family are in Saudi Arabia, and he hasn’t been able to see them since his release. The government of Chad haven’t given him a passport yet, and he’s been left on his own in a strange country as he comes to terms with his terrible experiences.

Doctors are worried about Mohamed’s health, and have recommended he travel abroad for treatment, but without a passport, it’s not been possible. The treatment Mohamed needs is not available in Chad, so it’s crucial he gets his passport soon.

We had several positive meetings with the government on this issue, and I’m happy to report that things are looking up. We are hopeful Mohamed will have a passport in the near future, and will then be able to get all the psychological and medical help he needs. In the meantime, here’s a video of him enjoying the books that Reprieve supporters sent him while he was in Guantanamo Bay.