Statement Text:
I met with former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz in his prison on this day, January 6, 2025, and he stated the following:
- He categorically denied refusing to meet with doctors and medical specialists.
- He affirmed his respect and appreciation for them, stating that he received them warmly despite his health condition. He added that the meeting was cordial, with both sides having the opportunity to express their perspectives.
- He informed the doctors of the deterioration of his health condition, pointing out that a prior medical assessment, conducted under state supervision, had not been acted upon.
- Former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz reaffirmed his full commitment to the findings and recommendations of the latest medical assessment.
- He urged the doctors not to allow themselves, under any circumstances, to be exploited to play a role contrary to human, ethical, and professional values. He emphasized that repeatedly subjecting him to harmful medical imaging and diagnostic procedures without implementing the resulting recommendations serves no purpose in itself.
He believes that the intent behind such practices is to prolong his deteriorating health condition according to an agenda that he does not wish for the doctors to be used to support.
He also mentioned that the doctors’ visit occurred a week after he began suffering from his illness.
Finally, he reiterated his commitment to the findings of the latest medical assessment and renewed his respect and appreciation for the doctors and specialists.
These are the words of former President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz as conveyed to his defense team member, Dr. Abdel Rahman Ahmed Taleb Zarroug.
This statement is to be widely disseminated and shared with the media at the request of my client.
Dated:
January 6, 2025
