Findlay’s family appeals for urgent medical care after his detention

THE family of businessman Harry Findlay has appealed for urgent medical attention and fair treatment after he was detained by police, saying he has not yet been formally charged with any offence. In a statement, the family said it respects the rule of law and law enforcement agencies but urged authorities to take into account […]

THE family of businessman Harry Findlay has appealed for urgent medical attention and fair treatment after he was detained by police, saying he has not yet been formally charged with any offence.

In a statement, the family said it respects the rule of law and law enforcement agencies but urged authorities to take into account Findlay’s medical condition, which they said had previously been brought to the attention of the State through medical reports.

“Our family wishes to confirm that Mr. Harry Findlay is currently in police custody following his detention yesterday. At the time of issuing this statement, he has not been formally charged with any offence. As a family we respect the rule of law and the law enforcement agencies. The State authorities have been made aware of the seriousness of Mr. Findlay’s medical condition through medical reports and repeated requests seeking the release of his passport to enable him to travel for urgent specialised treatment, as recommended by his doctors. Despite these requests, he has been denied access to treatment. We therefore respectfully appeal that his medical needs receive urgent attention and compassionate consideration consistent with our Constitution, the law, and the humanitarian values that underpin our justice system,” the family said.

The family said although Findlay had attracted public attention over the years, he remained a law-abiding citizen entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty through the legal process.

“Beyond the public attention that often surrounds him, Mr. Findlay is first and foremost a devout husband, father and grandfather. To our family, he is a source of strength, guidance and unwavering support. Many members of the public know him through his Facebook platform, where he constantly shares his passion for entrepreneurship, business and mentorship to many young aspiring entrepreneurs. Mr. Findlay has immense love for his country and is a law abiding citizen. As a family we wish to emphasize one fundamental principle: Mr. Findlay is like every other citizen entitled to the presumption of innocence. We have confidence that the truth will emerge through the proper legal process,” the family stated.

The family further appealed for Findlay’s rights to be protected and asked the public and the media to allow the legal process to take its course.

“We respectfully appeal that Mr. Findlay’s rights be protected, and he be treated with dignity and fairness, and that any decision affecting his liberty and his urgent medical needs be made impartially, compassionately and in accordance with the law. We also respectfully ask and appeal to the public and the media to exercise restraint and fairness in their reporting, that no conclusions be drawn until the process has run its course. We ask that our family’s privacy be respected during this difficult time and that speculations be avoided while the relevant authorities carry out their responsibilities,” stated the family.

“While we respect freedom of expression, we ask that public discussions remain civil and respectful. Hurtful and abusive remarks have profound impact on our children and grandchildren, who are living through this painful experience alongside us. We remain grateful for many messages of support and prayers we have received. They have strengthened us immensely during this difficult time. We remain hopeful that justice, fairness and compassion will prevail”.

Meanwhile, police spokesperson Godfrey Chilabi has confirmed Findlay’s arrest.