U.S. Lawmakers Urge Action for Detained Binance Executive
At the end of a heated week, Congressman Rich McCormick urged the U.S. Department of State to intervene on behalf of Tigran Gambaryan, detained in Nigeria since February this year, who is an executive for Binance. Commenting during a hearing he attended that was organized by the Committee of Foreign Affairs, McCormick referred to Gambaryan as a “hostage” and said that there “must be immediate action” for the release of him.
Why is Gambaryan Detained?
Gambaryan had traveled to Nigeria for discussions on virtual currency policy but was arrested on charges of money laundering. While most of the conditions applied in his case, as put forward by the Robert Levinson Hostage Recovery and Hostage-Taking Accountability Act, he remains incarcerated.
Diplomatic Efforts by the U.S. and Concerns
To those questions from McCormick, Undersecretary of State Kurt Campbell acknowledged the diplomatic efforts underway and said, “We very much want to get it resolved and it is a subject of real concern”. But further detention of Gambaryan has raised questions about the effectiveness of these efforts in their regard.
Health Concerns for Gambaryan
With the start of legal and diplomatic efforts, there is growing concern for Gambaryan’s health. Reports have emerged that he suffers from serious health problems which his detention and lack of proper medical care have exacerbated. In a video recorded during a court hearing on September 2, Gambaryan is seen to stumble in his attempts to walk and to appear generally distressed.
I’m not OK,” Gambaryan said in the video, nearing tears. “Why couldn’t I use a goddamn wheelchair? This is a show. I’m innocent—why you doing this to me?”
McCormick and Lawmakers Demand Humanitarian Release
McCormick, along with other lawmakers, have pointed out Gambaryan’s failing health as another reason the State Department should speak more loudly for him. In June, Representatives French Hill, R-AR, and Chrissy Houlahan, D-PA viewed Gambaryan and reported that he had malaria and double pneumonia.
He should be released immediately on humanitarian grounds, the rest of the charges against him dismissed and be sent back to the United States where he belongs, Hill said after the visit.
Justice Plea by Family
Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki, said in a statement she was frustrated and criticized the continuing detention as inhumane and degrading. “This situation is inhumane and degrading, and I’m fed up. There needs to be accountability for this flouting of the law and for human rights”, she said.
Conclusion
As Gambaryan’s health is deteriorating very fast, Congressman McCormick and other lawmakers are pushing even harder to bring him home. So long as the lines of diplomacy are open, there is growing impatience regarding Gambaryan case.
