ANSWER TO CORRESPONDENTS BY MR. LE DZUNG, THE SPOKESMAN
OF VIETNAM’S MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS ON 14th APRIL 2004

Question: The reports of deathes range from a few to 400 (alleged by the Montagnard Foundation). Human Rights Watch, citing eyewitness reports, also says some protesters were “beaten to death” on April 10 at Phan Chu Trinh Road outside Buon Ma Thuot. I need however a categorical denial from your ministry if there are indeed no deaths as a result of the protests this weekend?

Answer:

According to competent agencies in Daklak province, there is no one beaten to death in Buon Ma Thuot as reported by Human Rights Watch. We strongly reject this information.