275. Telegram From the Department of State to the Embassy in the Congo0
December 3, 1960, 1:22
p.m.
1529. Re: New York’s 1619.1 Dept agrees with SYG and USUN it important Lumumba be treated within legal framework. You authorized [Page 612] approach Kasavubu soonest and impress on him importance Lumumba’s case be handled through legal processes and that his physical treatment be as humane as is compatible with maximum security.2
Dillon
- Source: Department of State, Central Files, 770G.00/12–360. Confidential; Priority. Drafted by Michael H. Newlin of the Office of United Nations Political and Security Affairs, cleared by Ferguson, and approved by Bohlen. Repeated to USUN.↩
- Dated December 3, telegram 1619 reported that rumors were circulating in New York that Lumumba, who had been recaptured by Congolese forces on December 1, faced imminent execution. Hammarskjöld had met with Asian and African representatives to reassure them that this was not the case and had sent a letter to Kasavubu urging that due process should be observed in dealing with Lumumba. He hoped the United States would also make this argument with Kasavubu. (Ibid.)↩
- Telegram 1335 from Léopoldville, December 3, reported that Timberlake pointed out to Mobutu and Kasavubu the importance of humane treatment of Lumumba. (Ibid., 770G.00/12–560)↩