Statement From The RIBPP On Comrade Rashid's Health

This is to inform the comrades, friends, and supporters of Comrade Kevin "Rashid" Johnson and the Revolutionary Intercommunal Black Panther Party of recent updates pertaining to Comrade Rashid's health.

On Friday, July 1, 2022, Rashid contacted me to inform me of the results of a recent biopsy that had been performed the prior week. At his request, I am writing this missive to inform the public that he has prostate cancer. There were 13 samples taken from his prostate and out of those, 11 were confirmed as malignant. We are waiting to learn more about what our options are and to consult with physicians about a treatment plan.

Prison and medical officials have been aware of elevated PSA levels in Rashid's blood since at least as early as October 8, 2021 in the course of doing routine blood work as part of his chronic illness treatment plan for his hypertension. A referral to a specialist was ordered by doctor on October 26, 2021 and approved on November 1, 2021. It was never scheduled.

We understand that there will be questions and concerns around this news so Rashid will be writing something further in the near future. Additionally, the Revolutionary Intercommunal Black Panther Party wishes to extend our formal and unwavering support for our comrade and Minister of Defense and as well as those prisoners struggling with illness who do not have the platform and support that he does. We plan to use this diagnosis to highlight the inhumane treatment, conditions, and intentional medical neglect that the imprisoned routinely face and the need to overturn a system that not only allows but encourages this type of torture, exploitation, and abuse.

Shupavu wa Kirima

General Secretary, RIBPP