RONGELAP ATOLL LOCAL GOVERNMENT Republic of the Marshall Islands Senator Jeton Anjain Mayor Willie Mwekto MAJURO OFFICE: P.O. Box 1006 Mayuro, Marshall island 96960 a7 ep Telephone: 3285 June 27, 1988 Henry I. Kohn, M.D. Rongelap Reassessment Project 1203 Shattuck Avenue Berkeley, CA 94709 Dear Dr. ¥ Kohn: On April 25, Mayor Mwekto and I wrote you regarding the Rongelap Reassessment Project Preliminary Study saying you had performed "a great service on behalf the Rongelap people. Today, I write you with a very different message. The manner in which this study is now being conducted is unacceptable. This study with each passing day, has less and less credibility in our eyes. Congress mandated this study to be independent. Congress for a review of DOE's 1982 Radiation Study -- We asked independent of DOE -- and the Compact sets forth the terms and conditions of that "independent" review. Based on a review of actions of the "Kohn (independent) Study" taken to date, it is now evident that the "independence" of this study has been compromised. Since the hearing before the Appropriations Committee in late April, this study has been changed. It's tone and direction have been altered. It's purpose now appears to be different than it was when the study was initiated. I am writing you at this time in the hopes that actions can still be taken to restore credibility and integrity to this vital report. In 1984, I and others testified before Congressman Seiberling regarding the 1982 DOE report and the general circumstances on Rongelep Atoll. Subsequently, I met privately with the Chairman to discuss the matter. that something must be done. Seiberling recognized Congress mandated the independent study in section 103(i) of the Compact. A statement regarding the purpose of the study is found in Public Law 99-239 which says, in part: 90006491 84