Title: Stanislas M. Samuel, human rights defender, miraculously escapes an assassination attempt
Introduction :
In a chilling attempt to silence the voice of human rights defenders, Stanislas M. Samuel narrowly escaped a violent attack on him and his family. This tragic night of July 10 not only endangered the life of this committed activist, but also revealed the dangers faced by human rights defenders in the DRC. In this article, we examine the details of this shocking attack and argue for a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice.
The disturbing account of the attack:
It was midnight when armed men in uniform forced their way into the home of Stanislas M. Samuel. A scene of unprecedented violence ensued, with bullets being fired in all directions. His terrified wife panicked, while their 7-year-old daughter was injured in the shooting. The assailants seemed determined to eliminate Stanislas M. Samuel, seeking to force the door open to reach their target. Fortunately, the cries of neighbors alerted the attackers, forcing them to flee, after uttering death threats.
The trauma of the family and the request for protection:
Stanislas M. Samuel’s wife, still in shock from the attack, testified to the torture she suffered during the attack. The perpetrators threatened to reveal her husband’s hiding place. In an act of bravery, she claimed he was overseas on a duty assignment. Nevertheless, these threats with serious consequences persist, leaving the family in a situation of constant insecurity. She urges adequate protection to ensure their safety.
The mobilization of human rights defenders:
Faced with this barbaric attack, human rights defenders in South Kivu demand an independent investigation to identify and bring to justice those responsible for this criminal act. Stanislas M. Samuel’s colleagues also call on the international community to take firm measures to guarantee the safety of human rights defenders in the DRC. By defending the fundamental rights of individuals, these essential actors of society are too often exposed to serious dangers.
The context of Stanislas M. Samuel’s commitment:
Stanislas M. Samuel is a respected and recognized human rights defender who is committed to the fight against rights violations in the DRC. Recently, he denounced the arbitrary arrests and illegal detentions of LUCHA activists and other opponents who organized a peaceful march in Kinshasa in May. His media appearance on Radio Notre Dame de Tanganyika in Uvira was closely followed by the authorities, which may have motivated this attack.
Conclusion :
The attack on Stanislas M.. Samuel highlights the deadly risks faced by human rights defenders in the DRC. This assassination attempt must not go unpunished. It is essential to open an independent investigation and to provide adequate protection to those who fight to preserve the fundamental rights of individuals. By supporting and amplifying their voices, we can help build a more just and equitable society in the DRC