The presidential candidates in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Moise Katumbi, Augustin Matata and Delly Sesanga, have come together to express their deep concern over the assassination of national deputy Chérubin Okende Senga. In a joint statement, they also denounce the arbitrary arrests and targeted assassinations of opposition members, which hinder the holding of free and secure elections.
They declare that the instrumentalization of justice and security services for political purposes is unacceptable and demand that all stakeholders meet urgently to discuss the conditions allowing everyone to exercise their political activities in peace. They also call for the opening of an independent investigation to elucidate the circumstances of this assassination and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The candidates highlight the deterioration of citizen security in the country, encouraged by impunity and the failure to respect criminal procedures. They stress the need for rapid action to put an end to this situation and guarantee the security of all political actors.
It is important to note that Chérubin Okende Senga was found dead in his car, stained with blood, in Kinshasa. His death occurred in a context where the opposition faces many challenges and where human rights abuses are increasingly frequent.
This joint statement from the candidates highlights the need to ensure a safe and fair political environment for the upcoming elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It also stresses the importance of transparency and the independence of the judiciary to shed light on crimes committed against the political opposition.
It is essential to protect the rights of all political actors and to ensure that democracy is respected in the country. This requires concrete actions to end impunity and strengthen the rule of law.
The situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is complex and requires sustained international attention. The presidential candidates, through their joint communiqué, recall that political stability and the protection of the rights of the opposition are essential elements to guarantee democratic and legitimate elections. It is time for all stakeholders to make a serious commitment to addressing these issues to allow the country to make progress towards a peaceful and prosperous future