Title: Investigation into the assassination of Chérubin Okende in the DRC: necessary guarantees of independence and transparency
Introduction :
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the investigation into the assassination of deputy and opponent Chérubin Okende raises questions about its implementation and the guarantees of independence and transparency. As the country prepares for general elections, the importance of conducting a prompt, impartial and transparent investigation is underlined by many voices, including human rights organisations. This article examines the issues surrounding this investigation and highlights the importance of restoring trust in the current political context.
Tense political context:
The political situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo is marked by increasing tension in the run-up to the general elections scheduled for next December. The assassination of Chérubin Okende, former minister and spokesperson for Ensemble pour la République, party of Moïse Katumbi, occurs in this increasingly tense context. It is therefore crucial to ensure that the investigation into this assassination is carried out in a rapid and transparent manner in order to shed full light on the circumstances of this murder.
Call for the independence of investigators:
Several voices are calling for the independence of the investigators in charge of this case to be guaranteed. Guarantees of independence, speed and transparency are essential to restore the confidence of public opinion and political actors in the ongoing electoral process. Human rights organizations also stress the importance of bringing alleged perpetrators to justice once they are identified.
The role of international investigators:
Contacts have been established with Belgium, France, South Africa and MONUSCO to obtain expertise, particularly in forensic medicine. Some international experts are already present in the DRC and their participation in the investigation could be valuable. However, some point out that their involvement should have been earlier, as soon as the body of Chérubin Okende was discovered.
Strengthen the credibility of the authorities:
The DRC has faced numerous unsolved murders in the past, which has raised doubts about the credibility of the authorities. In the case of Chérubin Okende, the authorities have the opportunity to restore this credibility by shedding light on this assassination. It is also an opportunity for them to gain the trust of political actors and the international community.
Conclusion :
The investigation into the assassination of Chérubin Okende in the DRC is an opportunity for the authorities to demonstrate their commitment to justice and transparency. It is essential to guarantee the independence of the investigators, to carry out a prompt and thorough investigation, and to publish the final results in a transparent manner.. By restoring confidence in this process, the authorities will be able to advance political stability and ensure the smooth conduct of the upcoming general elections.