The arrest of Salomon Idi Kalonda, Private Advisor to Moïse Katumbi Chapwe, generated a series of reactions in the Congolese socio-political sphere. The NGO Voix des Sans Voix (VSV) has expressed its deep concern over the tough methods used by certain elements of the security services, a few months before the presidential and legislative elections scheduled for December 20, 2023 in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a statement published on Wednesday, May 31, the VSV denounces the unjustified abduction and detention of Mr. Salomon IDI KALONDA, as well as the violation of his fundamental rights during his detention. She is also concerned about the determination to silence or intimidate political opponents, when their place is important in democracy and their criticisms useful for improving the way in which power is managed.
The VSV recommends the realization of an independent investigation to establish the responsibilities and punish the authors of this kidnapping, the unconditional release of Mr. Salomon IDI KALONDA and the end of the violations of fundamental freedoms. For her, the objective is to preserve the democratic advances already made in the country.
Thus, 17 days before the holding of an opposition demonstration, which brings together several personalities, namely Martin Fayulu, Moise Katumbi, Delly Sesanga and Augustin Matata, all “united to carry out joint actions with a view to obtaining the ‘organisation of elections within the constitutional deadline’, the political and social situation is increasingly tense in the DRC.
Indeed, these personalities call on the population “to resist and exercise citizen vigilance”. They undertake to continue the fight for a genuine rule of law and appeal to civil society. The May 20 march focused on several demands, including growing insecurity, high costs of living, the misery of the people and the chaotic electoral process.
We can remember that the authorities have not yet reacted, but civil society is mobilizing to maintain pressure on the power in place. Time is running out for the DRC, which must organize elections on time to avoid plunging into a difficult post-election situation