Repression of opponents in the DRC as the elections approach
The NGO Human Rights Watch (HRW) recently sounded the alarm about the growing repression of political opponents in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the run-up to elections. In a press release, HRW urged the Congolese government to guarantee freedom of expression and assembly for all opposition candidates and their supporters, as well as for all Congolese.
According to Thomas Fessy, senior researcher at HRW, since May there has been a wave of arrests and restrictions on the opposition, including on freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and movement. These attacks on fundamental freedoms risk aggravating an already extremely tense situation.
HRW also stresses that some demonstrations have been violently repressed or banned, and that all political parties should be able to operate freely and hold rallies without hindrance, especially in the run-up to the official election campaign.
The NGO also recalls specific cases, such as that of Moïse Katumbi who was unable to organize his tour in Kongo-Central province, or the arrest and subsequent release of Franck Diongo, leader of the opposition. HRW also points out that the circumstances of the murder of Cherubin Okende, a month ago, remain to be elucidated.
This growing crackdown on political opponents in the DRC adds to an already tense environment for journalists covering the electoral process.
It is essential that the Congolese government back down and ensure an open and peaceful political environment, allowing all political actors to express themselves freely and actively participate in the upcoming elections. Only real democracy and respect for human rights can promote a transparent and fair electoral process in the DRC.
It is the responsibility of the international community to closely monitor the situation in the DRC and to exert diplomatic pressure on the Congolese government in order to guarantee respect for the rights and freedoms of all Congolese citizens, in particular political opponents.
The DRC has a unique opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to democracy and human rights through free, fair and transparent elections. We hope that the Congolese authorities will take the necessary measures to establish a political climate conducive to respect for the rights and freedoms of all Congolese