Title: The arbitrary detention of a journalist in Kasai-Oriental: a violation of human rights
Introduction: Since Tuesday September 5, 2023, Gédéon Kabamba Miteo, journalist at Congolese National Radio Television (Rtnc) and former advisor in charge of communications for the Governorate in Mbuji-Mayi in the province of Kasaï-Oriental, has been arbitrarily detained. This situation quickly aroused indignation and protest from the Voice of the Voiceless for Human Rights (VSV), which denounced the precarious conditions of detention and the absence of family visits for the journalist. In this article we will examine the details of this case, as well as the reaction of the VSV.
Refusal to give the password to the official Facebook page of the governorate
According to information relayed by the VSV, Gédéon Kabamba Miteo was arrested and detained because of his refusal to provide the password for the official Facebook page of the governorate. However, the journalist denies any involvement in this matter, affirming that he has been disconnected from the page since the departure of Governor Matthias Kabeya and that the creator of the account is said to be in Kinshasa. He also specifies that he has no interest in keeping the password in his possession.
Arbitrary detention in precarious conditions
The VSV also raises the question of the conditions of detention of Gédéon Kabamba Miteo. According to the human rights organization, the journalist is detained in precarious conditions at the provincial police station of the Congolese National Police (PNC). His phones were confiscated, preventing him from communicating with his family and loved ones. In addition, visits from family members and loved ones are also prohibited. A situation which clearly violates the fundamental rights of journalists.
The VSV’s reaction and demands for action
Faced with this situation, the VSV spoke out to denounce and condemn this arbitrary detention. She calls on the provincial authorities of Kasai-Oriental to do everything possible to release Gédéon Kabamba Miteo unconditionally. In addition, the organization asks the authorities to contact the creator of the Facebook account to obtain the password for the official page of the governorate.
Conclusion: The arbitrary detention of Gédéon Kabamba Miteo, journalist at Rtnc, raises the question of press freedom and human rights in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Voice of the Voiceless for Human Rights strongly denounces this situation and calls for the immediate release of the journalist. It is essential that the authorities take measures to respect fundamental rights and guarantee freedom of expression in the country.