News: The Congolese government’s statement regarding the position of Western embassies against the lifting of the moratorium on capital punishment in the DRC
In a meeting that took place recently in Kinshasa, the Congolese government expressed its disagreement with the joint declaration issued by the embassies of Canada, Switzerland, Norway and the United Kingdom concerning the lifting of the moratorium on the death penalty in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The Deputy Prime Minister of Foreign Affairs, Christophe Lutundula, made this disapproval clear to the representatives of these countries, affirming that the reinstatement of the death penalty is a necessary decision to fight against insecurity and acts of banditry in the country .
Western embassies formally opposed this decision, arguing that the application of the death penalty goes against human dignity and that there is no conclusive proof of its deterrent effectiveness. They also underlined the risk of irreversible judicial error in the event of a death sentence.
However, the Congolese government remains convinced of the need to use capital punishment as a means of deterrence, particularly against acts of treason within the armed and security forces. According to the Congolese authorities, the lifting of the moratorium aims to attack the roots of insecurity and banditry present in the country.
Despite these explanations, criticism and disapproval continue to arise following the decision to rehabilitate the death penalty in the DRC. It is evident that this issue raises intense debates and raises questions about the values and principles inherent in justice and human rights.
The Congolese government’s position might well be seen as a controversial decision, but it highlights the complex challenges the country faces in terms of security and justice. It is crucial to continue dialogue and reflection on this burning issue, taking into account diverse points of view and seeking lasting solutions to ensure justice and security for all.