In-depth investigation into the living conditions of prisoners at the Kinshasa Penitentiary and Rehabilitation Centre
The statements of the Minister of State for Justice that prisoners at the CPRK (Penitentiary and Rehabilitation Centre of Kinshasa) are adequately fed have been strongly contested. Indeed, according to the coordinator of the New Congolese Civil Society, Jonas Tshiombela, it is difficult to believe that prisoners are served three meals a day, when many free citizens struggle to eat properly. This controversy raises a key question: what are the real living conditions of prisoners at Makala?
Indeed, it is essential to look into the situation of prisoners, who also have fundamental rights that must be respected. Although deprivation of liberty is a consequence of the acts committed, this cannot justify the failure to respect the human dignity and fundamental rights of prisoners. The former central prison of Makala, supposed to be a rehabilitation center, seems to have become a veritable hell for its occupants.
It is therefore imperative that the Congolese authorities pay particular attention to this issue. Prisons must not be places of suffering and humiliation, but establishments where the rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners are truly taken care of. It is essential to guarantee decent detention conditions, including adequate food, health care and access to education and vocational training.
Beyond declarations and controversies, it is time to take concrete action to improve the situation of prisoners in the Democratic Republic of Congo. NGOs, civil society organizations and human rights defenders must continue to highlight violations of prisoners’ rights and advocate for better care of their well-being.
In a democratic society that respects human rights, the issue of living conditions in detention cannot be relegated to the background. It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure that even those deprived of their liberty are treated with dignity and humanity. Prisoners also have rights, and it is time to fully recognise and respect them.