The case of the illegal detention of eleven people in connection with the death of President TSHISEKEDI’s bodyguard raises crucial questions regarding the respect of fundamental rights in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The African Association for the Defense of Human Rights (ASADHO) has reacted strongly to this situation, highlighting the flagrant violations of the constitution and laws in force.
The deprivation of liberty of these individuals for four months without access to their relatives or legal assistance constitutes a serious violation of their fundamental rights. Indeed, Article 18 of the Constitution guarantees the right of persons in police custody to contact their family and a lawyer, which was not respected in this specific case. In addition, the failure to respect the legal period of forty-eight hours of police custody is a flagrant violation of the law.
ASADHO also highlights the failure to present these persons to a competent judicial authority, which reinforces the illegality of their detention. These arbitrary practices go against democratic principles and the rule of law, thus compromising the credibility of the Congolese judicial system.
It is imperative that the President of the Republic take urgent measures to put an end to these human rights violations. ASADHO recommends the immediate release of the detainees or their transfer to a competent judicial authority, as well as sanctions against those responsible for these arbitrary acts.
This case highlights the persistent challenges facing the Democratic Republic of Congo in terms of respect for fundamental rights and the rule of law. It is crucial for the authorities to guarantee respect for individual freedoms and ensure the proper functioning of judicial institutions to ensure fair justice for all citizens.
In conclusion, this case highlights the need for in-depth reform of the Congolese judicial system and increased vigilance to prevent abuse of power and human rights violations. Only a resolute commitment to justice and democracy will build a better future for all citizens of the Democratic Republic of Congo.