Fatshimetrie, August 9, 2024 – The judicial situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo has sparked a strong reaction following the death sentence of 17 defendants for vandalizing a building by the Kinshasa-Gombe High Court. Defense lawyer Sylvain Mutombo notes a certain injustice in this case and plans to appeal to obtain a new trial and assert his clients’ rights.
Mr. Mutombo affirms that the death penalty is an extreme sentence and that he intends to fight to obtain the acquittal of the convicted defendants. He insists that his clients were not directly linked to the crime and that the court’s decision must be questioned at the appeal level.
The lawyer also emphasizes the importance of the independence and professionalism of the Kinshasa-Gombe High Court, while calling for confidence in the country’s justice system. He encourages young people to respect the institutions of the Republic and to support the President of the Republic in his actions.
This case highlights the complexity of the Congolese judicial system and raises questions about respect for the rights of the accused. It is essential that justice be rendered in a fair and transparent manner, guaranteeing everyone a fair trial and respecting the fundamental principles of democracy.
It is therefore essential that the appeal level carefully examines the elements present and takes into consideration the arguments of the defense in order to guarantee a fair and equitable judgment. As citizens, it is our duty to ensure that justice is rendered in respect of the rights of everyone, and to continue to support efforts to strengthen the independence of the judicial system in the Democratic Republic of Congo.