The situation that recently shook Makala prison has sparked a wave of indignation and reactions both nationally and internationally. The tragic events that occurred during the night from Sunday to Monday, resulting in the death of 129 prisoners, are unacceptable and raise many questions about respect for human rights and justice in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The reaction of the “New Congolese Civil Society” (NSCC) and the “Network of Human Rights Defenders and the Fight against Corruption” (RDDH-LC) demanding a thorough investigation and the identification of those responsible for this tragedy is legitimate. It is crucial that light be shed on these events, that justice be rendered to the victims, and that responsibilities be established in order to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The call by the Congolese Association for Access to Justice (ACAJ) for collaboration between the government and human rights organizations to shed light on this case is an essential step to ensure transparency and impartiality in the investigations.
The reaction of the political class, including the vehement denunciations describing the events in Makala as assassination, massacre and carnage, highlights the need for a real awareness of respect for human life and the integrity of each individual, regardless of their social status or situation.
It is imperative that state authorities take concrete measures to guarantee the safety of prisoners and respect for their fundamental rights, in accordance with international human rights standards.
Ultimately, this Makala tragedy must serve as a catalyst for deep and lasting reforms in the Congolese prison system, in order to prevent such violations from happening again in the future. Now is the time for action, responsibility and solidarity with the victims and their families, so that justice is done and human dignity is preserved in all areas of society.