Recent news in the Democratic Republic of Congo has sparked strong reactions following the tragic death of nearly 129 prisoners in particularly shocking circumstances. The Congolese Association for Access to Justice (ACAJ) has launched an urgent appeal to the Congolese government to establish close collaboration with the MONUSCO Human Rights Division in order to identify the perpetrators of this reprehensible act.
This fact is unequivocally contrary to the fundamental principles of a rule of law. The intervention of the police, namely the Congolese National Police and the Armed Forces of the DRC, during a mass prison break attempt, was characterized by the disproportionate and indiscriminate use of lethal weapons, resulting in a disastrous human toll. The ACAJ stressed the urgency of a thorough investigation to shed light on this tragedy and to clearly establish responsibilities.
In the same vein, the Association of Friends of Nelson Mandela for the Defense of Human Rights (ANMDH) demanded independent and transparent investigations to shed light on the dramatic events in Makala. It is imperative that justice be done for the victims and that such situations do not happen again in the future.
Faced with this tragedy, Congolese civil society and the political class unanimously condemned these barbaric acts, vehemently denouncing a real massacre inflicted on the detainees. State authorities were severely criticized for their failure to protect human life and for the irresponsibility they demonstrated.
It is undeniable that such events must be taken seriously and treated with the utmost rigor. Truth and justice must be cardinal values in a democratic society that respects human rights. It is now up to the Congolese authorities to shed light on this dark affair and act accordingly so that such excesses do not happen again.
In a country where democracy and human rights are crucial issues, it is imperative that such violations do not go unpunished. The quest for justice and truth remains a categorical imperative to guarantee a better future for all Congolese citizens.