This article presents the firm position of Jean-Claude Katende, President of the African Association for the Defense of Human Rights (Asadho), on the controversial decision taken by the Minister of Justice, Maître Constant Mutamba, to implement the death penalty against urban bandits, commonly known as “Kuluna”. This measure has angered this activist, stressing that the execution of the death penalty without an effective education and social reintegration program will not solve the problem of youth delinquency.
When addressing the issue of urban banditry and the “Kuluna” phenomenon, it is necessary to consider different perspectives, including that of education and rehabilitation. Indeed, simple repression and the application of severe sanctions are not enough to resolve the deep roots of juvenile delinquency.
Jean-Claude Katende pertinently underlines that the approach based solely on repression without offering young offenders opportunities for education and social reintegration is doomed to failure. He highlights the importance of investing in programs aimed at offering these young people a second chance, reintegrating them positively into society and enabling them to find their place in a constructive way.
It is undeniable that the fight against urban banditry requires a comprehensive approach, including prevention, repression, but above all rehabilitation measures. It is imperative to consider these young offenders as individuals in a vulnerable situation, in need of support, supervision and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
Following Jean-Claude Katende’s recommendations, it is clear that the solution to the problem of the “Kuluna” cannot be limited to repressive measures such as the death penalty. It is essential to engage in an approach that includes educational, social and reintegration actions, in order to promote a real positive transformation among delinquent youth.
In conclusion, the position defended by Jean-Claude Katende highlights the crucial importance of adopting holistic and humanist strategies to effectively combat urban banditry. Education, rehabilitation and social reintegration must be at the heart of the actions undertaken to offer a better future to young people in difficulty and to promote a more just and balanced society.