“Fatshimetrie: Violations of rights in detention in the DRC”
In the dungeons and prisons of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the situation of arrested persons is worrying. Indeed, breaches of national and international laws are commonplace, testifying to the serious dysfunctions of the judicial system and the police in Kinshasa and throughout the country. Violations of the rights of detainees are an alarming reality, highlighted by a collective of human rights NGOs in the DRC.
Reports on the conditions of detention in prisons reveal a flagrant disrespect for the fundamental rights of arrested persons. The visits, inspections and investigations carried out confirm these disturbing findings and highlight the urgent need to act to put an end to these unacceptable practices.
In a recent joint statement, the collective of NGOs emphasizes the need to take concrete measures to guarantee respect for the rights of detainees in the DRC. Arbitrary arrests, inhumane conditions of detention, lack of fair trial and ill-treatment are all violations of international human rights standards that must be firmly combated.
To achieve this, a thorough reform of the judiciary and law enforcement agencies is essential. It is essential to ensure the training of security officers and prison staff, to strengthen control and supervision mechanisms, and to establish a culture of respect for human rights within the institutions concerned.
The National President of the Bill Clinton Foundation, Emmanuel Adu Cole, underlines the importance of establishing mechanisms for the prevention and protection of the rights of detainees in the DRC. He calls for concerted action by civil society, the authorities and the international community to ensure respect for the fundamental rights of every individual, regardless of their status.
Joseph Makuandu, rapporteur of the NGO collective, insists on the need to raise awareness among the population about their rights and to strengthen the capacities of justice actors and law enforcement to effectively combat violations of rights in detention.
In conclusion, violations of rights in detention in the DRC are a major issue that requires urgent and coordinated action by all stakeholders. The protection of the fundamental rights of arrested persons is a moral and legal imperative that must guide the action of the authorities and society as a whole. It is time to act to end impunity and ensure respect for the dignity of everyone, even behind bars.