The case of the arrest of Pastor Daniel Ngoy Mulunda Nyanga in Zambia has sparked an outcry within the New Methodist Church, highlighting a delicate and troubling situation. The legal representative of the church was arbitrarily and brutally arrested by the Zambian police, despite his status as a political refugee registered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.
This arrest, described as unjust and violent by the religious community, raises serious questions about the respect of refugees’ rights and the legality of the procedures in force. Indeed, Pastor Ngoy Mulunda, as former president of the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI), benefits from international protection as a political refugee, which should normally protect him from any attempt to extradite him to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The extradition request by the Zambian authorities is therefore seen as a flagrant violation of human rights and international conventions on the protection of refugees. The New Methodist Church, in a strong statement, demands the immediate and unconditional release of its general superintendent, denouncing a serious attack on individual freedom and human dignity.
This case also raises concerns about the situation of refugees in Zambia and the way in which the authorities treat asylum seekers and beneficiaries of international protection. It is essential to guarantee respect for the fundamental rights of all individuals, regardless of their migration status, and to ensure that international conventions are fully implemented.
In conclusion, the arrest of Pastor Daniel Ngoy Mulunda Nyanga in Zambia reflects the urgent need to reflect on migration practices and refugee reception policies in the region. It is essential to defend the rights of the most vulnerable and to demonstrate humanity and compassion in the face of situations of distress and persecution. The release of Pastor Ngoy Mulunda is a moral and legal imperative, and any action aimed at restricting his freedom must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.