News: Franck Diongo transferred to Ndolo military prison
The president of the Mouvement Lumumbiste Progressive (MLP) political party, Franck Diongo, was transferred to Ndolo military prison on Saturday July 8, 2023. The announcement was made by his legal counsel, Me John Omehata. Franck Diongo had been detained for nearly two weeks at the Anti-Homeland Military Detection (DEMIAP).
According to Me John Omehata, Franck Diongo was transferred to Ndolo military prison after a brief hearing at the Gombe garrison military prosecutor. To date, no date has been set for the public hearing regarding his case.
Franck Diongo’s detention has been described as a kidnapping by his relatives, his political party and his lawyers. The latter denounced this abduction and wrote to the Auditor General to report the situation. They also requested a hearing from DEMIAP, which was refused.
Franck Diongo had been arrested in broad daylight by the security services for unknown reasons. Since his arrest, the authorities have not communicated on his case, which adds to those of other political opponents, such as Salomon Kalonda, special adviser to Moise Katumbi, accused of attempted coup.
This situation raises concerns about respect for the rights of political opponents in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The lack of information and public hearing concerning Franck Diongo raises doubts about the impartiality and transparency of the judicial system.
It is important that the authorities take measures to guarantee the fundamental rights of all citizens and ensure a fair trial for Franck Diongo. The international community must also follow this case closely and exert pressure so that the situation is clarified and that justice is done.
In the meantime, the detention of Franck Diongo once again highlights the challenges facing political opponents in the DRC and calls for a reflection on the need to strengthen the rule of law and democratic freedoms in the country