Recent news brings us news concerning the imprisonment of journalist Stanis Bujakera in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The latter, deputy publication director of ACTUALITE.CD and correspondent for Jeune Afrique and Reuters, was arrested on September 8 for an alleged “false document”. Since then, his request for provisional release has been rejected again by the Kinshasa-Gombe Court.
Stanis Bujakera’s lawyers argued for his release, arguing that there were insufficient serious indications of guilt and that he did not pose a flight risk. In addition, they stressed that he had a known residence in Kinshasa, which would allow the justice system to guarantee his presence during future hearings. Despite these arguments, the court refused the request for provisional release.
The lawyers also requested a second opinion to clarify the contradictions in the accusation against Stanis Bujakera, in particular with regard to the prevention of the manufacture of a seal of the National Intelligence Agency (ANR). They asked the court to requisition the ANR in order to obtain the original seal of the document at the origin of his arrest. A decision on this request is expected by the end of the week.
The mobilization for the release of Stanis Bujakera continues. His fellow journalists, civil society actors as well as many Congolese and international personalities are still calling for his rapid release. Since his arrest, he has been detained in police cells before being transferred to Makala prison on September 15. His lawyers believe that his detention is irregular, especially since no decision has been taken to renew his detention.
Stanis Bujakera has been in prison for almost two months, accused of “forgery, falsification of state seals”, “propagation of false information” and “transmission of erroneous messages contrary to the law”. Despite protests and calls for his release, his situation remains uncertain and worrying.
It is important to emphasize that freedom of the press is essential for the proper functioning of any democratic society. Journalists must be able to practice their profession in a safe environment and without fear of reprisals. The detention of Stanis Bujakera highlights the challenges facing press freedom in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and it is crucial that measures are taken to ensure respect for fundamental rights and the protection of journalists in the country.
The situation of Stanis Bujakera must continue to be closely monitored, and it is essential that the international community supports efforts to secure his release and guarantee press freedom in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The defense of fundamental rights and the promotion of an environment conducive to the practice of journalism must remain at the forefront of the global agenda.