In light of alarming reports regarding over 170 inmates facing death sentences transferred to Angenga prison in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Amnesty International urges immediate action. Sarah Jackson, the organization’s Deputy Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, expressed her concerns over potential mass executions and the troubling absence of reliable updates about those affected. She called upon President Tshisekedi to categorically halt any execution plans while advocating for a moratorium on the death penalty by Parliament.
The situation escalated after Justice Minister Constant Mutamba revealed that these detainees, connected to the notorious “Kulana” gangs, are possibly set to face execution as a means to curb urban violence. This tactic, however, lacks credible support and raises serious ethical concerns, especially as many individuals sentenced by military courts experienced unfair trials. Amnesty International’s longstanding opposition to the death penalty emphasizes the need for humane treatment and just legal processes.
Government actions have raised further alarm, with threats of arrest and execution looming over those suspected of gang affiliations. The disturbing history of Angenga prison, marked by deaths from starvation and disease, intensifies the urgency of action. Amnesty implores authorities to cease these damaging transfers, ensuring that imprisoned individuals remain accessible to their families and legal advocates, thereby upholding their basic rights and dignity.
Ultimately, the call to action is clear: an immediate cessation of executions and a commitment to abolishing the death penalty in the DRC must be prioritized. The voices of human rights advocates urge for justice and humane treatment amidst a backdrop of fear and uncertainty, underscoring the importance of transparency and accountability in the judicial process.
Amnesty International decries the potential mass executions of over 170 inmates transferred to Angenga prison in the DRC, advocating for an immediate halt by President Tshisekedi and a moratorium on capital punishment. Justice Minister Mutamba’s comments about tackling urban gangs raise concerns of unfair trials amidst a resurgence of the death penalty, particularly after a two-decade hiatus. The organization stresses the need for humane practices in the justice system.
In summary, the situation in the DRC calls for urgent attention to human rights and legal integrity. The potential for mass executions amidst vague information about the status of inmates offers a glaring reminder of the failings of the justice system. It is imperative for President Tshisekedi and the government to act decisively, halting these executions and ensuring fair treatment for all individuals caught in the judicial net.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has witnessed a troubling revival of capital punishment, reigniting debates around human rights and justice. Following a twenty-year moratorium, the government announced a return to executions, claiming it was necessary to combat urban gang violence. With over 170 inmates recently transferred to Angenga prison for potential execution, concerns about inhumane treatment and lack of fair legal proceedings have emerged, prompting organizations like Amnesty International to condemn such actions and call for the abolition of the death penalty.
Original Source: www.amnesty.org
