A week after launching the registration of political and opinion prisoners in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the National Oversight Council for the Agreement and Electoral Process (CNSA) emphasizes that this initiative applies to all eligible individuals. The Council underscores a fundamental principle: justice is universal and applies to everyone.

This move aims to strengthen the measures of de-escalation that the CNSA views as essential before the expected inclusive dialogue in the DRC. The Council intends to compile a list to be submitted to President Félix Tshisekedi, enabling him to take action ahead of the national dialogue between Congolese stakeholders.

Justice knows no boundaries

The CNSA has established clear criteria, including a review of cases for individuals whose names may appear on its list, with potential amnesty in mind.

Among the prominent figures mentioned are Aubin Minaku and Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, respectively Vice President and Permanent Secretary of the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD), linked to former President Joseph Kabila. Both could be included in the CNSA’s list.

“Within 48 hours of arrest, individuals must be brought before their natural judges. Reports indicate some have spent over six months in detention,” states Joseph Olenghankoy, CNSA President. He adds, “This is a clear violation of rights. Justice is blind. Those entitled to it must receive it. Our duty is to present these concerns to the authority with signing power to secure their release and pave the way for meaningful dialogue among Congolese.”

PPRD backs CNSA’s move for cadre release

The political family of Aubin Minaku and Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary has welcomed the CNSA’s initiative.

“If this CNSA initiative leads to the release of our detained comrades, we can only commend it. Any effort aimed at securing the freedom of our colleagues—Aubin Minaku, Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, Dunia Kilanga, Parole Kamizelo, and others—deserves our full support,” affirms Lucain Kasongo, a PPRD cadre.

Justicia ASBL, a human rights organization, recently submitted a list of nearly 100 individuals deemed political and opinion prisoners to the Minister of Justice.

Death sentences complicate de-escalation efforts

The list also includes high-profile figures sentenced to death, such as former President Joseph Kabila and Corneille Nangaa, coordinator of the AFC/M23 rebellion. Timothée Mbuya, Coordinator of Justicia ASBL, argues that annulling these sentences is critical to fostering trust. “A political decision must be made to overturn convictions, particularly against former President Joseph Kabila and Corneille Nangaa. We believe this is vital for building the political trust necessary to establish an inclusive dialogue,” he states.

The big question remains: will the CNSA’s initiative translate into concrete de-escalation measures, as calls for an inclusive dialogue grow louder across the DRC?