Congo: Repression of Civic Space Undemocratic

Repression

The detention of human rights defenders by the authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) completely goes against the laws of the country, further sparking concerns about the repression of the nation’s civic space.

Development Diaries reports that Jack Sinzahera and Gloire Saasita have been held by the DRC authorities since 01 August, 2024, following their criticism of the government’s ‘state of siege’ in eastern provinces.

It is now three weeks after their arrest and neither of them has been brought before a judge which goes against the laws of the country. Congolese law requires that they be charged to court within 48 hours of an arrest.

‘Human Rights Watch is deeply concerned for the safety of activists Jack Sinzahera and Gloire Saasita’, Deputy Africa Director at Human Rights Watch (HRW), Carine Nantulya, said in a statement.

‘Congolese authorities should release them and stop using the ‘state of siege’ to crack down on the rights to free expression and association’.

Since President Félix Tshisekedi declared martial law in North Kivu and Ituri provinces in December 2023, the military has taken over civilian authority in both provinces.

Armed groups continue to attack civilians with little protection from the Congolese army despite the ‘state of siege’.

The military and police have used martial law to curtail freedom of expression, put down peaceful demonstrations with lethal force, and arbitrarily detain and prosecute activists, journalists, and political opposition members.

Under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Congo is a party, certain rights may be suspended under a state of emergency but must be tailored to the ‘exigencies of the situation’ and be lawful, necessary, and proportionate, including when martial law is in effect.

Also, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, which Congo has ratified, does not allow for suspending any of its provisions under any circumstances.

Development Diaries calls on President Tshisekedi to ensure the immediate release of Sinzahera and Saasita, along with other human rights defenders detained unlawfully.

We also urge the president to ensure the military and police carry out their duties in line with the laws of the land to protect the rights of citizens.

Photo source: HRW

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