In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, one week after the launch of a nationwide tally of political and opinion prisoners, the National Council for Monitoring the Agreement and Electoral Process (CNSA) has underscored that this initiative applies to all eligible individuals. The Council emphasizes a fundamental principle: the law must be blind to distinctions.

This initiative is designed to support de-escalation measures that the CNSA views as essential preparation for the upcoming inclusive dialogue in the DRC. The Council aims to compile a comprehensive list to be submitted to President Félix Tshisekedi, enabling him to take action before the dialogue between Congolese stakeholders commences.

“The law knows no color”

The CNSA has established strict criteria for reviewing the cases of individuals whose names may appear on its list, with potential amnesty in mind. The Council’s president, Joseph Olenghankoy, highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that many detainees have spent over six months in custody without being brought before a judge.

“Within 48 hours of an arrest, individuals must be presented before their natural judges,” Olenghankoy stated. “What we are observing violates the law. The law must be blind to color. If someone has rights, those rights must be upheld. Our duty is to bring these concerns to the highest authority to secure their release and pave the way for constructive dialogue among Congolese.”

PPRD welcomes CNSA’s prisoner release initiative

The political allies of Aubin Minaku and Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, both prominent figures in the People’s Party for Reconstruction and Democracy (PPRD) under former President Joseph Kabila, have warmly welcomed the CNSA’s efforts.

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

Death sentences complicate de-escalation efforts

The list of individuals targeted for potential release also includes figures facing severe legal consequences, such as former President Joseph Kabila and Corneille Nangaa, coordinator of the M23 rebellion. Human rights organization Justicia ASBL has submitted a dossier to the Minister of Justice, listing over 100 individuals deemed political or opinion prisoners.

Timothée Mbuya, coordinator of Justicia ASBL, emphasized the need for political action to overturn death sentences, stating, “A political decision must be made to annul the convictions of former President Joseph Kabila and Corneille Nangaa. These measures are vital to fostering the trust required for an inclusive national dialogue.”

As calls for inclusive dialogue grow louder across the DRC, the CNSA’s initiative remains a critical step toward easing tensions and creating an environment conducive to constructive discussions.