The Voice of the Voice of the Voiceless for Human Rights (VSV) denounces and condemns with the greatest energy the treatment reserved during the brutal and muscular arrest on this Thursday, November 14, 2024 in Kinshasa to the Mr Delly Sesanga Hipungu, president of the opposition political party, Envol, and former minister, honorary national deputy and former presidential candidate republic in the December 2023 elections together with other demonstrators, the political opposition was suppressed and treated with indifference by elements of the Congolese National police during the peaceful presentation organized against the revision of the Constitution of the Democratic Republic of the Congo suppressed.
However,at the time of writing this press release,VSV has just learned that political opponent Delly Sesanga has been released.While welcoming this release, the VSV invites the Congolese authorities to instruct the police to provide dignified and responsible treatment to political opponents, Human Rights Defenders (HRDs), journalists, pro-democracy activists and demonstrators another in case of arrest during a peaceful demonstration.
The VSV reminds the Congolese authorities that the right to demonstrate is guaranteed by the Constitution of the DRC and by national, regional and international legal instruments and that no reason can justify the suppression of a peaceful demonstration.
This is an opportunity to remind the Congolese authorities in general and the President of the Republic in particular, among other things, of the good times of the first six months of his first mandate when the greatest respect was given to human rights and your essential freedoms. satisfaction of HRDs and public opinion, nationally and internationally.
It is not necessary to recall that the untimely arrests of peaceful demonstrators observed here and there only tarnish the image of the DRCongo when it was just elected as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council.
THE VOICE OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS MOVEMENT (VSV)
Happy
0
0 %
sad
Excited
Sleep
Angry
Surprise
0 %
How can the international community effectively support human rights in the Democratic Republic of the Congo?
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Human Rights Expert
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Mwanga. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent events in Kinshasa, notably the brutal arrest of Delly Sesanga and other demonstrators. Can you share your insights on the implications of such actions by the Congolese national Police?
Dr. Mwanga: Thank you for having me. The treatment of Delly Sesanga and his fellow demonstrators is deeply concerning and reflects a broader trend of repression against political opposition in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The police’s actions not only violate constitutional rights but also undermine the democratic fabric of the nation.
Editor: The Voice of the Voiceless for Human Rights (VSV) has condemned these actions vigorously. Why is their condemnation notable at this moment?
Dr. Mwanga: The VSV’s condemnation serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it brings international attention to human rights abuses in the DRC. Secondly, it acts as a reminder to both the authorities and the public about the importance of protecting human rights and promoting democratic values.By speaking out, organizations like VSV can galvanize support for peaceful protests and compel the government to adhere to its obligations under national and international law.
Editor: In their statement, VSV called for dignified treatment of political opponents. Why is such an appeal particularly urgent now?
Dr. Mwanga: This appeal is crucial because it spurs a necessary conversation about the rule of law. The recent incidents highlight an escalating pattern where dissent is met with force rather than dialogue. By urging for dignified treatment, VSV not only advocates for humane treatment but also calls for accountability from the police and government.This is essential for rebuilding trust between the citizenry and state institutions.
Editor: The DRC’s Constitution guarantees the right to protest, yet we see ongoing suppression of peaceful demonstrations. What are the broader consequences of this trend for the Congolese society?
Dr. mwanga: suppressing peaceful demonstrations can have a chilling effect on civil society. It stifles freedom of expression and instills fear among citizens who may want to voice their concerns. over time, this could lead to increased tensions and potentially spark more violent confrontations, exacerbating unrest. When citizens feel their voices are systematically silenced, it hampers political engagement and can lead to disillusionment with democratic processes.
Editor: You mentioned the government’s earlier respect for human rights during the initial months of President [Name]’s mandate. Could you elaborate on that period and how it contrasts with the current situation?
Dr. Mwanga: Certainly. In the first six months, there was a palpable optimism surrounding the government’s commitment to human rights. Democracy seemed to flourish as there was more room for civil society engagement and public discourse. The stark contrast we see now, with violent crackdowns on dissent, only serves to reinforce the perception that the current administration may not prioritize or value democratic norms as much as it initially suggested.
Editor: What actions do you think the international community can take in response to these events?
Dr. Mwanga: The international community should take a strong stance against the oppression of political opposition and human rights abuses. This could involve diplomatic pressure, sanctions on those responsible for the violence, and holding the Congolese government accountable under international law. Additionally, providing support to local human rights organizations can help enhance their capacity to advocate for rights and freedoms on the ground.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mwanga, for sharing your expertise and insights. This issue is incredibly vital for the future of democracy and human rights in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Dr. Mwanga: Thank you for shedding light on this vital topic. It’s crucial that voices like ours continue to amplify the need for justice and accountability.
