In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a week after launching the census of political and opinion prisoners, the National Oversight Council for the Agreement and Electoral Process (CNSA) emphasizes that the initiative applies to all eligible individuals. The CNSA stresses a fundamental principle: justice must be blind.

This effort is part of broader de-escalation measures the CNSA views as essential before convening an inclusive national dialogue in the DRC. The Council aims to compile a comprehensive list to present to President Félix Tshisekedi, enabling him to take decisive action ahead of the dialogue between Congolese stakeholders.

“Justice knows no color”

The CNSA has established strict criteria for reviewing the files of individuals who may qualify for inclusion on its list, with the potential for amnesty in certain cases.

Among the prominent figures whose names have surfaced 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 feature on the CNSA’s roster.

“Within 48 hours of an arrest, detainees must be brought before their natural judges. Reports suggest some have spent over six months in custody“, states Joseph Olenghankoy, CNSA President, who adds that case files must be thoroughly examined. He underscores: “Justice must not discriminate. Rights are universal. Our mission is to present these concerns to the authority empowered to grant freedom, fostering an environment conducive to dialogue among Congolese citizens.”

PPRD welcomes CNSA’s initiative for cadre releases

The political circle surrounding Aubin Minaku and Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary has welcomed the CNSA’s move.

“If the CNSA’s initiative secures the release of our detained comrades, we can only commend this effort. Any initiative—regardless of origin—that seeks our colleagues’ freedom—Aubin Minaku, Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, Dunia Kilanga, Parole Kamizelo, and others—deserves our full support“, affirms Lucain Kasongo, a PPRD cadre.

Human rights organization Justicia ASBL recently submitted a list of nearly 100 individuals to the Justice Minister, identifying them as political or opinion prisoners.

Death sentences complicate de-escalation efforts

The list also includes figures under death sentences, such as former President Joseph Kabila and Corneille Nangaa, coordinator of the AFC/M23 rebellion.

Timothée Mbuya, Justicia ASBL Coordinator, argues that annulling these sentences is critical to building trust. He states: “A political measure is needed to overturn convictions, particularly against former President Joseph Kabila and Corneille Nangaa. Such actions are vital to restoring political confidence and paving the way for an inclusive dialogue.”

Whether the CNSA’s initiative translates into tangible de-escalation measures remains uncertain, as calls for an inclusive dialogue grow louder across the DRC.