The Democratic Republic of the Congo has taken a significant step toward easing political tensions ahead of an anticipated national dialogue. The National Council for Monitoring the Agreement and Electoral Process (CNSA) has initiated a comprehensive census of political and opinion prisoners, emphasizing that justice applies to all without discrimination.
This initiative is part of broader efforts to create a conducive environment for inclusive discussions. The CNSA aims to compile a detailed list of eligible individuals, including figures such as Aubin Minaku and Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, both prominent members of the PPRD party linked to former President Joseph Kabila. The list will be submitted to President Félix Tshisekedi, who may take action to facilitate the dialogue process.
Upholding justice for all
Joseph Olenghankoy, CNSA President, stressed the urgency of addressing arbitrary detentions, stating, “Within 48 hours of arrest, individuals must be brought before their natural judges. Reports indicate many have been held for around six months without due process.” He underscored the importance of reviewing each case to ensure fairness, asserting, “Justice has no color—when rights exist, they must be upheld. Our role is to present these concerns to the authority with the power to grant freedom, paving the way for Congolese dialogue.”
Political support for the initiative
The PPRD party has welcomed the CNSA’s move, with Lucain Kasongo, a party cadre, stating, “If this initiative leads to the release of our detained comrades—such as Aubin Minaku, Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, Dunia Kilanga, and Parole Kamizelo—we fully support it. Any effort to secure their freedom aligns with our goals.”
Human rights organization Justicia ASBL has also stepped forward, recently submitting a list of over a hundred individuals it considers political or opinion prisoners to the Minister of Justice. Among those highlighted are former President Joseph Kabila and Corneille Nangaa, leader of the AFC/M23 rebellion, both currently under death sentences.
Capitalizing on trust-building measures
Timothée Mbuya, Coordinator of Justicia ASBL, emphasized the need for political measures to overturn death sentences, stating, “Nullifying convictions—particularly for figures like Joseph Kabila and Corneille Nangaa—is essential. These steps are vital to fostering the political trust required for a successful inclusive dialogue.”
The CNSA’s census represents a critical moment in the DRC’s journey toward reconciliation. Whether it translates into tangible easing of tensions remains to be seen, as calls for inclusive dialogue continue to grow across the country.
