In a ceremony held on October 30, 2026, at the central prison in Angenga, Gemena, 40 juvenile inmates were released from detention in Sud-Ubangi province. The event was attended by provincial authorities, including the interim Governor, Professor Jean-René Galekwa Vundawe, and the provincial Minister of Justice, Maître Emmanuel Kpedto Togo. The release is part of the provincial government's initiative to free children from prison and promote social justice.
The "Zero Children in Prison" operation is a key aspect of the provincial government's efforts to uphold the rule of law and social justice, as championed by President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo. The initiative aims to provide children with a second chance and ensure they receive the education they deserve. During the ceremony, the Minister of Justice expressed gratitude to the Governor for his attention to the matter and called on partners to improve detention conditions for women and juvenile inmates.
The released juveniles were given a chance to start anew, with the Governor urging them to learn from their experiences and adopt exemplary behavior in society. The Governor also paid tribute to President Tshisekedi, whose vision for the country aligns with the provincial government's efforts. The release of the juvenile inmates is seen as a significant step towards upholding human rights and promoting social justice in the province.
The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including members of the provincial security committee, the First President of the Court of Appeal, and the Prosecutor General. The event marked a significant milestone in the provincial government's efforts to prioritize the welfare of children and promote a safer, more just society.
In an interview with the press, the interim Governor highlighted the importance of the release, stating that the children belong with their families and should be given the opportunity to contribute to the country's development. The Governor's comments underscored the government's commitment to providing a second chance for juvenile inmates and promoting rehabilitation over punishment.
The release of the 40 juvenile inmates is part of a broader effort to reform the justice system in Sud-Ubangi province. The provincial government has been working to address issues related to detention conditions, access to education, and social reintegration of former inmates. The "Zero Children in Prison" initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of many children in the province.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment to upholding the rights of children and promoting social justice in Sud-Ubangi province. The provincial government's efforts to prioritize the welfare of children and promote rehabilitation over punishment have been welcomed by local communities and human rights organizations.
Key points
- The release of 40 juvenile inmates in Sud-Ubangi province is part of the "Zero Children in Prison" initiative, aimed at promoting social justice and upholding human rights.
