The Democratic Republic of Congo's government has taken a significant step towards uncovering the truth behind the violent incidents that occurred during a march on September 15. The Minister of Justice, Guillaume Ngefa, has ordered a judicial inquiry into the events, which were marked by clashes, injuries, and arrests in Kinshasa and other cities. The inquiry aims to establish the facts, determine the circumstances, and identify those responsible for the violence.
The September 15 march was organized by the Coalition Article 64 (C64), a group that sought to denounce attempts to modify the Constitution and protest a proposed law on a referendum. Despite an agreement with the city authorities on the route, the march turned violent, with clashes reported in several areas, including Limete. The C64 had assured that the march would be peaceful, but the events that unfolded told a different story.
The inquiry ordered by Minister Ngefa will investigate all aspects of the incidents, including acts of violence, injuries, destruction, allegations of deaths, and arrests. The objective is to gather evidence and determine the responsibilities of those involved. The ministry has emphasized that the inquiry will not prejudge the outcome of the procedure and that all individuals involved will be treated in accordance with the Constitution and laws of the Republic.
The events of September 15 have been marked by conflicting accounts of the violence and its consequences. The C64 reported at least one death and several injuries and arrests, while the authorities presented a different toll. Human rights organizations, including the AJDDH, have called for an independent investigation into the violence and arrests. The inquiry ordered by Minister Ngefa is expected to bring clarity to the events.
The DR Congo government has faced criticism for its handling of the September 15 march. Some opposition leaders have accused the authorities of laying a trap for the marchers, while the government has disputed these claims. The conflicting accounts have contributed to the uncertainty surrounding the events.
The judicial inquiry is a crucial step towards establishing the truth and holding those responsible accountable. The investigation will be conducted in accordance with the law, and its findings are expected to be made public. The DR Congo government has emphasized its commitment to upholding the Constitution and the rule of law.
The inquiry will be led by the Procureur général près la Cour de cassation, who will be responsible for gathering evidence and determining the responsibilities of those involved. The ministry has assured that all individuals involved will be treated fairly and in accordance with the law. The outcome of the inquiry is expected to bring closure to the events of September 15 and provide a measure of justice to those affected.
Key points
- DR Congo's Justice Minister Guillaume Ngefa orders a judicial inquiry into violent incidents during a September 15 march.
