On the second day of his mission in Grand Bandundu, Minister of Justice Guillaume Ngefa visited the Kikwit urban prison in Kwilu province. There, he directly interacted with the 372 inmates, including several who shared their daily challenges. The inmates' testimonies focused on access to judicial assistance and respect for defense rights. One prisoner reported never having had an attorney, while another was sentenced to 20 years and six months for stealing a phone at 17.
During his visit, Ngefa was attentive to the inmates' concerns and emphasized the need to submit their situations to the competent judicial authorities, respecting legal procedures and fundamental defense rights. The minister also clarified the separation of powers between the political and judicial institutions, stating that the minister of justice does not have the role of liberating prisoners, but rather the competent organs do.
As part of his mission to decongest the country's prisons, eleven inmates from Kikwit prison were identified as beneficiaries of release decisions taken by the competent judicial authorities. The prosecutor proceeded with the nominal call of the released inmates in the presence of Minister Ngefa. The minister reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing efforts to decongest prisons, respecting the law, the rights of detained persons, and the principle of fighting against impunity.
The exchanges also allowed for discussion of the case of inmates suffering from mental disorders and the urgency of strengthening their medical care and providing adapted support. Ngefa reiterated his desire to bring the judicial administration closer to the daily realities of citizens and people deprived of liberty. This approach aims to identify dysfunctions that hinder the proper functioning of the penal chain and prisons.
The visit is part of Ngefa's mission to assess the situation on the ground and identify areas for improvement. The minister's approach aims to make human dignity, respect for fundamental rights, access to justice, and the rule of law effective principles, even within detention centers. The situation at Kikwit prison highlights the challenges faced by inmates and the need for improved support and care.
The case of an Indian national who received a 10-year prison sentence was also raised, as well as the issue of overcrowding and inadequate conditions in prisons. Ngefa's visit demonstrates the government's commitment to addressing these issues and improving the prison system. The minister's interactions with inmates and prison authorities aim to promote a better understanding of the challenges and find solutions.
The release of eleven inmates and the minister's engagement with the remaining inmates demonstrate a step towards addressing the issues faced by prisoners in Kikwit and across the country. The situation highlights the need for continued efforts to improve the prison system, ensure respect for human rights, and provide adequate support to inmates.
Key points
- Minister of Justice Guillaume Ngefa visited Kikwit urban prison, interacting with 372 inmates and addressing their concerns.
