In a dramatic turn of events, Congolese authorities confirmed the imminent execution of more than 170 death-row inmates.
The prisoners, convicted of armed robbery and locally labeled as “Kulunas” or “urban bandits,” have been transferred to Angenga prison.
Justice Minister Constant Mutamba stated that 70 of the convicts were relocated Sunday, adding to 102 already in the northern Mongala province.
These men, aged 18 to 35, face execution without a specified timeline, heightening tension within the nation.
Public reactions remain divided, with citizens lauding efforts to curb crime while activists voice concerns over potential human rights violations.
“We support this decision. It will restore safety in cities plagued by night-time robberies,” said Fiston Kakule from Goma.
Conversely, human rights advocate Espoir Muhinuka warned against possible extrajudicial killings under the guise of justice.
Muhinuka emphasized that addressing urban crime requires tackling root causes like poverty, unemployment, and social exclusion.
The Democratic Republic of Congo abolished the death penalty in 1981, only to reinstate it in 2006.
The last recorded execution occurred in 2003, but recent years have seen rising death sentences for military offenses.
In 2024, the government signaled a renewed use of capital punishment, raising debates over its ethical and practical implications.
As Congo navigates this contentious path, international eyes remain fixed on its commitment to fair trials and human rights.