A Humanitarian Step: DR Congo Frees Seriously Ill Prisoners to Alleviate Overcrowding

Tuesday 24 September 2024 - 14:25

In a move aimed at addressing the dire conditions and overcrowding in one of its most notorious prisons, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has released 1,685 "seriously ill" inmates from Makala Prison in Kinshasa. This initiative follows a tragic incident earlier this month, where 129 prisoners lost their lives during an attempted jailbreak, highlighting the urgent need for reform.

The release process began on Sunday, with a series of powerful images and videos shared by the justice ministry, showcasing the dire state of health of some of the freed prisoners. Emaciated figures, dirty bandages, and open wounds serve as a stark reminder of the suffering endured within the prison walls.

Justice Minister Constant Mutamba has taken a proactive approach, promising medical treatment for those in need and arranging government-provided buses to transport the released inmates home. His efforts also include banning the transfer of new inmates to Makala, as he strives to reduce the prison population.

With a capacity of only 1,500 inmates, Makala was reportedly holding at least 12,000 people before the recent tragedy. Former inmates describe it as a "true hell," with conditions akin to a concentration camp. Videos smuggled out of the prison reveal the stark reality of overcrowding and inadequate rations.

The authorities have long been aware of the overcrowding issue, with some officials pointing fingers at magistrates for sending suspects to prison. The DRC's legal system is notoriously slow, with cases often dragging on for years, leaving many innocent individuals trapped in a cycle of injustice.

Emmanuel Adu Cole, head of the Bill Clinton Foundation for Peace, an NGO focused on prison conditions, praised the release but emphasized the need for further action. "Makala is not a prison but a death sentence," said Stanis Bujakera, a former inmate. His words echo the urgent call for comprehensive reform to address the systemic issues plaguing the DRC's prison system.

As the DRC takes this crucial step towards humanitarian reform, the world watches with a mix of hope and vigilance, awaiting further progress in improving the lives of those behind bars.