A Ugandan lawyer has initiated a lawsuit against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) government, alleging severe human rights abuses within the country’s prison system.

Specifically focusing on recent atrocities at Makala Central Prison in Kinshasa. The case highlights alarming conditions in Congo’s overcrowded and violent prisons, which have recently come under international scrutiny.

In September 2024, Makala Central Prison became the site of a tragedy when an attempted mass escape resulted in a violent crackdown. During the chaos, over 260 female inmates were reportedly sexually assaulted by both inmates and guards. As the situation escalated, prison authorities resorted to using live ammunition to prevent inmates from fleeing. According to reports, this resulted in at least 129 inmates being killed, drawing significant criticism from human rights organizations and sparking calls for accountability.

Conditions in Makala Prison: Overcrowding and Neglect

Makala Prison, designed to house around 1,500 inmates, has been holding over 15,000 people, making it severely overcrowded and unsanitary. Conditions within the facility have deteriorated significantly, with inadequate medical care, limited access to basic sanitation, and an alarming lack of oversight, contributing to a culture of violence and abuse.

[td_smart_list_end]Government Accountability

The Ugandan lawyer filing the lawsuit argues that the DRC government, led by President Felix Tshisekedi, has failed in its duty to protect inmates, particularly the vulnerable female population in its custody. The legal action demands justice for the victims of these abuses and calls for reforms to improve prison conditions across the DRC.

International Implications

The issue has attracted international attention, especially as it coincides with a recent visit by President Tshisekedi to Uganda, where he met with Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni at State House Entebbe on October 30, 2024. The legal action not only underscores Congo’s prison crisis but may also place additional pressure on the DRC government to address human rights abuses within its detention facilities.