DRC: Restoration of the death penalty, the government explains

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has lifted the moratorium on the death penalty, sparking criticism from various quarters. The government justifies this move as a means to «rid the army of our country of traitors on one hand and to stem the upsurge of acts of terrorism and urban banditry resulting in loss of life on the other hand».

The government could not remain silent in the face of the numerous reactions, which continue to pour in, following this decision.

While understanding the reactions of all parties involved, the Minister of Communication and Media, and Government Spokesperson, stated that the country had no choice in the face of repeated acts of treason, especially when strategies are being devised to defeat the enemy.

According to the government, this decision will be accompanied by specific guidelines to prevent arbitrariness.

A circular note from the Minister of Justice outlines the offenses or reprehensible behaviors.

 Patrick Muyaya addressed this issue during a press briefing dedicated to the missions of the Agency for the Coordination and Monitoring of collaboration agreements signed between the DRC and its partners (APCSC), held on Tuesday, March 19.

«It is not with pleasure that the Government has made this decision. In this regard, we understand their reactions, but we are in a specific context. We want to prevent deaths, Congolese deaths numbering in the millions. And if restoring the death penalty for those who deserve it is necessary to stop the millions of Congolese deaths, then we have no choice. Faced with the regular occurrence of treason when it is necessary to plan and carry out operations against the enemy, we are in government, we must take responsibility, and this decision was made for specific needs», explained Minister Muyaya.

It is worth noting that in the current war against the M23, the death penalty will now be carried out after any judicial conviction related to the following grievances: association of wrongdoers, treason, espionage, participation in armed gangs, participation in an insurgent movement, crimes against humanity, military conspiracy, and rebellion.

Jean-Robert TCHANDY