In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, one week after launching the registration of political and opinion prisoners, the National Oversight Council for the Agreement and Electoral Process (CNSA) emphasizes that this initiative applies to all eligible individuals, reaffirming that justice must be blind to political affiliations.

The move is designed to support confidence-building measures that the CNSA views as essential before convening an inclusive national dialogue in the DRC. The council is compiling a list of names to submit to President Félix Tshisekedi, enabling him to take preemptive action ahead of direct negotiations between Congolese stakeholders.

“Justice knows no color”

The CNSA has established clear criteria for reviewing dossiers, particularly for potential amnesty candidates. Among those under consideration are Aubin Minaku and Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, senior figures in the PPRD party linked to former President Joseph Kabila.

“I believe that when individuals are detained, they must appear before a judge within 48 hours,” stated Joseph Olenghankoy, CNSA president. “Reports suggest some have been held for nearly six months without due process. This violates fundamental rights. Justice is not selective—it must be applied uniformly. Our responsibility is to present these concerns to the authorities to secure releases and pave the way for dialogue.”

PPRD welcomes prisoner release initiative

Leaders of the PPRD party, including Minaku and Shadary, have publicly endorsed the CNSA’s efforts.

“If this initiative leads to the release of our detained members—Aubin Minaku, Emmanuel Ramazani Shadary, Dunia Kilanga, Parole Kamizelo, and others—we wholeheartedly support it,” said Lucain Kasongo, a PPRD cadre. “Any initiative promoting their freedom strengthens our commitment to inclusive dialogue.”

Death sentences complicate peace efforts

The CNSA’s review also encompasses high-profile cases, including those of former President Joseph Kabila and Corneille Nangaa, leader of the AFC/M23 rebellion, both sentenced to death. Timothée Mbuya, coordinator of the human rights group Justicia ASBL, argues these verdicts should be overturned to foster trust.

“A political gesture is needed to annul these sentences, particularly for Joseph Kabila and Corneille Nangaa,” Mbuya asserted. “Such measures are critical to restoring confidence and enabling the inclusive dialogue the nation urgently requires.”

As calls for dialogue intensify across the DRC, the CNSA’s initiative may prove pivotal in turning commitments into tangible steps toward national reconciliation.