Deaths in Congo jails linked to overcrowding problem

The Makala prison in Kinshasa witnessed a tragedy when 24 prisoners died in an escape attempt after being shot by guards, with the death toll rising to 129. Some prisoners were sexually assaulted while attempting to flee. The Deputy Prime Minister described the events as ‘deplorable and unfortunate.’ Overcrowding and delays in the justice system contribute to the dire conditions in DRC prisons. The Minister of Justice has released inmates to reduce overcrowding, in response to the recent incident. He is also pushing for reforms to address corruption and improve the justice sector. However, tensions between the Minister and magistrates have intensified, with ongoing efforts to clean up the justice system.