DR Congo Releases 527 Prisoners Amidst Overcrowding Crisis

In a bid to address the severe overcrowding at Makala Central Prison in Kinshasa, the Democratic Republic of Congo's government has released 527 prisoners. Minister of Justice Constant Mutamba announced the move on August 10, 2024, citing the need to improve detention conditions and reduce congestion at the facility.

Credit: Prawa

During the release ceremony, Mutamba also delivered 2,000 mattresses to the prison, part of a larger order of 7,000 aimed at ensuring inmates no longer sleep on the floor. He emphasized the government's commitment to upholding the rule of law and improving prison conditions, in line with instructions from the Head of State.

The Minister revealed plans to continue releasing prisoners who have been unjustly detained, with another batch scheduled for release the following week. He also announced the construction of a new prison in Maluku and ongoing renovations at Makala, including the rehabilitation of the health center and several pavilions.

Credit: Prawa

The move comes after the government announced in July that at least 7,000 inmates would be granted conditional release to ease overcrowding at the prison, which was built for 1,500 inmates in 1957 but currently holds over 15,000 people, including children and women. Conditions at the prison are notoriously poor, with inmates facing cramped cells, inadequate food, and health issues.