DRC Releases Over 7,000 Inmates from Overcrowded Makala Central Prison

In a bid to alleviate the dire conditions at Makala Central Prison in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Justice Minister Constant Mutamba has approved the conditional release of at least 7,000 inmates. The facility, built to hold 1,500 prisoners in 1957, is now bursting at the seams with over 15,000 people, including children and women.

The notorious conditions at the prison have led to widespread suffering, with inmates forced to live in cramped cells, eat poorly, and suffer from water and respiratory diseases. Mutamba’s decision aims to reduce overcrowding and improve the well-being of those behind bars.

On Saturday, the minister approved the release of the first 421 prisoners, with a plan to release an additional 400 inmates per week. This initiative is part of a broader effort to tackle overcrowding in all Congolese prisons, with a commission established to review the cases of prisoners eligible for conditional release.

As part of the plan, Mutamba has also ordered the release of sick prisoners and minors from Makala Central Prison, and has prohibited the admission of new inmates. The ultimate goal is to reduce the number of prisoners at the facility by half.

The Democratic Republic of Congo’s government has faced widespread criticism over its treatment of prisoners, with many advocating for reforms to improve conditions and address overcrowding. This move could be a significant step towards addressing these issues and ensuring the well-being of those in the country’s correctional system.

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