The Democratic Republic of Congo's Minister of Justice, Constant Mutamba, announced the release of 527 prisoners from Kinshasa's central prison of Makala on Saturday, August 10, 2024. During the event, he also donated 2,000 mattresses to the inmates, part of a larger effort to improve detention conditions.
Mutamba emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law, stating, "A state governed by the rule of law means that everyone must be subject to the law. Your place is in your home, where you will spend the night tonight. You must return to your homes."
He reiterated his commitment to enhancing prisoner living conditions, as instructed by the Head of State. "This is what is being done. I also guaranteed that no prisoner would sleep on the floor anymore. We have provided the prison with the first batch of mattresses, and beds are currently being manufactured. Starting next week, no prisoner will have to sleep on the floor."
The Minister also announced the rehabilitation of the prison's health center and pavilions, aiming to reduce overcrowding and thoroughly renovate the facility. Additionally, he revealed plans to construct a new prison in Maluku, following a recent site visit.