DRC: Opposition seeks justice over deathly protests

By Godfrey Olukya

ARU, Democratic Republic of Congo (AA) - A major opposition leader on Wednesday called for top officials to face justice over "crimes against humanity" including the death of 32 people during last week's protests against President Joseph Kabila.

"I have instructed the secretary general of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress to seek justice against the perpetrators of the killings that took place during the recent demonstrations in Kinshasa," said a statement issued by the UDPS leader, Etienne Tshisekedi, who is also the chairman of the coalition of opposition parties against Kabila's extending his stay in power.

Tshisekedi said he petitioned the general prosecutor, saying he wanted certain ministers, and senior police and defense officials to be tried for crimes against humanity.

The officials include the deputy prime minister and minister of interior and security, Evariste Boshab, Sports Minister Denis Kimbayi Tshimpungu, Kinshasa Governor Andre Kimbuta, commissioner general of the national police, Bisen Gimana and army general Gabriel Amisi.

''I want those people to be charged with serious breaches against international instruments protecting human rights, and the constitution and laws of the Democratic Republic of Congo," he said, adding he hoped the Congolese justice would demonstrate its independence by punishing those responsible.

According to police, 32 people, including four policemen, were killed during the demonstrations that turned chaotic while 126 were injured in Beni, Kinshasa, Matadi and Goma.

The police also arrested 368 people in Bandundu, Beni, Goma, Kindu, Kisangani, Kinshasa, Matadi and Tshikapa.