Democratic Republic Of Congo
Human Rights Watch on Tuesday asked DR Congo authorities to immediately free two civil society activists arrested a year ago during a pro-democracy workshop.
The group said the arrest of Fred Bauma and Yves Makwambala on March 15 last year was part of a growing government crackdown on those speaking out against President Joseph Kabila’s bid to extend his stay in power beyond a constitutional two-term limit, ending December 19.
“The authorities should immediately drop the baseless charges and release Bauma, Makwambala, and other activists and politicians held solely for peacefully expressing their political views,” a statement said.
The pair were arrested along with at least two dozen other people including Senegalese and Burkinabe activists and an American diplomat during a workshop on good governance in Africa.
Go to video
Another Nigerian socialite Cubana Chief Priest charged for throwing money in air
Go to video
Senegal seizes nearly 1,140kgs of cocaine
01:55
Two armed groups in the DR Congo pledge to better protect civilians
Go to video
Prosecutors allege South Africa's Parliament speaker took $135,000 and a wig in bribes
Go to video
Stanis Bujakera: Congolese journalist convicted of spreading false information to be freed
Go to video
New suspect charged in disappearance of South African girl