Delegation Returns with Official Commitments
A delegation representing the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and its partner organizations in the Democratic Republic of Congo has concluded a mission in Kinshasa, reporting that local authorities have formally committed to advancing the investigation into the deaths of human rights defenders Floribert Chebeya and Fidèle Bazana. The delegation, operating under the auspices of the Observatory for the Protection of Human Rights Defenders—a joint initiative between the FIDH and the World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT)—stated that officials agreed to support civil parties in their pursuit of truth and justice.
Specific Assurances on Trial and Forensics
The mission, which took place between August 17 and August 25, 2026, focused on advocating for the scheduling of a second trial regarding the case and the recovery of Bazana’s body. According to the delegation, Congolese authorities assured them that a date for this new trial would be set as soon as possible, following the conclusion of two ongoing proceedings against military generals involved in the matter. Furthermore, experts proposed conducting detailed forensic analysis on soil samples from land parcels attributed to General Djadjidja to aid in locating Bazana’s remains.
Background of the Disappearance
The case centers on Floribert Chebeya, who was assassinated, and Fidèle Bazana, who has been missing since June 2, 2010. Despite an inspection conducted by the High Military Court in November 2021 at specific sites to search for Bazana’s remains, his family continues to await definitive answers regarding his forced disappearance. The file concerning General John Numbi has already been transmitted to the High Military Court for scheduling, though no hearing dates have yet been announced.
Call for Immediate Action
The FIDH and its member organizations, including the African Association for the Defense of Human Rights (ASADHO), emphasized the urgency of fixing a trial date without further delay. They called for judgments to be rendered by default against any defendants who fail to appear. The delegation stressed the need for comprehensive scientific examination of the terrain associated with General Djadjidja to finally uncover the truth behind Bazana’s fate and provide closure to his family.
This report was produced by the HuMedia newsroom.
