Written question asked by David Drew (Labour) on Thursday, 31 January 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 4 February 2008. It was answered by Meg Munn (Labour) on Thursday, 7 February 2008 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Democratic Republic of Congo: Civil Rights

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations the Government plans to make to the Government of Democratic Republic of Congo on its treatment of members of civil society in areas within its control, with particular reference to the military judge Major Mbokolo Wawa, his assistant Captain Kawende, and journalists Maurice Kayombo and Rene Kabala Mushiya.

Answer: We are aware of the cases brought against judge Major Mbokolo Wasa, his assistant Captain Kawende, journalist Maurice Kayombo and Rene Kabala Mushiya. We are following their status carefully and are working in collaboration with partners to ensure they are treated fairly and in accordance with the law.We continue to remind the Congolese Government in the strongest terms of its responsibilities to protect human rights, in particular to protect freedom of expression, including criticism of the government and the President, and to ensure the right to a free and fair trial.

Secondary information