DRC: Death threats against four human rights organisations in Goma

On 24 November 2009, four non-governmental organizations based in Goma, DRC, received a letter which expressed death threats. The organizations to which the threats were addressed include the Centre for Research on Environment, Democracy and Human Rights (CREDDHO), the Association for Peasant Development Initiatives (ASSODIP), Action for Peace, Development and Solidarity (ASODP), and Social Action for Peace and Development (ASPD).

Further Information

The letter, sent by email, threatened members of the four organizations very clearly: "You persist ... Apparently our first message did not tell you much. There will be silence forever. Let us do our busness [sic]. Attention. You are all still very young. Mind you calm your children. We know what you do."

The letter is signed by the nickname Baobab33. The first message mentioned in the letter refers to the first threatening letter received by the same organizations two years ago, in 2007.

According to reports, the person or group who sent the threatening letter could be part of a rebel faction operating in the region. The organizations believe that the letter is specifically related to their fight against impunity, and in particular their cooperation with the International Criminal Court.

Front Line urges the authorities of the Democratic Republic of Congo:

1. Carry out an immediate, thorough and impartial investigation into the threats against human rights defenders' and members of CREDDHO, ASSODIP, ASODP and ASPD with a view to publishing the results and bringing those responsible to justice in accordance with international standards;

2. Guarantee in all circumstances the physical and psychological integrity and security of all members of the aforementioned organizations;

3. Ensure in all circumstances that human rights defenders in the DRC can carry out their legitimate work in human rights work without restrictions or fear of reprisal.