In the Central African Republic, it has been three months since opposition MP Dominique Yandocka was arrested. Detained on December 15th and placed in custody despite parliamentary immunity, Dominique Yandocka faces charges of “conspiracy and attempted coup d’état” after allegedly being caught “red-handed,” according to the prosecutor. His lawyers and family continue to demand his release, as the legal proceedings stall.
With their request for automatic release unanswered, Dominique Yandocka’s lawyers have sent a reminder to the dean of the investigating judges. They reiterate the same arguments: according to them, the prosecutor has never proven the “flagrancy” used to justify the detention of a parliamentarian, protected by immunity.
Most importantly, they demand medical care, as the MP suffers from cardiac and renal problems exacerbated by his detention, explains his daughter, Ashley Yandocka: “I request tangible evidence and, above all, support in terms of healthcare because my father is currently seriously ill due to the pressures he is facing. Therefore, I request clarification of this matter and the release of Dominique Yandocka for medical treatment.”
One of his lawyers, Me Bruno Gbiegba, was able to visit him this week and convinced him to end the hunger strike he had begun a few days earlier. A delegation from the National Assembly’s office also visited the Roux camp. When questioned by the national press on Monday, the government spokesperson declined to comment “on an ongoing legal action.” “We must go all the way to know the truth,” said Maxime Balalou.
This situation highlights the delicate balance between legal proceedings and human rights concerns in the Central African Republic, as well as the importance of ensuring access to healthcare for individuals in detention.