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MOTION FOR A RESOLUTION (2025/2797(RSP))

On arbitrary arrest and torture of Belgian-Portuguese researcher Joseph Figueira Martin in the Central African Republic

B-10-2025-0323

on behalf of The Left Group · Rapporteur: Catarina Martins

✦ In short · AI summary of this text, generated 4 Sept 2026

Written by a language model from the full text only; every figure comes from the text. The paragraph links open the paragraph a statement rests on — check the text itself before relying on it.

The resolution concerns the arbitrary arrest and torture of Belgian-Portuguese researcher Joseph Figueira Martin in the Central African Republic. It calls for his release or fair trial, investigation of torture allegations, and accountability for the Wagner Group.

Key points

  1. Calls on Central African authorities to end Joseph Figueira Martin’s prolonged detention without trial and ensure due process before an independent and impartial court.
  2. Calls on authorities to respect the presumption of innocence and legal time limits for detention; stresses pre-trial detention should be exceptional and proportionate.
  3. Considers that if authorities lack evidence after more than a year of detention, Joseph Figueira Martin should be released.
  4. Calls on judicial authorities to uphold international obligations, notably Article 14 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights on fair and timely trial.
  5. Demands investigation of torture allegations and calls for unrestricted access to medical care and protection from torture.
  6. Denounces the presence of the Wagner Group and urges holding them accountable for abuses against civilians.

Who is affected

  • Joseph Figueira Martin, a Belgian-Portuguese researcher detained in the Central African Republic.
  • Central African authorities and judicial authorities, who are called to act.
  • Wagner Group, denounced for abuses.

Figures and deadlines

  • 26 May 2024, date of detention.
  • 5 July 2024, date of transfer to Camp de Roux.
  • More than a year of detention.