A state of siege in the provinces of Ituri and North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo was declared two years ago by President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi. The objective was to restore state authority in a region plagued by growing insecurity caused by local armed groups and foreigners from the Democratic and Allied Forces (ADF).
Unfortunately, two years later, the security situation has not improved, but rather worsened in many localities of the four out of the five territories that make up the province. In the first four months of 2023, civil society recorded at least 473 civilians killed, hundreds of houses burned down and pets looted by militiamen. This situation shows the failure of the state of siege and its impact on security.
As the second anniversary of the measure approaches, residents have expressed their wish to see the state of siege lifted and to review other methods likely to promote the return of peace. According to some residents, the military authorities in place have instead allowed the armed groups to multiply, thus showing a rather complacent attitude.
In addition to the negative impact on security, the state of siege has also had positive effects in terms of infrastructure, with the renovation and construction of several important buildings. However, this is not enough to compensate for the deterioration of the security situation.
Although the organizers of the state of siege continue to make efforts to improve the situation, civil society, citizens’ movements and Ituri MPs are still calling for the lifting of the ineffective measure. Faced with the situation, it is necessary to implement more effective measures to restore peace and security in the region.