The situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo is once again in the spotlight. Two Mobondo militiamen were arrested by the police. They are accused of murdering several people as part of their incursions into Kwilu province. The real leader of the militia, called “American”, would have armed them, then subjected them to superstitious practices before throwing them into the field.
Among the militiamen arrested, Mosengo Munzimba Muntu Mosi is presumed to have mutilated the bodies of two people in Misia. Kafuti Kibwa is being prosecuted on the same charge. The recent confrontation of this militia with the police forces caused about ten deaths in their camp, six were arrested.
In addition, a new Mai-Mai militia has been reported in the east of the country. The civilian populations are in danger and the security situation is most worrying. Congolese authorities have launched a tender for the design and construction of a public building in Kinshasa, as the ban on former Prime Minister Augustin Matata Ponyo’s conference in Kenge raises questions about the restriction freedom of speech in the DRC.
In addition, the HJ Foundation is mobilizing in solidarity with the victims of the recent floods in South Kivu. However, the disciplinary action taken against CML13TV and its hosts for hate speech highlights the problem of free speech in the country.
Finally, the meeting of Congolese and Chinese Heads of State makes it possible to strengthen cooperation in matters of security and defence. The Democratic Republic of Congo still faces major security challenges, however solidarity and cooperation between nations is undoubtedly the best solution to achieve lasting peace.