Félix Tshisekedi’s promise to settle in Goma to closely monitor the security situation in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has raised hope among the population of this region scarred by the activities of numerous armed groups. . However, the Congolese president recently reneged on this promise, explaining that he could follow events in real time thanks to technology.
In an interview with his spokesperson, Félix Tshisekedi stressed that technology allowed him to be present in several places at the same time, without having to physically settle in Goma. As Supreme Commander of the DRC armed forces, he can follow the fighting and developments in the security situation from a distance, thanks to audiovisual devices.
This decision not to settle in Goma elicited mixed reactions. Some praise the president’s ability to stay informed and make decisions quickly, regardless of where he lives. Others, on the other hand, express their disappointment at the abandonment of this promise which represented a strong signal of solidarity towards the inhabitants of the east of the country.
It is important to note that this promise to settle in Goma was an election campaign promise by Félix Tshisekedi. He had expressed his determination to fight for the return of peace and security in the region, and to improve the lot of the Congolese. However, once in power, he realized that he could achieve these goals while remaining in Kinshasa, thanks to the technological means at his disposal.
Some critical voices argue that this decision could be interpreted as a lack of personal commitment on the part of the president towards the situation in the east of the country. However, it should be recognized that as Head of State, Félix Tshisekedi has to juggle many responsibilities and that his physical presence in Goma would not necessarily guarantee a faster resolution of security problems.
In any case, it is essential that Félix Tshisekedi remains attentive to the situation in eastern DRC and that he continues to implement concrete measures to restore peace and security. It must also ensure that the inhabitants of this region do not feel abandoned and that they receive the help and support necessary to rebuild their lives in a safer environment.
The debate around Félix Tshisekedi’s promise to settle in Goma raises broader questions about the relationship between political leaders and the populations they represent. Election campaign promises are often viewed with skepticism, but they are important in building trust and engagement between citizens and their leaders. It is therefore essential that the promises made are seriously taken into account and that real efforts are made to implement them.