Félix Tshisekedi, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo, went back on his promise to settle in Goma to closely monitor the security situation in the east of the country. This region is plagued by the activism of many armed groups and periodic attacks from neighboring countries. During his election campaign, Tshisekedi affirmed his determination to bring peace and security to this part of the country.
However, in a recent interview, the President explained that thanks to technology, he can monitor the fighting and events on the ground in real time from his headquarters in Kinshasa. He thus stressed that as Supreme Commander of the armed forces, it is not necessary for him to physically settle in Goma to take effective measures.
This statement by Tshisekedi arouses contrasting reactions. Some praise his ability to use technological tools to assess the situation remotely, while others criticize this decision, believing that a physical engagement on the spot would have shown a stronger will to solve the security problems of the region.
It should be noted that this promise to settle in Goma is not the first from the Congolese President. When he took office in 2019, he had already expressed his determination to travel to the areas most affected by insecurity to listen to the concerns of the Congolese and find solutions.
Whichever approach Tshisekedi chooses, it is undeniable that the pacification of eastern DRC remains a daunting challenge. Efforts to eradicate armed groups and establish peace must be continued, whether through action on the ground or through careful monitoring of events from a distance.
Ultimately, political will and firm commitment are essential to solving security problems and improving the socio-economic situation in this battered region. Technology can be a valuable tool, but it is no substitute for actual presence and direct interaction with the affected population.
Time will tell if Tshisekedi’s decision to monitor the situation from a distance will be an effective approach to addressing the persistent security challenges in eastern DRC. In the meantime, public expectations remain high for the fulfillment of the long-awaited promise of peace and security.