Title: Imminent lifting of the state of siege in the DRC: What future for North Kivu and Ituri?
Introduction :
For two years, the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri in the Democratic Republic of Congo have been plagued by armed violence which has undermined the stability of the region. Faced with this situation, President Félix Tshisekedi had decreed a state of siege, an exceptional measure aimed at restoring the authority of the State. However, after evaluation, it was decided that this solution did not give the expected results. Thus, the Minister of Industry, Julien Paluku Kahongya, recently announced the imminent lifting of the state of siege.
A controversial measure:
The establishment of the state of siege in North Kivu and Ituri was a decision with serious consequences. It aimed to concentrate power in the hands of the military in order to fight effectively against armed groups and restore peace in the region. However, after two years, it is clear that the expected results have not been achieved. The population complained of abuses committed by the security forces and human rights violations. Thus, the decision to lift the state of siege is perceived by some as a relief, but also as a questioning of the effectiveness of this measure.
A future round table to find sustainable solutions:
Faced with the failure of the state of siege, President Tshisekedi decided to convene a round table in Kinshasa. This meeting will bring together the various stakeholders concerned by the situation in North Kivu and Ituri. The objective is to discuss and find lasting solutions to ensure the security and stability of the region. This initiative bears witness to the government’s desire to reassess its strategy and take into account the concerns of the population.
Reinforcement of the Congolese army:
Despite the lifting of the state of siege, the government remains determined to strengthen the capacity of the Congolese army. Over 20,000 troops are currently undergoing training in Kitona and Kamina to improve their skills and readiness for the security challenges they face. This desire for reinforcement shows the government’s determination to ensure the security and protection of civilians in the region.
Conclusion :
The imminent lifting of the state of siege in North Kivu and Ituri in the Democratic Republic of Congo marks a turning point in the management of armed violence in the region. Although this measure has shown its limits, the government is mobilizing to find lasting and effective solutions to ensure the security and stability of the population