Behind the scenes of the Kinshasa Police: reforms in sight
The first days at the head of the Police of the city of Kinshasa and the Divisional Commissioner Blaise Kilimbalimba was quick to announce drastic measures to restore order in the exercise of the security services in the Congolese capital. Among the landmark decisions, the suspension of Offices 2 and the prohibition for road traffic police (PCR) to stop drivers, except in the event of an accident. These measures aim to solve the problem of traffic jams in the city, but they also raise questions about the role and methods of police officers.
Indeed, on the ground, many Kinshasa residents and road users observe abuses committed by certain police officers, in particular those assigned to traffic regulation. What are they actually doing to regulate traffic? Are they complicit in the problems encountered or are they simply ineffective in their mission?
Despite the efforts made by the European Union through the Police Reform Support Program (PARP), some officers still seem to resist the changes needed to establish a professional and disciplined police force in the DRC. The reform process is taking time to materialize and the question of the security of people and their property remains a concern.
However, with the arrival of Divisional Commissioner Blaise Kilimbalimba, a new vision seems to be in motion and real change could be afoot. It is essential to train and sensitize police officers to the importance of their role in society, to the adoption of civic and moral values. So maybe this long-awaited reform of the Kinshasa Police will eventually bear fruit and ensure everyone’s safety.
In any case, it is crucial to continue to follow closely the evolution of the situation and the decisions taken by the new commander of the Kinshasa police. The safety and well-being of the city’s inhabitants depend on it. We hope that the measures taken will genuinely contribute to improving the situation and establishing a professional and responsible police force