The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is again at the heart of international news following recent statements by the Front Commun pour le Congo (FCC), the opposition of former President Joseph Kabila, who strongly criticized the security policy of the Congolese government. The East and West zones are particularly targeted, as well as the capital Kinshasa.
In a statement, the FCC denounces the “notorious inability” of the government to ensure the safety of people and property. The eastern areas are described as abandoned by the power in place, particularly in view of the deployment of contingents from member countries of the East African Community which control the areas formerly occupied by the M23 terrorists. However, this deployment is extended for three months, despite the mistrust of both parties.
As for the West, ethno-community conflicts oppose the Teke-Yaka in the territory of Kwamouth, in Mai-ndombe, as well as in other provinces of the Grand Bandundu area, even reaching the outskirts of Kinshasa. According to the government, some politicians pull the strings of these conflicts for economic interests.
The FCC also deplored the instrumentalization of the judiciary and calls on the international community to be impartial in sanctioning the perpetrators of these violations.
The security situation in the DRC therefore remains fragile despite the progress that can be observed in other sectors such as education or youth entrepreneurship. Citizen movements are alarmed by the growing restriction of civic space and electoral pressure.
It is in this tense context that personalities such as Julienne Lusenge are appointed to key positions, bringing a note of hope in the representation of women in the consolidation of peace. The DRC therefore remains a complex terrain of political changes and challenges to be met.