The state of siege has been in force for more than two years in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to respond to the security problem in these regions. However, the population continues to criticize this measure, particularly in North Kivu where insecurity persists with the resurgence of the M23 war and ADF terrorism, among others.
In a press briefing this Friday, the Bishop of the Diocese of Goma, Msgr. Willy Ngumbi, recalled the concern of the Catholic Church about the security situation which has still not changed despite the measure of the state of siege. . According to him, this measure must be evaluated with a view to its lifting, because it does not meet its primary mission.
Indeed, this week, new fighting was reported in Rutshuru territory between self-defense groups [Wazalendo] and M23. The Congolese armed forces also warned of the reinforcement of M23 terrorists by Rwandan soldiers who were in training in Chanzu and in Rwanda to carry out an attack against the city of Goma.
This insecurity situation has led to intercommunal violence and banditry in the country, raising concerns about the safety of the population. Moreover, mob justice has reached a new height of brutality in Beni, raising concerns about the state of the justice system in the country.
Faced with these challenges, President Tshisekedi encourages the harmonization of investment projects to promote the development of infrastructure in the country. The Chrisnovic project also seems to be a promising initiative for the diversification of the Congolese economy.
Despite these efforts, the ruling party is threatening to boycott the upcoming elections without a consensual independent national electoral commission, raising concerns about the country’s political stability.
In sum, the security situation in the DRC is worrying, and the country’s authorities must take urgent measures to guarantee the security of the population and promote economic and political development.