Title: Persistent insecurity in South Kivu: a painful reality for the population
Introduction :
The province of South Kivu, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, faces persistent insecurity that threatens the daily life of its population. According to a recent report by the Synergy of Youth Associations for Civic and Electoral Education and the Promotion of Human Rights (SAJECEK), at least 19 people were killed by armed bandits in July. Kidnappings, attacks on homes and mob justice cases are also on the rise, reflecting a worrying climate of insecurity. It is high time that the authorities take adequate measures to guarantee the safety and well-being of the people of South Kivu.
Persistent insecurity in South Kivu:
The province of South Kivu lives under the constant threat of armed bandits and violent groups who terrorize the population. Statistics from the SAJECEK report highlight a worrying increase in criminal acts during the month of July. The murders of 19 people are a tragedy for the families and the community who have to deal with the loss of their loved ones. Moreover, the kidnapping of 17 people, against 7 the previous month, shows an intensification of this shocking practice.
Attacks on homes are also on the rise, with 28 homes targeted in July, compared to 25 in June. These attacks leave residents in a permanent state of fear and insecurity, not knowing when they might become the next victims. And unfortunately, when confidence in the authorities weakens, mob justice takes over, with 7 cases recorded in July. This form of informal justice highlights the despair and helplessness felt by the population in the face of the absence of concrete solutions to fight against insecurity.
The reminder of the authorities:
Faced with these alarming figures, SAJECEK calls on the authorities to invest more in security to guarantee the stability and well-being of the population of South Kivu. It is essential to put in place effective measures to fight armed bandits and other violent groups, in order to restore the population’s confidence in the institutions and guarantee the safety of all.
Response from the authorities:
In response to these concerns, the provincial government spokesperson, Typson Idumbo, expressed his awareness of the threats to the population and reassured that continued efforts are being made to end insecurity across the province. It is imperative that these words be followed by concrete actions, in order to restore a sense of security to the population of South Kivu.
Conclusion :
The persistent insecurity in South Kivu is a harsh reality with which the population is forced to live on a daily basis.. Murders, kidnappings, attacks on homes and cases of mob justice are all manifestations of this worrying insecurity. It is crucial that the authorities take concrete measures to guarantee the safety of the population and restore a climate of confidence. The people of South Kivu deserve to live in a secure environment where they can go about their daily activities without fear for their lives and those of their loved ones