Title: Round table on the state of siege in the DRC: What future for the security situation in North Kivu and Ituri?
Introduction :
The Congolese government has just officially announced the holding of a round table to assess the effectiveness of the state of siege decreed for more than two years in North Kivu and Ituri. The objective of this exceptional measure was to fight against the armed groups responsible for the security crisis and the numerous massacres in this region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the results provoke debate and criticism, which makes this round table all the more important in defining the future of security in these provinces.
A round table to take stock:
Prime Minister Sama Lukonde has asked the National Assembly to make the People’s Palace available to host this round table which will take place from August 16 to 18, 2023. The objective of these three days of discussions is to assess the effectiveness of the state of siege, to analyze the results obtained so far and to define the measures to be taken to improve the security situation in North Kivu and Ituri.
A controversial report:
Since the establishment of the state of siege, opinions on its effectiveness have been divided. Some civil society actors, pressure groups and some opposition leaders believe that this measure has proved flawed, highlighting the persistence of armed attacks and massacres of civilians in the provinces concerned. On the other hand, the Congolese army claims to have the situation under control, but also recognizes that much remains to be done to achieve real pacification of the region.
Crucial issues:
This round table is of capital importance, because it will make it possible to evaluate the actions undertaken so far and to propose concrete solutions to strengthen security in North Kivu and Ituri. It is essential to take into account the various factors that contribute to insecurity, such as the presence of armed groups, ethnic tensions and political and economic issues. The decisions that will be taken during this round table will have a direct impact on the lives of local populations and on the future of these provinces.
Conclusion :
The round table on the state of siege in North Kivu and Ituri represents a unique opportunity to take stock of the security situation in these provinces of the DRC. The discussions that will take place between the various stakeholders will make it possible to draw up an objective assessment of the effectiveness of the state of siege and to define the measures to be taken to strengthen security. It is essential that these decisions are taken in a concerted manner and that they take into account the needs and concerns of local populations