Press review of Thursday August 17, 2023: state of siege in North Kivu and Ituri
The Kinshasa newspapers devoted their editions of Thursday August 17 to the analysis of the conclusions of the round table on the evaluation of the state of siege in North Kivu and Ituri.
The article in the newspaper Le Potentiel underlines the dilemma facing President Félix Tshisekedi concerning the maintenance or lifting of the state of siege in these provinces. Some delegations from North Kivu, Ituri and South Kivu are calling for this measure to be lifted, saying that the population is suffering and wants to return to a normal life. However, the newspaper also highlights the abuses of power attributed to the state of siege regime, which limits political participation and electoral activities. The final decision therefore rests with President Tshisekedi, who will have to show discernment to favor peace.
L’Avenir reports that the participants in the round table presented three options to President Tshisekedi: maintaining, lifting or requalifying the state of siege. The newspaper stresses that the decision now belongs to the Head of State, while stressing that many voices are calling for the lifting of the state of siege.
La Prospérité highlights the government’s satisfaction with the results of the state of siege, which has restored security in North Kivu and Ituri. The Minister of Communication affirms that progress has been made, in particular with the reopening of roads and the resumption of commercial activities. However, La Tempête des Tropiques emphasizes that despite these advances, violence persists and insecurity remains a concern. The newspaper also expresses fears about a possible increase in insecurity if these regions were stripped.
In summary, President Tshisekedi’s decision regarding the state of siege in North Kivu and Ituri raises many debates and expectations. Between the will of the population to return to a normal life and the need to guarantee security, the president must make a delicate choice to ensure peace in these tormented provinces