Civil society in the Beni territory reacted to the holding of the round table on the state of siege in North Kivu and Ituri. In a statement, civil society warned participants against appointing special commissioners to head these two provinces. According to civil society, the wish of the local population remains the lifting of this exceptional regime and the return to a civil administration.
Richard Kirimba, first vice-president of civil society in the territory of Beni, warned against politicians and some sons of the province who support the continuation of the state of siege despite its visible weaknesses. Civil society warns against any attempt to appoint general commissioners to replace those elected by the population to lead these provinces. She fears that this will further politicize the issue to the detriment of the general interest.
The state of siege was introduced in May 2021 to combat growing insecurity in North Kivu and Ituri. However, insecurity persists, notably with the activism of the ADF and local armed groups. This situation divides public opinion, some are calling for the state of siege to be lifted while others are asking for a return of power to civilians.
The round table initiated by President Félix Tshisekedi aims to find a solution to this controversy. It is essential to take into account the concerns of civil society and to work for the general interest. The appointment of special commissioners should be carefully assessed to ensure effective and legitimate civil administration in these provinces.
It is crucial to find a balance between the need to fight against insecurity and respect for democratic principles