State of siege in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: A controversial decision with disastrous consequences
The state of siege established in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has provoked fierce controversy and had disastrous consequences for the country’s security situation. This decision taken in a cavalier manner by the President of the Republic, without any operational plan, showed the disorder which reigns at the top of the State.
Initially intended to eradicate the negative forces present in certain provinces, the state of siege has unfortunately weakened the pillars of state sovereignty and led to an increase in crime. Instead of pacifying the region, this totalitarian measure plunged North Kivu and Ituri into even greater chaos, favoring the rise of M23 and CODECO.
Since its establishment in May 2021, attacks have been perpetrated by the M23, resulting in the takeover of large territories by this armed group. For their part, the members of CODECO have intensified their criminal actions. The toll is catastrophic, with many casualties, severe economic and political restrictions that have suffocated towns such as Bunia, Beni, Butembo, Sake and Goma, and a growing number of displaced people left to fend for themselves.
The state of siege, an alien idea coming from partners of the regime, turned out to be a trap aimed at weakening the local administration. Implemented hastily and in violation of the Constitution, it was used as an instrument of repression against political dissidents, while the regime collaborated with aggressive military forces. Ironically, the negative forces supposedly being fought have become objective allies of the regime, with some FDLR members integrated into the Republican Guard in Kinshasa and Lubumbashi.
The state of siege gave the government exorbitant powers to silence any opposition to the Sacred Union. MPs and local leaders opposed to the abuse of power and the deterioration of security have been arbitrarily arrested.
Initially scheduled for 30 days, the state of siege dragged on, causing enormous damage. The consequences are innumerable: illicit enrichment, plunder of resources, border crossings and increased crime. This situation has deteriorated security in the region and disrupted peace.
Faced with this reality, the organization of a round table by Prime Minister Sama Lukonde seems at once surreal, inappropriate and revolting. This amounts to giving a banquet to the victims of irrational security policies and chaotic management of the situation. It is incomprehensible that the government prefers to organize false consultations rather than definitively repeal the state of siege.
The responsibility for these failures rests on the shoulders of the government of Sama Lukonde. The consequences of these disastrous decisions cannot be blamed on local notables, who are also victims of this chaotic security situation.
It is time to end the state of siege and seek real solutions to restore peace and stability in the country. It is time for the government to take responsibility and stop looking for scapegoats. The Congolese people deserve real security and stability, not mock deliberations that only add to the suffering that already exists