The news in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to be marked by the debates surrounding the lifting of the state of siege. Since May 6, 2021, this exceptional measure has been extended several times with the aim of fighting against armed groups and establishing peace and security in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri.
However, despite this decision, the security situation does not seem to have improved. On the contrary, according to Gladys Mubuya, focal point of the Women’s International League for Peace and Security (WILPF RDC) in the province of North Kivu, crime has increased in Goma and the surrounding territories. In addition, some armed groups, such as the M23, have succeeded in occupying territories and endangering the city of Goma. Harassment by men in uniform and armed is increasing, development actions are declining, massive population displacements are observed, and violence against women and children has also increased.
Faced with this alarming observation, Gladys Mubuya pleads in favor of the lifting of the state of siege. According to her, the security situation has deteriorated since the implementation of this measure, and maintaining the state of siege only aggravates the problems. It is therefore urgent to find other more effective solutions to fight against armed groups and restore peace in these regions of the country.
This position is part of the discussions and assessments conducted recently by the Congolese authorities. An evaluation round table brought together various political and civil actors to discuss the future of the state of siege and decide whether to maintain it, lift it or requalify it.
It is time to find concrete and effective solutions to establish peace and security in these provinces. The lifting of the state of siege should not be seen as an abandonment of the fight against armed groups, but as an opportunity to rethink strategies and put in place more appropriate and sustainable measures.
In conclusion, the question of the lifting of the state of siege in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a topical subject which has given rise to numerous debates. It is essential to take into account the concerns of local actors, such as Gladys Mubuya, and to find effective solutions to guarantee peace and security in these regions of the country. The lifting of the state of siege should not be seen as a capitulation, but as an opportunity to rethink actions and adopt measures more suited to the reality on the ground