Title: Forces vives du Maniema warn of the worrying presence of soldiers in the Lubutu region
Introduction:
The civil society Forces vives du Maniema recently sounded the alarm about the worrying presence of soldiers in the Lubutu region. According to this citizen organization, these soldiers, who came from Kisangani to protect the Lubutu Mining Company (SOMIL), are committing abuses against the local population. This situation has caused a massive displacement of the inhabitants of the area. In this article, we will take a closer look at this situation and the consequences it entails.
Military deployment in violation of the mining code:
Stéphane Kamundala, president of Forces vives du Maniema, points out that this military deployment goes against the mining code and regulations in force. He wonders about the legality of the presence of soldiers on a mining site, when this is strictly prohibited by law. Moreover, he points to the fact that the Société Minière de Lubutu, which has been exploiting minerals for fifteen years in the region, has never signed the specifications. This situation raises questions about the management of mining activity in the region and calls for greater vigilance on the part of the authorities.
Exactions and displacement of the population:
According to Stéphane Kamundala, the presence of the military in the region has led to abuses against the local population. Residents of the village of Kaaba Kaba, located 15 kilometers from Lubutu center, were forced to flee their homes because of this massive and intimidating presence. There is an urgent need to take measures to protect the rights and safety of the inhabitants of the region, who find themselves caught in the middle of this conflicting situation.
A call to the attention of the authorities:
Faced with this worrying situation, the Forces vives du Maniema are calling on the authorities to examine this matter closely. They point out that if nothing is done soon, the Lubutu region risks suffering the same fate as Salamabila, where the military presence has also led to human rights violations and massive population displacements. It is imperative that the authorities take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the inhabitants of the region.
Conclusion:
The worrying presence of the military in the Lubutu region, denounced by the Forces vives du Maniema, highlights the challenges faced by the local populations. It is necessary to find solutions to put an end to abuses and protect human rights. The authorities must take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the inhabitants of the region. Compliance with the mining code and regulations is also essential to preserve fairness and transparency in the exploitation of the region’s natural resources