The debate around the state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri continues to generate divergent opinions within Congolese society. Since its introduction in 2021 by President Félix Tshisekedi, this exceptional measure aimed at pacifying the eastern part of the DRC has generated mixed results. While some believe that the state of siege has made it possible to contain security threats and neutralize several armed groups, others affirm that it has favored the rise of insecurity and the proliferation of armed actors.
According to General Sylvain Ekenge, spokesperson for the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), the state of siege has made it possible to circumscribe threats and carry out military operations against local armed groups. He also points out that many members of these groups have surrendered and that collaborators of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an armed group of Ugandan origin, have been arrested.
However, the question of the extension of the state of siege is debated. Recently, a round table was organized in Kinshasa bringing together different actors from the community, such as members of the government, elected officials and representatives of civil society. The objective was to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the state of siege in order to make informed decisions. The resolutions of this round table were submitted to the President of the Republic.
It is essential to stress that the state of siege has both security and socio-economic implications. While certain military operations have restored some security in certain areas, it is essential to implement additional strategies to resolve the root causes of the conflict and to promote the economic and social development of the provinces concerned.
The question of the state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri therefore remains open and requires in-depth reflection on the part of political decision-makers, civil society actors and the population. The ultimate objective remains the search for lasting stability and genuine peace in these regions affected by armed conflict for many years