Title: The violent repression of a sect in Goma leaves seven dead
Introduction :
On the morning of Wednesday August 30, the city of Goma, located in the west of the Democratic Republic of Congo, was the scene of a deadly confrontation between the security forces and the sect called “The authentic Messianic natural faith towards nations (FNAMN)”. With a provisional toll of seven dead, including a policeman, and a dozen wounded by bullets, this event aroused the turmoil of the population. In this article, we will come back to the circumstances of this violent repression and the issues around this sect.
The context of the confrontation:
The faithful of the sect “Authentic Natural Messianic Faith towards the Nations (FNAMN)”, called the “Wazalendo”, had planned a demonstration in front of the base of the UN Mission for Stabilization in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) . This sect, led by Pastor Ephraim BISIMWA, is known for its extreme religious beliefs and practices. However, the security forces deployed significant devices to suppress this demonstration, which was considered potentially dangerous.
Violent repression:
By 4 a.m., the police and the armed forces were in position in front of the sect’s installations. Testimonies on the spot reported that shots were heard in the neighborhoods of Ndosho and Kyeshero, where the bases of the “Wazalendo” are located. The security forces opened fire, which resulted in the death of seven people, including a policeman, and left a dozen injured. There is also the death of a radio presenter belonging to the sect.
The consequences of the confrontation:
Following this violent repression, the situation in the city of Goma remains tense. Sporadic gunshots were heard near the “Wazalendo” bases in Ndosho and Nyabushongo. Testimonies mention fires, in particular that of the “Wazalendo” temple in Nyabushongo and some neighboring houses. Traffic in the city is also disrupted. The authorities have taken measures to maintain order and secure the population.
Conclusion :
The violence of the repression against the sect “The Authentic Natural Faith Messianic towards the Nations (FNAMN)” in Goma left seven dead, including a policeman, and aroused the turmoil of the population. The circumstances surrounding this crackdown and the extreme beliefs and practices of this sect raise questions about its nature and influence