The killings of civilians in Goma on August 30, 2023: the need for accountability
In a tragic event that shook the city of Goma, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, on August 30, killings of civilians were perpetrated by the army. Faced with this dramatic situation, the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Congo (MONUSCO) insists on the need for those responsible for these acts to be held accountable, regardless of their rank.
The head of MONUSCO, Bintou Keita, stressed during a press conference that the mission welcomed the actions taken by the Congolese government, such as the establishment of a high-level interministerial commission and the opening of trials against certain army officers. However, it is essential that all those implicated in these violations of the right to life are held accountable.
According to the latest official reports, 51 people lost their lives during these tragic events, and many others were seriously injured and hospitalized. The seriousness of the situation raises fears of further deterioration if measures are not taken quickly.
MONUSCO therefore urges the Congolese authorities to take the necessary measures to prevent such a tragedy from happening again in the future. The population of Goma, already traumatized by these killings, deserves to be protected and to live in safety.
Military justice is already in action, with the appearance of six people, including two high-ranking army officers, accused of crimes against humanity, willful destruction and incitement to acts contrary to discipline. However, it is crucial that the investigation continues so that all parties responsible for these heinous acts are identified and brought to justice.
The situation in Goma also underlines the importance of putting in place preventive measures to avoid such tragedies in the future. It is essential to strengthen monitoring and accountability mechanisms within the armed forces to prevent human rights violations and violence against civilians.
In this time of grief and anger, it is essential that justice be served and that victims obtain redress. MONUSCO will continue to work in collaboration with the Congolese authorities to ensure that those responsible for these crimes are held accountable, in order to preserve peace and security for all residents of Goma and the region.
In conclusion, the killings of civilians in Goma on August 30, 2023 were a tragic event that must not go unpunished. It is essential that those responsible for these acts answer for their actions, regardless of their rank. Justice must be served and preventive measures must be put in place to prevent such events from happening again in the future. MONUSCO will continue to provide support to ensure peace and security for all inhabitants of the region.
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