The deadly crackdown that took place in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, on August 30 continues to raise concerns. While the government initially announced a death toll of 7, this figure was quickly revised upwards, now reaching 51 victims. However, civil society organizations estimate that there are actually around 100 deaths.
This crackdown was carried out by an elite unit of the Congolese armed forces against the followers of a mystical-religious sect called the Messianic Judaic Natural Faith for the Nations. The members of this sect demanded the withdrawal of the UN Mission in the DRC (Monusco), as well as of the regional force of the East African Community, and also criticized the ineffectiveness of the state of siege declared there. two years ago by President Félix Tshisekedi.
The government justified this repression by saying that it was aimed at preventing a possible invasion of Congolese territory by the Rwandan defense forces, which would have been spotted near the border. According to the government, this elite unit was deployed to deter Rwandan forces and alert them to the consequences of a possible intrusion into Congolese territory.
However, the government’s justifications do not seem to convince civil society organizations and part of the population, who denounce disproportionate repression and demand justice for the victims. Calls for a trial to be brought to account are increasing, and some voices are being raised to denounce the human rights violations perpetrated during this repression.
This situation raises many questions about the security and stability of the region, as well as about respect for human rights in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is essential that thorough investigations are carried out to shed light on these events and that those responsible for these acts of violence are brought to justice.
Faced with this situation, the international community must also assume its responsibilities and support efforts aimed at promoting peace, justice and respect for human rights in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is essential to remember that every life matters and that ensuring a peaceful and prosperous future for all Congolese citizens must be the top priority.