Article – Demonstration in Goma: Death toll rises and raises concern
The demonstration which took place on Wednesday August 30, 2023 in Goma, capital of the province of North Kivu, tragically saw an increase in the number of deaths. Initially estimated at 43, the official toll has been revised upwards with now 51 deplored victims.
This information was revealed during a briefing organized by the Spokesman of the Central Government, Patrick Muyaya, where the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior, Security and Customary Affairs, Peter Kazadi, made this alarming announcement.
The demonstration, which was organized by the mystical-religious sect “Messianic Judaic Natural Faith towards the Nations (FNJMN)”, aimed to mobilize the population in a fight against the international community. The Congolese authorities stressed that this action was aimed at countering the intentions of the Rwandan army massed along the border between the two countries.
Moreover, the political situation has also been turbulent with the administrative recall to Kinshasa of the Military Governor of North Kivu, Lieutenant-General Ndima Kongba. However, it was clarified that this recall did not mean his dismissal, but rather consultation with central authorities. During his absence, his deputy takes over.
In the same context, the Chief of General Staff traveled to Goma to inspect the events that took place during the demonstration.
These developments are causing concern and raising questions about managing public order and securing protests in the region. The families of the victims expect justice and concrete measures to prevent such tragedies from happening again in the future.
It is crucial that the Congolese authorities shed full light on the responsibilities in this tragedy and ensure that human rights are respected during the demonstrations. The implementation of prevention and control measures to avoid such overflows is essential to ensure the safety of citizens and restore the confidence of the population.
It is also important to emphasize that the international community must remain attentive to the situation in the DRC and support efforts aimed at promoting peace, stability and respect for human rights in the country.
In conclusion, this tragic demonstration in Goma and the heavy death toll highlight the urgency of taking measures to improve the management of demonstrations and guarantee the safety of citizens. It is essential that the truth be established and that justice be rendered to the victims in order to avoid impunity and to work for a more just and peaceful Congolese society.