The intercommunity Baraza of Goma, in the province of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, expresses its disagreement with the call launched by certain citizen movements and activists calling themselves Wazalendo, to observe a ghost town day. This statement was made following a meeting of the provincial security committee held recently at the governor’s office.
According to Baraza, organizing a ghost town day at this precise moment would only benefit the enemy, given the precarious security situation that the city of Goma is currently experiencing. The structure therefore calls on the population to demonstrate a patriotic spirit and not allow themselves to be manipulated by those who pull the strings.
For the secretary of Baraza, Stéphane Lupao, organizing a ghost town day in this context would be inappropriate. He emphasizes that such demonstrations often turn into excesses with loss of life and material damage, which the already affected populations cannot afford.
He also recalls that following the violent repression of August 30, justice is doing its job to identify and punish all those responsible for these acts. He also assures that dignified funerals will be organized to pay tribute to the victims of these tragic events.
This statement from the intercommunity Baraza highlights concerns related to the stability and security of the city of Goma. It warns of the potentially harmful consequences of a dead city day and calls for a spirit of solidarity and patriotism. The population is urged not to allow themselves to be manipulated by external forces who could exploit such a situation for nefarious purposes.
It remains to be hoped that this declaration will help to ease tensions and promote a climate more conducive to resolving the problems facing the city of Goma. The safety and well-being of residents must remain the top priority, and sustainable solutions must be found to ensure a better future for all.