Goma, a city in North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, was the scene of violent clashes on August 30. Seven people lost their lives and nearly twenty others were injured during these altercations between the police and a group of followers of the Wazalendo church.
According to information collected on site, these clashes broke out in the West and North districts of the city. This demonstration, organized by the Wazalendo church, aimed to protest against the presence of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) as well as other agencies of the UN system.
Witnesses reported that heavy gunfire rang out in several areas of the city, including Kyeshero, Ndosho, Himbi, Katoyi and Kasika. Damage was recorded, notably on the site of Radiotelevision Uwezo wa neno, known as Wazalendo radio, headed by Pastor Ephraim Bisimwa.
Unfortunately, during these clashes, six followers of the Wazalendo church who were propagating the messages of the demonstration lost their lives. Among the victims is a woman close to Pastor Ephraim Bisimwa. Some sources indicate that the latter was arrested by the city’s defense and security forces.
These incidents also led to clashes in other districts of Goma, causing further material damage. This violence highlights the tensions present in the region and highlights the challenges that the DRC faces in maintaining order and managing demonstrations.
It is essential that authorities put in place measures to prevent such incidents in the future and encourage open dialogue between different stakeholders. Citizen security must be a top priority, while respecting the right to freedom of expression and peaceful demonstration.
It is also important that the international community, particularly the UN, continues to support the DRC in its efforts to ensure security and stability in the North Kivu region. MONUSCO and other UN agencies present in the country play a crucial role in protecting civilians and promoting human rights.
In conclusion, the events in Goma demonstrate the persistent tensions in the DRC and highlight the need to find peaceful and lasting solutions to guarantee security and stability in the region. It is essential that all actors involved work together to prevent such incidents in the future and foster a climate of dialogue and peace.