Goma, a city scarred by repression: Burial of victims of violence
September 18, 2023 was a tense day in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite the protest movements in several districts of the city, the authorities carried out the burial of 57 people who died three weeks ago during the repression of August 30.
These victims, all killed during a military intervention against a local sect which had called for demonstrations against MONUSCO, were buried at the Makao cemetery in Goma. However, the families of the victims expressed their disagreement and demanded a postponement of the funeral in order to be able to identify the bodies of their loved ones.
Unfortunately, the authorities did not take into account the families’ requests and carried out the burial without their consent. This decision was strongly criticized by Lucha activist Steward Muhindo, who highlighted the authorities’ lack of respect for the victims and their families.
In African culture, mourning and funerals represent a moment of complicity between the living and the dead. The fact that the authorities unilaterally decide to organize the burial without the agreement of the families is a revolting and contemptuous situation towards the victims.
Faced with this situation, demonstrations and barricades took place in several districts of the city to protest against this unilateral burial. The Deputy Prime Minister of the Interior went there to meet family members and try to find a consensus. Unfortunately, the meeting did not result in an agreement and the burial took place without the families present.
Interior Minister Peter Kazadi justified speeding up the burial process by citing health risks. However, this explanation has not convinced the families of the victims who denounce this decision as an obstruction of the search for truth and justice.
This new tragedy is added to the list of violence and conflicts shaking the Goma region. Indeed, on August 30, a violent repression took place during a demonstration against the presence of MONUSCO and the force of the Community of East African States. These forces are accused of inaction in the face of the insecurity that reigns in eastern DRC.
The situation in Goma has become unbearable for the population who live in fear and uncertainty. It is time for the authorities to take concrete measures to end the violence and guarantee the safety of residents.
In conclusion, the burial of victims of repression in Goma in the DRC was carried out against the wishes of the families, sparking strong reactions and demonstrations in the city. This decision by the authorities demonstrates a lack of respect towards the victims and their loved ones, as well as a deterioration of the security situation in the region. It is crucial that steps are taken to restore peace and justice in Goma.