Tensions in Goma after deadly clashes in the Mugunga district
The city of Goma, in the North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), was the scene of violent clashes on Thursday which caused the death of seven people, including two police officers, in the Mugunga district. Tension rose when the police tried to settle the victims of the 2002 volcanic eruption on the site allocated to them by the provincial authorities.
According to the testimonies collected, the residents of the neighborhood were surprised by an operation to demarcate and measure plots supposedly belonging to them. Fearing being evicted from their homes, the population then rebelled and began throwing stones at the police.
Faced with this violent reaction, the police used warning shots, which led to an escalation of violence and caused the deaths of five civilians and two police officers.
These incidents highlight the existing tensions between the victims of the 2002 volcanic eruption, beneficiaries of a rehousing program, and the current occupants of the neighborhood. Each party claims its rights to the land in question.
The Mugunga district chief calls for the intervention of the competent authorities to try to resolve this land conflict. It is crucial to find a fair solution to ease tensions and avoid further violence.
The situation in Goma remains tense, but local authorities and security services intervened quickly to try to restore calm. It is essential to continue mediation and dialogue efforts in order to prevent new clashes and guarantee the safety of residents.
This situation once again demonstrates the challenges facing the DRC, particularly with regard to land management and conflict resolution. The authorities must work to put in place effective mechanisms to resolve these disputes and ensure the stability and well-being of the population.
It is also necessary to inform and raise awareness among citizens about their rights and the legal procedures to follow to resolve land disputes. Better knowledge of each other’s rights would help prevent tensions and promote peaceful resolution of conflicts.
In conclusion, it is essential that the authorities take concrete steps to resolve land issues in Goma and other regions of the DRC. This requires political will and sustained efforts to guarantee the security and well-being of the population.