Title: “The state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri soon to be lifted: a new era of hope in the DRC”
Introduction :
Since May 2021, the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have been in the grip of a state of siege, an exceptional measure aimed at combating violence perpetrated by armed groups. However, President Félix Tshisekedi recently announced a gradual easing of this measure, marking the start of a new era of hope for the population of these tormented regions.
A transitional device for a return to normality:
According to President Tshisekedi, the transitional system that will be put in place provides for the restoration of civil authority in the decentralized and deconcentrated territorial entities which are already secure and under the control of the Armed Forces of the DRC. This involves lifting constitutional restrictions on citizens, such as the curfew and limitations on the free movement of people and their goods. Additionally, freedom of peaceful protest and assembly will also be restored.
A crucial decision as the elections approach:
This decision to ease the state of siege comes at a crucial time for the DRC, with presidential, legislative, provincial and local elections scheduled for December 20. Indeed, this new measure will allow the various actors involved in the electoral process to participate fully and without hindrance. President Tshisekedi, a candidate for re-election, seems to want to create a climate of trust and democracy conducive to the conduct of these elections.
A fragile improvement in the security situation:
Despite the efforts made by the state of siege, the security situation in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri remains precarious. The M23 rebellion has still occupied certain areas of North Kivu since last year and fighting has recently resumed, leading to further loss of life and population displacement. However, President Tshisekedi highlights an improvement in the security situation in certain areas, which suggests hope for a return to stability in the longer term.
Conclusion :
The gradual easing of the state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri in the DRC marks an important step in the quest for peace and stability in these regions ravaged by violence. By allowing the return of civil authority and restoring fundamental freedoms, President Tshisekedi is offering the population a semblance of normalcy and hope. It remains to be seen whether this transitional arrangement will be sufficient