The gradual easing of the state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri in the Democratic Republic of Congo was announced by President Félix Tshisekedi. This measure, introduced in May 2021, aimed to combat violence perpetrated by armed groups in the region.
After more than two years of restrictions and increased military presence, President Tshisekedi decided to put in place a transitional system allowing the reestablishment of civil authority in secure areas. This involves lifting constitutional restrictions on citizens, such as the free movement of people and their goods, as well as the freedom of peaceful protest and assembly.
This decision comes a few months before the presidential, legislative, provincial and local elections scheduled for December 20. By announcing this progressive relief, President Tshisekedi wishes to allow those involved in the electoral process to participate fully without hindrance.
However, this decision raises questions about security in the region, particularly due to the continued presence of armed groups, such as the M23 rebellion. Since last year, this rebellion has occupied certain territories in North Kivu, and fighting has recently resumed, leading to new victims and population displacements.
Despite this, President Tshisekedi is confident about an improvement in the security situation in certain areas of the provinces concerned. It is necessary to remember that the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo has been marked for decades by violence perpetrated by local and foreign armed groups, a legacy of the regional conflicts of the 1990s-2000s.
Ultimately, the decision to ease the state of siege in the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri is a signal of hope for the population. However, it remains important to maintain increased vigilance in the face of persistent violence in the region and to put in place effective measures to guarantee long-term security and stability.