Title: Reduction of the state of siege in Ituri and North Kivu: Disappointment and support within civil society
Introduction :
President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi recently made the decision to ease the state of siege in Ituri and North Kivu, sparking both disappointment and support within Congolese civil society. While this exceptional measure was put in place with the aim of guaranteeing security in these provinces plagued by armed conflicts, some voices are being raised to express their dissatisfaction with the implementation and results of the state of affairs. seat.
Disappointment with the President’s announcements:
Following the head of state’s address to the Congolese nation, civil society in the commune of Bulengera, located in Butembo, expressed its dissatisfaction with President Tshisekedi’s decisions. For the president of this citizen structure, the population’s expectations were clear: the lifting of the state of siege, considered ineffective and limited. However, the Head of State’s announcements have not allayed concerns and questions remain as to when civil authorities will regain control of decentralized territorial entities.
Financial transparency and justice required:
In addition to questions about the management of the state of siege, civil society is also calling for a financial audit to be held in order to clarify the way in which public funds were used during these two years of implementation. If wrongdoing is proven, she demands that justice be applied. This requirement for financial transparency aims to ensure the accountability of the actors involved in the state of siege.
Contested round table:
The decision to ease the state of siege comes after the holding of a round table on the subject, convened by Prime Minister Sama Lukonde Kyenge. However, some believe that this initiative was nothing more than a waste of time, since many participants clearly called for a complete lifting of the state of siege. In addition, the operationality of ministers and provincial assemblies in these two provinces, crucial in view of the general elections scheduled for December 2023, raises concerns.
Mixed support within civil society:
If the disappointment is palpable within certain structures of civil society, others affirm their support for this decision to ease the state of siege. For them, it is essential to gradually restore civilian authority in the provinces concerned, while maintaining maximum pressure on armed groups. However, guarantees regarding the security and protection of civilian populations are also required.
Conclusion :
The easing of the state of siege in Ituri and North Kivu provokes contrasting reactions within Congolese civil society. If some voices express their disappointment with President Tshisekedi’s decisions and demand more transparency, others support this measure while demanding security guarantees for civilian populations. The implementation of civil authority in these provinces remains a crucial issue in view of the next general elections.