Title: Citizen movements in Goma protest against Operation Springbok
Introduction :
In a recent statement, citizen movements in the city of Goma, located in the North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, expressed their opposition to Operation Springbok. Launched jointly by the United Nations Mission for the Stabilization of Congo (MONUSCO) and the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC), this operation aims to protect the city of Goma and the city of Sake against the attack of the rebel group M23/ RDF. Citizen movements question the effectiveness of MONUSCO, pointing out that this mission has failed to restore peace for more than 20 years.
Years of failure by MONUSCO:
According to citizen movements in North Kivu, the presence of MONUSCO has not prevented the increase in the number of armed groups, massive population displacements, pillaging of natural resources and the violence plaguing the region. They believe that the UN mission has not fulfilled its mandate and that it is therefore unjustified to launch a new joint operation with the FARDC.
Support for the Congolese armed forces:
Despite their opposition to Operation Springbok, the citizen movements of North Kivu reaffirm their support for the FARDC, which has the responsibility of defending the national territory. They ask the Congolese authorities to disassociate themselves from MONUSCO, whose mandate is coming to an end. Citizen movements also urge MONUSCO to demonstrate its desire to protect the population by starting with areas still under M23 occupation, rather than focusing on Goma and Sake.
Conclusion :
The protest by citizens’ movements in Goma against Operation Springbok highlights a growing mistrust of MONUSCO and calls for greater responsibility of the Congolese armed forces to ensure security and stability in the region. As the DRC prepares for a crucial political transition, it is essential to take into account citizens’ concerns in order to promote lasting peace and prevent further violence.