News: Citizen movements in Goma oppose Operation Springbok
In a recent statement, the collective of citizen movements in the city of Goma, located in North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, clearly expresses its opposition to Operation Springbok. This joint operation between the United Nations Mission for the Stabilization of Congo (MONUSCO) and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) aims to protect Goma and the city of Sake against attacks by the M23/RDF rebel group.
Citizen movements question the relevance of this operation, arguing that MONUSCO has failed for more than 20 years in its mission to restore peace. On the contrary, they highlight an increase in armed groups, massive population displacements, pillaging of natural resources as well as various forms of violence, all under the inactive gaze of the UN mission.
One of the main reasons for their opposition is the observation that the M23/RDF terrorists have heavier weapons and better organization than the United Nations forces. Citizen movements are therefore calling on the Congolese authorities, asking them to dissociate themselves from MONUSCO, which is at the end of its mandate, and to fully support the FARDC in their mission to defend the national territory.
In addition, citizen movements are asking MONUSCO to demonstrate its goodwill by starting this operation in areas still under rebel occupation, before focusing on the protection of Goma and Sake.
This position taken by citizen movements in North Kivu reveals the growing discontent with the presence of MONUSCO and raises questions about the effectiveness of the UN mission in resolving conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
It is essential that the Congolese authorities take into account the concerns of the population and take measures to strengthen the security and stability of the region. The situation in North Kivu remains fragile, and it is imperative to find lasting solutions to end the violence and enable the region’s development.
The next steps of Operation Springbok and the actions taken by the Congolese authorities will be crucial for resolving the crisis and seeking lasting peace in this part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Citizen movements will undoubtedly remain attentive to the evolution of the situation and will continue to defend the interests of the local population.