The inauguration of the Management Committee of the Special Fund for Reparation and Compensation for Victims of Armed Activities of Uganda (FRIVAO) in the Democratic Republic of Congo marked a major turning point in the victims’ quest for justice. This historic event took place in Kisangani, in the province of Tshopo. The vice-governor of Tshopo, Paulin Lendongolia, expressed his satisfaction and hope as to the outcome of this process.
In his speech, Paulin Lendongolia stressed that this inauguration marked the end of a nightmare for the population of the “Grande Orientale” area. The atrocities committed by Uganda in the provinces of Tshopo, Haut-Uélé, Bas-Uélé and Ituri have caused immense suffering and trauma among the inhabitants. Finally, the long-awaited compensation for victims could help heal the wounds inflicted by these armed activities.
The vice-governor also spoke of the persistent scars of this atrocious war in certain regions, referring to a cemetery specially set up for the victims. This demonstrates the magnitude of the losses suffered and the importance of fair and equitable compensation.
Paulin Lendongolia recognized that international justice had not fully met expectations in terms of compensation for victims. However, he expressed his hope that the amount allocated by the International Court of Justice would allow victims and communities in the provinces concerned to heal these wounds. He also assured the full support of the provincial government to the new managers of FRIVAO to carry out this delicate mission.
The amount of compensation, spread over five installments, covers personal damage, property and natural resources. These funds, currently held in a Ministry of Justice account, will be used once the FRIVAO is fully operational.
This inauguration marks a significant step forward in the quest for justice for victims of Uganda’s armed activities in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Hopefully this initiative will help ease the suffering endured and pave the way for genuine reconstruction for the affected communities.