Hot news in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to attract attention and make headlines. Recently, a large-scale demonstration took place in Beni, in the province of North Kivu, to protest against the inauguration of President Félix Tshisekedi. Unfortunately, this peaceful demonstration was violently repressed by the police, triggering a feeling of anger and indignation among the population.
The young demonstrators raised their voices to express their dissatisfaction with the inauguration of President Tshisekedi, which they consider illegitimate. Barricades were set up in the streets, with rubble, trash cans and burning tires, symbolizing their determination to make their voices heard. Unfortunately, the response from law enforcement was swift and violent, clearing the streets and violently repressing protesters.
Nasson Murara, communicator for the Congolese national police in Beni, said: “We did not find any demonstrators there, when we arrived they had already left. But our elements have already cleared the main street of Matonge which was already barricaded by unknown young people.” However, the testimonies of demonstrators present at the scene tell a completely different story, with scenes of brutality and abuse of power on the part of the police.
This violent repression only fuels existing tensions in the country. Since the inauguration of Félix Tshisekedi, the opposition continues to demonstrate its discontent in different places in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The protests are a reflection of the Congolese people’s desire to see real change and real democracy take hold in their country.
It is important to emphasize that the right to peacefully demonstrate is a fundamental right, guaranteed by the Congolese constitution. The authorities must respect and protect this right, rather than resorting to violence to suppress protests. Excessive and disproportionate repression only reinforces public resentment and frustration, fueling the cycle of violence and instability.
The situation in Beni remains tense, with a population continuing to assert their rights and demand a better future for their country. It is essential that the government takes steps to meet the aspirations of the Congolese people, by promoting open dialogue and working towards the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
In conclusion, the demonstration in Beni against the inauguration of Félix Tshisekedi was violently repressed by the police, accentuating tensions and discontent in the country. It is essential to respect the fundamental right to peaceful protest and to promote dialogue to find lasting solutions to the problems affecting the Democratic Republic of Congo. The voice of the Congolese people must be heard and their aspirations for a better future must be taken into account by the authorities in place.
Article link: [Large-scale demonstration in the DRC against the re-election of Félix Tshisekedi: a protest which divides the country](https://fatshimetrie.org/blog/2024/01/20/manifestation-de-grande-entreprises-en -drc-against-the-reelection-of-felix-tshisekedi-a-contest-which-divides-the-country/)