Since the advent of the Wazalendo movement in the Democratic Republic of Congo, multiple opinions have collided. Some see this movement as true patriotism, in accordance with the law of the country, while others describe it as “whitewashing” according to rumors circulating on social networks.
At the heart of this debate is article 63 of Congolese law, which recognizes each citizen the right and duty to defend their country and its integrity in the face of any external threat or aggression. It is with this in mind that young volunteers, driven by a spirit of patriotism, took up arms to fight the rebellion of the M23 and its Rwandan allies, who occupied territories in North Kivu.
In a previous SangoYa Bomoko bulletin, President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi expressed his support for these patriotic volunteers, affirming that they were true compatriots defending their country. However, some cast doubt on the origins of these volunteers, accusing them of coming from armed groups.
In response to these concerns, government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya stressed that for the moment, the only threat is that of the M23/RDF. Once this issue is resolved, other problems between Congolese will be able to find solutions. The government has also adopted a draft decree relating to the implementation of a law on the creation of a reservist corps in the army.
This debate around the Wazalendo movement highlights the differences of opinion and fears linked to the security situation in the DRC. While some welcome the patriotism of these young volunteers, others fear the potential involvement of armed groups. It is essential to continue discussions and actions aimed at ensuring stability and security in the country.
This article comes from the analysis of the bulletin Sango ya bomoko n°29, a program which aims to prevent the spread of hate speech and disinformation by collecting and processing rumors within Congolese communities.