Title: The step towards peace: Uganbukali militiamen surrender their arms in Ubundu
Introduction :
In an encouraging gesture towards reconciliation and stability, a large delegation of 350 Uganbukali militiamen chose to lay down their arms to the authorities of Ubundu, located in the Tshopo province in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This move follows a series of negotiations and peace talks, in order to end conflicts with their Mbole brothers and contribute to the development of their region. This event marks a significant turning point in the fight against violence and the building of a peaceful future for the country.
Laying down of arms and request for pardon:
The interim administrator of Ubundu, Umolelay Mungabamba, warmly welcomed the delegation of Uganbukali militiamen. In the morning, 250 militiamen, including 8 women, surrendered their weapons, followed in the early evening by another group of 100 militiamen, including two women. They also handed over several weapons including locally manufactured 12 gauge guns, machetes, spears, bows with arrows, fetishes and other belongings which were symbolically burned. These symbolic acts demonstrate the militiamen’s desire to break with their violent past and look toward a future of peace and reconciliation.
The Uganbukali militiamen expressed their regret for the suffering they inflicted on the population and requested forgiveness from the population and the provincial authorities. They also asked for leniency for their compatriots incarcerated in Kisangani central prison. This approach demonstrates their sincere desire to reintegrate into society and contribute to building a better future.
The reintegration process:
The provincial Minister of Interior and Security, Jean Norbert Lokula Lolisambo, welcomed the gesture of the Uganbukali militiamen. He stressed that the identification of all individuals was done in order to allow their return to their respective villages. As for the reintegration process, it will be decided by the hierarchy according to the conditions and needs of each individual. This individualized approach will allow former militiamen to readjust to civilian life, while benefiting from appropriate support for their social and economic reintegration.
A crucial step towards peace and development:
The Uganbukali militiamen who have laid down their arms are part of a growing number of rebel groups and militias who have chosen to break away from violence and engage in peaceful processes in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The previous week, a group of 25 Lengola militiamen had also laid down their arms in the Ubundu region. These gestures of peace and reconciliation are essential to put an end to the internal conflicts that have ravaged the country for years and to enable sustainable development.
In conclusion :
The laying down of arms by the Uganbukali militiamen in Ubundu marks an important step in the quest for peace and stability in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This courageous gesture demonstrates the desire of these veterans to turn the page on violence and commit to building a better future. Supporting these individuals in their social and economic reintegration will be essential to ensure a successful transition towards peace and development for the entire country.