Last weekend in Goma, sad news shook the local community with the brutal assassination of the coordinator of the Catholic radio station Radio Maria, among two other civilians. This heinous crime sparked a wave of emotion and anger within civil society, highlighting the deep security gaps in this troubled region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Radio Maria coordinator Edmond Bahati Monja was shot several times in the Ndosho neighborhood while returning home. His tragic murder not only brought grief to his family and colleagues, but also highlighted the urgency of the worrying security situation in Goma. Father Muhigi Adeodatus, Director of Radio Maria, expressed his deep dismay at this irreparable loss and called on the authorities to take firm measures to put an end to the spiral of violence in the region.
This is unfortunately not an isolated case in Goma, where civilians are regularly targeted by unidentified armed assailants. The figures are alarming, with at least 78 people murdered between April and July 2024 according to a report by local civil society. This chronic insecurity raises crucial questions about the authorities’ ability to guarantee the protection of citizens and ensure stability in the region.
The president of Congolese civil society in Goma, Duvin Ombeni Katabazi, pointed the finger at the authorities for their inaction in the face of the escalation of violence. He highlighted the irony of a situation where even the authorities live in fear, leaving the population defenseless in the face of a growing threat. The responsibility now lies with the political-military authorities to take the necessary measures to restore security and rebuild the trust of citizens.
Despite the efforts of the city’s mayor to intensify anti-crime operations, such as Operation Safisha Muji, the situation remains worrying. Dozens of criminals have been apprehended, but this has not been enough to stem the tide of violence in Goma. It is imperative that efforts are redoubled and effective measures are adopted to protect the population and address this growing threat.
In conclusion, the assassination of the coordinator of Radio Maria and two other civilians in Goma is a painful reminder of the urgency of the security situation in the region. The authorities must act quickly and decisively to put an end to the violence and guarantee the safety of the inhabitants of this wounded city. Only concerted and relentless action will restore peace and stability in Goma, offering hope for better days for its inhabitants.