The recurring cases of mob justice in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, are a major concern for civil society and local judicial authorities. These acts, which call into question the very foundations of the rule of law, arouse indignation and concern among the population.
The latest tragic incident in the Majengo neighborhood, where three alleged thieves were burned alive by an angry mob, poignantly illustrates the failure of formal justice mechanisms to effectively address the security and protection needs of citizens. Beyond the barbaric act of violence itself, the essential question that arises is that of the population’s trust in judicial and security institutions.
Marion Ngavo, president of the urban civil society of Goma, highlights the dangers of mob justice, not only in terms of violating the fundamental rights of individuals, but also in terms of the education and training of young people, who can be deeply impacted by such scenes of violence and disorder.
The public prosecutor at the Goma High Court, Paluku Kitambala Pascal, raises the need for better communication between the judicial authorities and the population, in order to foster a mutual understanding of the issues and challenges facing the city. He stresses the importance of trusting the justice system and the security forces to ensure the preservation of public order and the rights of everyone.
It is undeniable that the persistence of cases of mob justice in Goma reveals deep flaws in the functioning of the judicial system and in the authorities’ ability to ensure the safety of citizens. This situation highlights the urgent need to strengthen the capacities of judicial institutions, promote human rights and citizenship education, and establish a constructive dialogue between civil society actors, local authorities and the population.
Ultimately, the fight against mob justice in Goma can only be effectively waged if it is part of a comprehensive approach to strengthening the rule of law, promoting a culture of justice and respect for human rights, and consolidating crime prevention and repression mechanisms. It is time for all stakeholders to unite in a collective effort to end this spiral of violence and impunity, and to build together a fairer and safer future for all the inhabitants of Goma and the Democratic Republic of Congo.