The city of Goma, in North Kivu province, is currently in the midst of an initiative to regulate the presence of military and police officers in entertainment venues. The city’s mayor, Chief Superintendent Faustin Kamand Kapend, has decided to formally prohibit members of the security forces from wearing their uniforms in bars, restaurants and other drinking establishments in the city.
This measure, taken in order to prevent abuses and incidents caused by military or police officers in a state of intoxication, has provoked mixed reactions among the population. On the one hand, some welcome this initiative as a step towards greater security and better management of the security forces. On the other hand, voices are being raised to stress the importance of strictly monitoring this ban, pointing out that previous measures have not always been respected.
Civil society in Karisimbi, for example, has spoken out in favour of this measure, while calling for increased vigilance to ensure its effective implementation. It is essential that citizens, bar and restaurant owners and local authorities work together to ensure compliance with this ban.
Indeed, the presence of uniformed law enforcement officers in entertainment venues can be a source of potential conflict and compromise the safety of civilians. It is therefore essential to put in place clear and effective measures to regulate the behaviour of law enforcement officers outside their hours of service.
In conclusion, the initiative taken by the Mayor of Goma is a first step towards better management of the presence of military and police officers in entertainment venues. However, it is essential to ensure rigorous monitoring of this measure to ensure its effective implementation. Collaboration between civil society, local authorities and law enforcement is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens of Goma.