Fatshimetrie
Operation “Zero Kuluna”: Facing the Emergency of Security in the DRC
In a context marked by a rise in urban insecurity in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Congolese government recently launched Operation “Zero Kuluna”. This initiative aims to combat the banditry that is rampant, particularly in the capital Kinshasa, and to restore the order and social peace so demanded by the population. Under the leadership of the Minister of Justice, Constant Mutamba, this operation is intended to be a radical response to the criminal acts perpetrated by certain gangs, particularly in sensitive neighborhoods such as Kisenso or Makala.
The images of violence and rape emanating from these neighborhoods testify to the urgency of the situation and the urgent need to act. Operation “Ndobo”, complementary to “Zero Kuluna”, is being deployed with targeted arrests, summary judgments and a reinforcement of security measures. This strategy is gradually being extended throughout the national territory, with the establishment of mobile courts to ensure rapid and effective justice, as highlighted by the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior.
However, in the midst of this legitimate fight against crime, voices are being raised to warn of the risk of human rights violations. National MP Remyxon Mukweso insists on the need to respect fundamental principles, recalling the abuses perpetrated during previous security operations. The National Human Rights Commission has also expressed its concerns about the application of the death penalty, which it considers to be contrary to constitutional advances in human rights.
In these times of fighting insecurity, it is essential to find a balance between firmness and respect for fundamental rights. The primary objective of these operations must be to restore security for all Congolese citizens, while ensuring fair justice that respects international human rights standards. Only a balanced approach can restore the population’s confidence in institutions and reaffirm the authority of the State throughout the national territory.