Fatshimetrie, a new player in the field of information, has recently brought to light alarming information concerning serious crimes against the civilian population in South Kivu. According to an in-depth research conducted by the Working Group on Transitional Justice in South Kivu, no less than 191 incidents constituting serious crimes were recorded between 1994 and 2024 in this province.
The figures revealed by this report are alarming. Indeed, the majority of these crimes were committed in the territories of Kalehe and Mwenga, representing respectively 23% and 25% of the cases recorded. These data underline the serious situation in which the civilian population of these regions has been for several decades.
The alleged perpetrators of these crimes are mainly non-state armed groups, closely monitored by state services. This distribution highlights the complexity of the security issues in the region and the need for firm action by the authorities to protect civilians.
The report stresses that the vast majority of the cases listed have not yet been followed up in court. Indeed, many incidents have not even been brought before the courts, leaving victims without justice and perpetrators unpunished. This impunity fuels a climate of fear and permanent insecurity for the local population.
Faced with these damning findings, the Working Group on Transitional Justice in South Kivu recommends that these cases be taken into account quickly by the judicial authorities. It is imperative that investigations be opened and that those responsible for these crimes be brought to justice in order to guarantee the safety and protection of local populations.
This report, the result of work carried out by civil society organizations supported by international partners, highlights the urgent need for collective action to put an end to impunity and restore justice in the South Kivu region. It also recalls the importance of transitional justice in building lasting peace and a just society for all.
In sum, these revelations highlight the magnitude of the challenges facing the civilian population of South Kivu. It is imperative that concrete and effective measures are taken to guarantee the security and protection of civilians, while ensuring that those responsible for these crimes are held accountable for their actions before the courts.