Fatshimetrie presents a worrying picture of the situation in the Kalehe territory in South Kivu, where at least 9 people lost their lives between November and December at the hands of Wazalendo militiamen and uncontrolled FARDC soldiers. These barbaric acts mainly targeted entrepreneurs, shopkeepers and young people, also causing rapes, robberies and looting in the region.
The figures put forward by civil society, represented by Delphin Birimbi, president of the Kalehe territory consultation framework, highlight an alarming toll of 9 deaths, several injuries, 2 rapes and 3 cases of robbery and looting. This recurring violence calls into question the government’s responsibility and the need to put an end to the presence of militiamen among civilians.
The recommendations put forward by civil society highlight the urgent need for concrete action by the authorities to protect the local population. It is essential to remove the wazalendo from populated areas, strengthen military justice to try the perpetrators and guarantee the security of the inhabitants of Kalehe.
This conflict between the wazalendo militiamen and the Congolese armed forces seems to be part of a broader context of unrest and clashes in the region, particularly since the events involving the M23 and the FARDC in North Kivu. The presence of unstable armed groups such as the wazalendo fuels a climate of fear and insecurity among civilians, compromising their daily lives and freedom.
It is imperative that the government take immediate measures to restore peace and security in the Kalehe territory. The eradication of violence by militias and armed groups is a priority to ensure the protection of civilians and promote sustainable development in the region. Respect for human rights and justice are fundamental principles that must guide the actions of the authorities to put an end to this spiral of violence and insecurity.