Recent events in the Djugu region of Ituri have been marked by an alarming upsurge in violence perpetrated by the armed groups CODECO and Zaire. Faced with this growing climate of insecurity, the Lori cultural association, representing the Lendu community, has taken a firm stand against these atrocities, which have led to the loss of many innocent lives and sown terror among the local populations.
In a poignant speech delivered in Bunia, the president of the Lori association, René Tchelo, did not hesitate to describe those responsible for these barbaric acts as “bloodsuckers”. He vigorously condemned the attacks perpetrated against defenseless civilians and launched an urgent appeal to the Congolese authorities to restore order and security in this area ravaged by violence.
The demands of the Lori association are clear: it is asking the government to restore state authority throughout the province of Ituri, particularly in the territory of Djugu. It also calls on rival armed groups CODECO and Zaire to cease their provocations and protect the Lendu population against the exactions of the Zaire militia. In addition, it advocates for the rapid implementation of the Disarmament, Demobilization, Community Reintegration and Stabilization Program (PDDRC-S) in order to collect illegal weapons in circulation and to integrate pro-peace armed groups into the reserve forces of the RAD army.
This strong statement by the Lori association comes in a context of persistent unrest in Ituri, where community violence continues to claim victims and cause massive population displacements. Calls for calm and responsibility launched by local actors such as the Lori association are essential in trying to ease tensions and prevent further acts of violence.
It is imperative that independent investigations be conducted to identify and bring to justice the instigators and manipulators of this violence, in order to ensure that peace and security can finally reign in this troubled region of Ituri. The commitment and determination displayed by the Lori association demonstrate the Lendu community’s willingness to work towards a more peaceful and prosperous future for all the inhabitants of the region.