Fatshimetrie: Shedding light on forced evictions in Durba, Democratic Republic of Congo
The case of forced evictions in Durba, in the Haut-Uélé province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is currently generating a lot of ink. More than 2,500 families, including children, pregnant women and the elderly, were left homeless following the demolitions of houses orchestrated in the Mege and Bandayi neighborhoods between October 17 and 21, 2021. An alarming situation that has sparked indignation and mobilization of several organizations and civil society actors.
The meticulous investigation carried out by the PAX Netherlands Peace Foundation (PAX) organization has shed light on the abuses committed during these destruction operations. Heavy machinery, escorted by members of the army and police, razed the homes in a matter of minutes, depriving residents of their homes and belongings. The harrowing testimonies reported by the victims speak of unheard-of violence and flagrant injustice. Women, children, the elderly, all have been plunged into immeasurable distress, left without a roof, without possessions, and without recourse.
The human consequences of these evictions are disastrous. Not only have lives been shattered, but the dignity of individuals has been trampled. Deprived of housing, health care, and even education for their children, the inhabitants of Mege and Bandayi have been plunged into misery and despair. An intolerable situation that raises fundamental questions about respect for fundamental rights and human dignity.
PAX points the finger at the responsibility of the provincial government of Haut-Uélé, as well as the mining company Kibali Gold, in these tragic events. The organization denounces tacit complicity between local authorities and the mining company, highlighting the devastating impact of mining on local populations. While Barrick Gold Corporation, operator of the Kibali mine, is celebrating its financial performance, thousands of citizens are left destitute and desperate, victims of blind policy and limitless greed.
Faced with this human tragedy, voices are being raised to demand justice and reparation. PAX is calling for an independent investigation into the abuses committed during the evictions, demanding that those responsible be held accountable for their actions. The organization’s recommendations for the rights of victims and transparency of the companies involved are essential to ensure the protection of vulnerable populations and to prevent further human rights violations.
In these dark times, when economic interests often take precedence over respect for human dignity, it is crucial to remember that every individual has the fundamental right to shelter, security, and respect for their person. The forced evictions in Durba are a stark reminder of the fragility of these rights, and of the absolute necessity to defend them with strength and determination. May the light of justice and solidarity illuminate the path to a future where the dignity of all is respected, where compassion and empathy guide our actions, and where tolerance and mutual respect are the fundamental values that unite us as human beings.