## Bukama tensions: when civil society calls for the awakening of consciences
In a context of local management often marked by abuses of power and conflicts of interest, the recent request of actors from Civil Society of Bukama, in the province of Haut-Lomami, to see the administrator Dieudonné Salumu dismissed from his functions highlights issues that go far beyond the individuals concerned. The accusation of incompetence, tyranny and authoritarianism in the management of local affairs raises fundamental questions about power, legitimacy and the role of civil society in governance.
### A denunciation that resonates
In a document addressed to the local Security Council, these civil society actors do not hesitate to paint a striking picture of the situation in Bukama. They report management which seems, at first glance, more inspired by personal dynamics than by a real interest in the well-being of the population. This denunciation of “interference in customary affairs” and the accusations of “replacement of legitimate leaders by corrupt people” affect the delicate question of the sovereignty of local communities and their recognition in the decision -making process.
This situation is not unique in Bukama. In several regions of the country, similar conflicts emerge when the administrative authorities try to assert a central control over customary structures established for generations. Indeed, the ascent of tensions between traditional structures and administrative powers can lead to social fractures that harm community cohesion.
### Statistics and dynamics at stake
To better understand the context of Bukama, it is useful to consider some data. According to a study by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in 2021, almost 60 % of the provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have postponed cases of tensions between customary and administrative authorities. This alerting figure not only highlights the extent of a phenomenon, but also an urgent need for reforms. Local governments must develop a more inclusive dialogue model that respects culture and traditions while integrating the requirements of administrative modernity.
### Consequences of authoritarianism
The accusations against Dieudonné Salumu also reveal the consequences of an authoritarian style of governance. Examples of employees’ marginalization and destruction of relationships of trust between rulers and governed can have devastating effects on the local social climate. When leaders impose decisions outside a transparent legal framework, they cause a climate of insecurity and anxiety which can lead to demonstrations, or even violence.
By scrutinizing the situation, it is imperative to ask the question: what future for the confidence between the population and its leaders if the rules of the game are raped so much? Prejudices and mistrust will grow, fueling a vicious circle that can explode the underlying tensions.
### The ethics of responsible governance
Dieudonné Salumu, for his part, rejects the accusations of incompetence, affirming that civil society is manipulated by disgruntled actors. His statements highlight the complexity of the situation. Indeed, in an ecosystem where power can be the target of internal struggles for domination, the different parties must consider an ethical approach to governance. Rather than accusing each other, a constructive dialogue and mediation mechanisms would be beneficial to solve fundamental problems.
### Towards a collective awareness
The situation in Bukama could represent a catalyst for a positive change. This would be an opportunity for all the actors involved-local authorities, civil society and citizens-to engage in a process of in-depth reflection on the way in which they wish to co-construct their reality. Promoting transparency, integrity and respect for customary rights could help appease tensions and establish a climate of trust.
In this sense, the role of the media and civil society organizations is crucial to promote dialogue and request accounts from managers. By relaying information on similar situations in other regions and highlighting examples of exemplary governance, they have the power to initiate a collective reflection that could transform these crises into growth and sustainable development opportunities.
### Conclusion
Events in Bukama are just one example of the challenges that the DRC must take up in its quest for responsible and inclusive local governance. By promoting a constructive dialogue between traditional and administrative actors, promoting the values of justice and equity, and ensuring that the votes of civil society are heard, it seems possible to open the way to a more harmonious future for all the parties concerned. It is by taking this path that we will be able to transform the injuries of the past into opportunities for a better future.