### Ituri: towards a necessary collaboration between the population and the armed forces of the DRC in the face of the threat of CRP
On May 13, the provincial government of Ituri appealed to the population to collaborate with the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) in the fight against the Armed Group Convention for the Popular Revolution (CRP), led by Thomas Lubanga. This discourse, carried by Lieutenant Jules Ngongo, brings a considerable weight in the current context of the province, largely affected by armed conflicts and persistent violence.
### Historical and safe context
Ituri, a region rich in natural resources, has experienced recurring violence for several decades, exacerbated by interethnic rivalries and struggles for the control of wealth. The CRP, which aspires to destabilize the province, is part of this complex landscape. Thomas Lubanga, an emblematic figure of the region, has already been sentenced internationally for crimes related to human rights violations. Its resurgence in the region raises many questions about the stability and security of local populations.
The recent military operations carried out by the FARDC, which would have imposed significant losses on the militiamen beyond Virakpa and along Lake Albert, underline the urgency of the situation. However, these offensives, although necessary, do not always bring a lasting solution to a multifacette problem.
### Call for vigilance and shared responsibilities
Lieutenant Ngongo’s message calls for collective vigilance. The suggestion that members of the community report suspicious behavior relates to the delicate problem of distrust and stigma. Although cooperation between the population and the police is an essential pillar in the fight against insecurity, it must also be implemented with caution. Fear of unjust reprisals or accusations can lead to a decline in communities, which, in return, could fuel a distrust cycle.
It is important to note that local populations often play a central role in the success of security strategies, while being themselves victims of conflicts. Encourage citizens to get involved requires guarantees, both in terms of protection and recognition of the issues they face on a daily basis.
### to a global solution
Effective cooperation is not limited to the commitment of civilians to the military authorities. Community mediation and dialogue initiatives could breathe new life into the situation. Historically, attempts to resolve conflicts in Ituri have often been undermined by unilateral approaches which ignored the aspirations and fears of the populations.
It is therefore fundamental that the provincial government and the FARDC are considering awareness and training programs to explain the situation, strengthen trust and involve community leaders as agents of change. At the same time, particular attention should be paid to the real needs of communities in terms of socio-economic security and development, because a stable environment cannot be established without guaranteeing the means of subsistence and the dignity of citizens.
### Conclusion
The situation in Ituri is at the crossroads. The call for collaboration between the population and the FARDC, through the vigilance and the unmasking of disruptive movements, is a major approach. However, it must be accompanied by a humanitarian and inclusive approach that takes into account history, fears and aspirations of people living in this region. By acting with prudence and humanity, it is possible not only to send the immediate threat posed by CRP, but also to establish bases for lasting peace. The opening of new dialogue channels and a global security response constitute necessary steps towards lasting stabilization of the province.