** At the heart of the customary conflict in Walikale: a way to de -escalation? **
The territory of Walikale, located in North Kivu, is struck by tragic violence due to conflicts of customary power. Recent events, including scuffles that occurred in Ibanga on April 11, have raised major concerns about how these disputes are paid. The call for peace and de -escalation of the bakano sector chief, Mwami Selemani Bwami Kitunda Jean, resonates like a rallying cry for the proven community.
### Context and impact of violence
The repercussions of these violence are manifested not only by tragic human losses, but also by a break in the social fabric. The clashes having led to two deaths and several wounded, including one in critical condition, plunge the community into a climate of fear and insecurity. The involvement of armed groups, such as Raïya Mutomboki, in conflicts which should ideally be settled by peaceful means raises disturbing questions about the dynamics of social peace in the region.
It is imperative to remember that behind these statistics and declarations are human lives, bereaved families and divided communities. Violence often generates an endless cycle: each act of reprisals calls for a similar reaction, leading to a destructive spiral. Calls to return to a constructive dialogue are therefore initiatives to support.
### The voice of local leadership
Mwami Selemani Bwami Kitunda Jean underlines the need for a peaceful approach to resolve customary conflicts. He recalls that “the advisory committee for the conflict of customary power is the only body authorized to solve this problem”. This reminder is crucial; It testifies to the will of local leaders to take concrete measures to prevent previous conflicts from being repeated.
This perspective highlights the importance of local leadership as a mediator in this type of crisis. The customary authority has a preponderant place in the culture and social organization of the territory. The esteem of traditional leaders, like Mwami Selemani, can be a powerful lever to promote dialogue and build confidence between the parties in conflict.
### Justice and responsibility
Military justice was seized to deal with the tragic events that took place in Ibanga. The importance of holding the authors of violence as responsible is a sine qua non condition for restoring confidence in local and national institutions. However, justice should not be understood only in terms of repression. It must also include repair and reconciliation mechanisms.
Without an inclusive process, which takes into account the votes of all the parties concerned, distrust and resentments are likely to last. It is therefore essential that the local authorities and the community work together to establish dialogue mechanisms which make it possible to treat the grievances in a fair and fair way.
### to a sustainable improvement
The Mwami Selemani call to de -escalation offers an opportunity to explore alternative conflict resolution methods. How can community leaders collaborate with local authorities to strengthen the capacities of the advisory committee? What place for education for peace and awareness in this context?
These questions are moving in the background of immediate concerns and call for a reflection on the way in which the different stakeholders can engage in a process of peaceful transformation. The construction of peace requires patience, empathy and a sincere commitment of all strata of society.
### Conclusion
The tragic events that struck the Bakondjo group in the Bakano sector recall the urgency of adopting a peaceful approach in the resolution of customary conflicts. Each voice, each call for peace counts to build bridges where walls stand. Community leaders are called upon to play a central role in this process, guiding their fellow citizens towards a future where dialogue will prevail over violence. By working together, by initiating frank and inclusive discussions, it is possible to go beyond this cycle of violence and to aspire to lasting harmony within the community.