The Goma killings: a state crime, a denial of justice
On August 30, the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo was the scene of a brutal repression by Congolese security forces against a demonstration organized by the mystical-religious sect of “Wazalendo”. The consequences of this repression are tragic, with at least 51 civilians killed. Faced with this despicable act, many voices are being raised in public opinion to denounce this state crime and demand accountability from those responsible.
Hervé Diakiese, member of the Lay Coordination Committee, committed lawyer, expresses his indignation at this tragedy. For him, it is a state crime, just like the assassination of Congolese opponent Cherubin Okende. He also denounces the reaction of the government which tries to minimize the facts by speaking of a simple slip-up. According to him, it is unacceptable to compare this event to incidents that could occur in the United States. This government clearance attempt is seen as an insult to the intelligence of the Congolese and an attack on the memory of the victims.
Hervé Diakiese also points to the responsibility of military leaders in this tragedy. According to him, elements of the Republican Guard, however well trained they may be, cannot carry out an attack against an unarmed group without the approval of the hierarchy. He believes that this calls into question the credibility of military training and underlines the importance of seeking the truth and identifying all those responsible for these acts.
This affair has sparked strong reactions among the Congolese population, who are demanding justice for the victims and punishment for the culprits. A motion of censure has been filed against Prime Minister Jean Michel Sama Lukonde and calls for his resignation, as well as that of his entire government. This request for resignation is a firm response to the government’s inability to ensure the security of citizens and punish those responsible for these crimes.
It is essential to shed light on this matter so that justice is done and such events do not happen again. The dignity and security of Congolese citizens must be protected, and this requires recognition of responsibilities and the prosecution of those guilty.
In conclusion, the killings in Goma are a state crime which must not go unpunished. The Congolese population deserves justice and security, and the government must take all necessary measures to identify and punish those responsible for these acts. The search for truth is essential so that such events do not happen again and to guarantee a better future for the Democratic Republic of Congo.