Title: Recent tragic events in Goma raise questions about the responsibility of the Republican Guard
Introduction :
Responding to a demonstration by the Uwezo wa neno Mesiani/Wazalendo sect in Goma, the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) were involved in a disproportionate act of violence that resulted in the deaths of more than 50 civilians. Two weeks after these tragic events, military justice is still seeking to establish responsibilities. Witnesses point the finger at the Republican Guard, highlighting its role in the killings. This article will explore recent developments in the trial of the soldiers involved and the damning testimony against the Republican Guard.
The trial of the soldiers in progress:
The trial of the six soldiers involved in these events is currently taking place at the North Kivu Military Court in Goma. During the hearings, several witnesses claimed that the Republican Guard was responsible for the murders. Colonel Yves Rubenga, commander of the General Staff Headquarters at the 34th Military Region, said he saw GR elements take away the radios and arrest the sect leader. He also accused the Republican Guard of having disarmed the soldiers in charge and of having given the order to shoot civilians. Colonel Mike Mikombe, commander of the Republican Guard in Goma, justified his unit’s intervention by saying the demonstrators were linked to the M23 and represented a threat to the city.
Shocking videos:
Videos widely shared on social media showed members of the Republican Guard collecting the bodies of killed civilians and putting them in trucks. These images aroused public indignation and reinforced the accusations made against the Republican Guard. The bodies of the victims are still kept in different morgues in Goma awaiting their identification and burial.
The consequences and ongoing investigations:
These tragic events raise serious concerns about the accountability of the Republican Guard and the use of excessive force by security forces. Ongoing investigations aim to establish the truth and bring justice to the victims and their families.
Conclusion :
The tragic events in Goma have highlighted the problems of violence and impunity facing the Democratic Republic of Congo. Pending the results of the investigations, it is essential to press for those responsible to be held to account and for measures to be taken to prevent such acts of violence in the future. Civil society and the international community must continue to support efforts to strengthen the rule of law and ensure the protection of the fundamental rights of civilians.