The massacres in Goma in August 2023: a cry of distress from the Congolese people
Last Wednesday, August 30, the city of Goma, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, was the scene of horrible and unbearable massacres. The images of violence and death broadcast deeply shocked the Congolese people, already bruised by years of conflict and suffering. But what makes this situation even more tragic is that these atrocities were not committed by foreign armed groups or occupying forces, but by the Congolese Republican Guard’s own soldiers.
These massacres took place during a peaceful demonstration organized by Congolese to denounce the occupation of their territory by Rwanda and the passivity of MONUSCO, the United Nations peacekeeping mission. It is a dark and painful day that the Congolese people will never forget.
Faced with this terrifying situation and the growing insecurity in the country, it is time for the international community to take strong action. The United Nations Security Council must act without delay to protect the Congolese people and restore peace in the Great Lakes region. It is crucial to withdraw MONUSCO, which has proven powerless, and to establish a new mission with fighting forces capable of confronting current challenges.
Furthermore, it is essential that elements of the East Africa Community, some of whom are responsible for the destabilization of Congo, leave Congolese soil. There can be no real stability and peace until these persistent foreign intrusions are stopped.
The Congolese people are in mortal danger. Too much blood and tears have been shed. The elections scheduled for the end of this year are of crucial importance. It is imperative that the electoral process is transparent, inclusive and respects the will of the Congolese people. Political shenanigans and attempts at cheating must be denounced and fought to restore confidence in the young Congolese democracy.
Faced with this critical situation, it is also essential that President Félix Tshisekedi realizes the seriousness of the situation and stops playing with fire. The Congolese people can no longer tolerate suffering and political manipulation. It is time to face the consequences of its actions and truly work for the well-being of the Congolese people.
In this difficult time, the solidarity and support of the Congolese people must be accompanied by the efforts of religious organizations and spiritual authorities. It is essential to audit the electoral register, ensure the transparency of the electoral process and guarantee reliable results office by office. Only these measures will make it possible to rectify past errors and preserve the young Congolese democracy..
The Congo is at a crucial turning point in its history. The challenges facing the country are unprecedentedly serious. But with collective and determined action by the international community, the Congolese people and their leaders, it is possible to restore peace, security and justice in this tormented region. The time has come to act, to take concrete steps and to never forget the lives lost in this tragedy.