Category: International

The Democratic Republic of Congo is faced with inter-community tensions that have led to violent conflicts and massive population displacements. The assailants of the Yaka/Mobondo group are responsible for numerous violent incursions into several provinces, as well as terrorist attacks which have caused the death of several people. Despite the measures taken by the government to ensure the safety of the population, the attacks continue. This situation demands a call for action from the international community to support local actors in their efforts to preserve stability in the region.

The recent coup in Niger led to the interruption of the broadcasting of RFI and France 24 programmes, thus depriving Nigerien citizens of access to free and impartial information. These media play a crucial role in the dissemination of diversified and reliable information in the region. This censorship is an attack on freedom of information and calls into question respect for fundamental rights and democratic principles in the country. Despite this, there are alternatives such as short waves, satellite receptions and online platforms to allow Nigerien citizens to continue to inform themselves independently. The protection and preservation of freedom of information is essential to ensure the proper functioning of democracy and the development of an informed and engaged society.

The recent handover and takeover ceremony of the Board of Directors of the Régie des Voies Aériennes (RVA) in the Democratic Republic of Congo marked the passing of the baton between the outgoing team and the incoming team. While Alphonse Shungu Mahungu remains Managing Director of RVA, Mayaya Kawaasa joins the team as Deputy Managing Director. The Chairman of the Board of Directors is now Tryphon Kin-Kiey Mulumba, who replaces Bienvenu Liyota Ndjoli. The RVA has succeeded in getting out of its immobility thanks to the use of public funds and its own means, by modernizing the airport infrastructures and the air navigation aid equipment. Despite the challenges encountered, the operational capacities of the RVA are maintained thanks to the competent personnel and a social peace reigns within the company. The new management team is committed to working in the interest of the RVA and its staff, in order to ensure its development and sustainability.

Boko Haram attacks in the Lake Chad region continue to cause terror and violence among local populations. Recently, a series of attacks took place in the locality of Darak, killing five civilians. Fishermen seem to be particularly targeted, with kidnappings and brutal executions. Boko Haram is strengthening its presence in the region, using Darak as a rear base and even demanding taxes from fishermen. The security situation is urgent and concrete measures must be taken to protect civilians. International cooperation is essential to fight Boko Haram and put an end to this terror.

The international sanctions following the coup in Niger are beginning to have serious consequences for the population. Food prices are rising and there is a shortage of basic necessities. This situation makes access to food increasingly difficult for Nigeriens. In addition, the blockade of exports and imports leads to the disappearance of certain products from the markets. The sanctions also have a significant financial impact, with the suspension of World Bank disbursements and the cessation of development aid to several European countries. Despite these difficulties, some international aid offers hope for the future. It is crucial that the international community find solutions to mitigate the impact of the sanctions on the population of Niger.

The United States announced nearly $48 million in new humanitarian assistance to address the crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This aid will support displaced populations in the east of the country, who live in precarious conditions without access to food, drinking water and medical care. USAID funding will be used to provide emergency food assistance, health care, psychosocial support, and materials for shelters. This demonstrates the continued commitment of the United States to assist the Congolese people and support efforts to overcome this crisis.

Since April 15, 2023, Sudan has been the scene of a chaotic situation and unprecedented violence. The army and paramilitaries are violently attacking the civilian population, committing war crimes and abuses of unprecedented brutality. Women and girls are particularly vulnerable, suffering extreme sexual violence. Infrastructure is being looted and destroyed, aggravating the already precarious humanitarian situation. Millions of people are forced to flee and find themselves in a humanitarian crisis. The responsibilities of the belligerents are clear, with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) primarily responsible, but also the Sudanese army. Unfortunately, civilians have no protection and are exposed to direct combat and attacks. The international community must act quickly to end these atrocities and ensure the protection of civilians. Justice must be served for those responsible for these war crimes. It is time to stop this unimaginable horror and allow Sudan to rebuild a peaceful future.

The secretary general of Udps/Tshisekedi, Augustin Kabuya, carried out a political mission to Paris and Brussels in the company of members and executives of his party. He met with delegations from several federations to discuss the state of their activities and preparations for the presidential election. The mission also allowed constructive exchanges on the perspectives of the organization with members of the Socialist International. The mission ended with a meeting with the Udps community in Belgium. This high-level mission made it possible to discuss the major current political issues and to provide guidelines for the conduct of the policy.

The Secretary General of the UDPS, Augustin Kabuya, made a working visit to Paris and Brussels, from May 19 to 26, 2023, to meet members of his party and other allied parties of the UDPS. During this visit, he granted talks with various delegations and in particular encouraged the members of the Belgian federations to show more unity and discipline. He also referred to the biblical parable of the workers of the last hour to illustrate the importance of considering all UDPS fighters, whether in opposition or in power. The SG concluded his visit by meeting the UDPS community in Belgium.

The article reports the visit of the Secretary General of Udps/Tshisekedi, Augustin Kabuya, accompanied by members of his party to Paris and Brussels in May 2023. The purpose of this trip was to meet the militants of his party, to discuss the current policy issues and provide advice. The Secretary General also attended a meeting with the Udps community of Belgium where he expressed his vision for Congo and encouraged unity within the party. This visit allowed the UDPS to strengthen its links with its activists abroad and to discuss the political future of the Democratic Republic of Congo.