DRC: in Goma, a dead city day operation to challenge the East African force

maryam lahbal
maryam lahbal
2 Min Read
drc 2

In Goma, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), citizen movements are calling for a dead city operation for seven days, starting on February 6, 2023. They denounce the inactivity of the regional force of the EAC (the community of Africa) against the M23 rebels. Demonstrators have taken to the streets and in the city the tension is high.

Images of barricades, and blocked axes in Goma were visible on social networks this Monday morning. Several residents confirm that activity is very slow on February 6, 2023, almost at a standstill: no school, most stores have remained closed and little traffic. There are almost no taxis and motorcycle taxis in town.

Protesters also came out to show their anger at the inaction of the East African force deployed since the fall. They accuse him of not carrying out military actions to fight the M23 rebellion which, during this time, has gained ground: after Rutshuru, the clashes have reached the territory of Masisi.

The military governor of Goma calls for calm

Facing the crowd, the military governor – Goma is under siege and there is no longer any civil administration – came to try to appeal for calm. And the protesters asked Constant Ndima that the soldiers of the regional force go to the front with the Congolese soldiers.

Tensions were also on the side of the border posts with Rwanda where demonstrators tried to pass on the Rwandan side. They were pushed back by the border police.

On the front, fighting continues between the Congolese army and the M23, particularly in the territory of Masisi. Clashes that go against the ceasefire decided by the heads of state of East Africa, including the DRC and Rwanda, meeting in Burundi on February 4, 2023.

Maryam Lahbal

Share this Article
Leave a comment