Following the conclusion of the ninth Francophone Games, which transpired from July 28th to August 6th in Kinshasa, a significant shift is occurring within the Congolese political landscape. The previously observed truce within the Congolese opposition is now coming to an end. This shift is notably attributed to the distressing events that unfolded during the games’ timeframe, where numerous civilians tragically lost their lives across two provinces, casting a somber shadow over the capital.
Amid these dire circumstances, the Lamuka coalition, spearheaded by the prominent opposition figure Martin Fayulu, is emphatically advocating for the lifting of the state of siege that has persisted since May 2021. According to the coalition’s spokesperson, the opposition firmly believes that this proclamation has inadvertently exacerbated the prevailing security crisis.
As the nation’s attention was captivated by the Francophone Games, a starkly contrasting narrative was unfolding in the eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Reports have emerged from the provinces of North Kivu and Ituri, shedding light on the harrowing reality faced by the local populace—massacres orchestrated by rebel forces. The Lamuka coalition, led by Martin Fayulu, has voiced its concerns and outrage over this alarming state of affairs.
A grim toll emerges, in Ituri, fifteen Congolese lives were ruthlessly taken, while in North Kivu, several more perished. In light of these deeply troubling events, the fundamental question arises, what rationale underpins the perpetuation of the state of siege, which has inadvertently fomented a climate of insecurity? The Lamuka coalition asserts that the foremost duty of the state lies in safeguarding its citizens, not orchestrating festivities. Urgency underscores their call to dismantle the current state of siege and replace it with a more pragmatic, adaptable, and protective security framework.
Even amid the state of siege, the province of North Kivu still grapples with pockets of territory under Rwandan occupation, while other areas remain influenced by the East African Community (EAC) countries. In this complex tapestry, the Democratic Republic of the Congo finds itself at a crossroads.
Prince Epenge, the articulate spokesperson for the Lamuka coalition’s Fayulu faction and the esteemed leader of the “Action pour la démocratie et le développement au Congo” (ADD-Congo) political party, underscores the prevailing sense of abandonment that permeates the nation. The Congolese people, he laments, cannot depend on the leadership of Mr. Félix and his administration to navigate these challenging waters. As a result, the call to action resonates more profoundly than ever, urging a comprehensive reevaluation of the state’s strategy to ensure the security and prosperity of its citizens.