Anxiety looms among embassies and Monusco agents following last week’s violent incidents in Kinshasa. In response to calls from two regime-affiliated preachers, protesters denounced the “silence” and “complicity” of the international community regarding armed group violence in the country’s east. In efforts to reassure diplomats, authorities have implemented additional security measures.
On Monday, February 12th, classes at the Prince-de-Liège High School in Kinshasa, DRC, will not be held. The Belgian institution has decided to close its doors in consultation with the Belgian embassy due to fears of further violence. Several embassies and international organizations have also advised their personnel against using official vehicles on Kinshasa’s roads.
Heightened Alert
Following the vandalism of several Monusco vehicles on Saturday, February 10th, the United Nations has urged its staff in the capital to exercise utmost vigilance.
A senior figure in the Congolese opposition condemns what he describes as “an escalation.” He asserts that the protesters are supporters closely aligned with the current government, which he accuses of attempting to silence often critical diplomats. “This has nothing to do with a spontaneous expression of public sentiment,” argues another senior figure in Kinshasa. Meanwhile, the government denounces the violence and reinforces security measures around embassies and the Monusco.