Protests in Butembo, eastern DRC, showcased widespread anger against Rwanda for its alleged support of M23 rebels during ongoing negotiations. Citizens rallied in favor of the Congolese Army, demanding stronger military actions against both M23 and the ADF, with many expressing fears of political maneuvers undermining their security. Local leaders called for unyielding support of the military to combat these threats, reflecting the populace’s urgent need for stability in the region.
In the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), significant public demonstrations took place in Butembo, where hundreds of citizens voiced their opposition to negotiations with M23 rebels and expressed their frustration against Rwanda, whom they accuse of backing the insurgents. Protesters rallied in support of the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC), demanding an intensification of military actions against rebel groups occupying their homeland. Frank Mukendi, a participant in the demonstrations, stated, “We stand behind them, we support them, and we call on them to launch offensives. From today, we intend to work with them to fight the enemy. Our regions are occupied, and that is why we are asking them. We also ask them to reject any order to withdraw without justification, especially politically motivated messages.” This unrest coincided with ongoing negotiations between the DRC and Rwanda, aimed at addressing the troubling security situation. Local citizen Muhindo Shafi criticized Rwanda’s narrative regarding the FDLR, perceiving it as a distraction from the more pressing issues at hand, urging government support for the military. He asserted, “Rwanda claims every day that there are FDLR members in the DRC and that we need to track them down. That’s Rwanda’s daily argument, but I see it as a total distraction, which is why we keep asking our government to support our republican army, the FARDC, for lasting peace.” The protests also highlighted the ongoing violence perpetrated by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in North Kivu, which has led to a staggering toll of over 17,000 deaths since October 2014. Activist Rose Kahavu lamented the brutal attacks, demanding action: “We are being massacred in Beni, in the Lubero territory. We say enough is enough. Provide all necessary means to the FARDC so they can strike against the M23 and ADF rebels. Today, I am protesting to say no to negotiations.” Amid this turbulent backdrop, joint military operations are being conducted by both Congolese and Ugandan forces, although these efforts have yet to yield significant results in stabilizing the area. In a recent meeting on October 13, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi underscored the necessity for enhanced military collaboration with Uganda to combat the persistent insecurity affecting the region.
In recent years, the eastern DRC has been embroiled in conflict, primarily attributed to the presence of various rebel groups, including the M23 and the ADF, which have been linked to external influences, particularly from neighboring Rwanda. The region has experienced severe human rights violations and violence, leading to mass displacements and significant loss of life. The Congolese government has engaged in negotiations with Rwanda to seek peace, but many local communities remain skeptical and fearful of continued insurgency, expressing their sentiments through organized protests. The civil society’s demands emphasize the need for robust military action against these threats rather than political discussions perceived as ineffective.
The protests in Butembo reflect a deep-seated frustration among local populations in eastern DRC towards both foreign influence and internal political negotiations perceived as inadequate in addressing the grave security situation. The demonstrators’ calls for intensified military action underscore their urgent need for stability and safety, as they face ongoing violence from both the M23 rebels and the ADF. The ongoing military operations and the collaboration between the DRC and Uganda may yield some hope for improvement, yet the public’s demand for a decisive stance against rebel forces will require substantial commitment and resources from their government.
Original Source: www.africanews.com
