DRC: Increased security arrangements in front of embassies following Saturday’s violent demonstration
The heart of Kinshasa pulsed with anger last Saturday as Congolese citizens expressed their outrage at the atrocities unfolding in the east of the DRC. The streets became a stage for a demonstration that, while initially peaceful, quickly escalated into flaming barricades and burned diplomatic vehicles in front of several embassies, including that of France.
Protesters accused diplomatic representatives of maintaining ties with the regime of Paul Kagame and the M23, who are responsible for the daily tragedies affecting the Congolese population.
In response, the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo announced this Monday, February 12, the reinforcement of security measures at embassies and installations of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).
During an emergency meeting, Vice Prime Minister, Minister of Interior and Security, Peter KAZADI KANKONDE, took steps to calm the situation.
«There’s no need to maintain tension in the capital of our country. We have taken certain measures, including strengthening security around embassies and MONUSCO installations. Law enforcement is deployed to sensitive areas», said Peter Kazadi.
The government strongly condemned these acts of violence, promising a thorough investigation to shed light on these incidents.
It emphasizes that foreign diplomats and MONUSCO personnel, as well as their facilities and vehicles, should not be targeted under any circumstances.
On the other hand, Bintou Keita, Head of MONUSCO, strongly condemned the attacks against the mission’s personnel, warning that such assaults could be deemed war crimes, jeopardizing the mission’s vital support to the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC).
The government calls for restraint and insists on the need to inform the relevant authorities in advance of any demonstration to ensure proper supervision.
It commended the swift response of the Congolese National Police and Security Services while appealing for wisdom from all.
Yann ETERNEL
