Minembwe: Peaceful Protest Held as DRC Celebrates Independence Day, Residents Call for an End to Alleged Attacks
While the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was celebrating its Independence Day yesterday, a peaceful protest took place in Minembwe Centre, organized by residents who say they represent the Banyamulenge, BaShi, and BaFurero communities living in the area.
The demonstration aimed to express serious security concerns, with residents stating that in recent days there have been continued attacks allegedly carried out by various armed forces and groups, including the FARDC, Burundian troops, as well as the Wazalendo militia and the FDLR.
Participants in the protest claimed that these alleged attacks have had severe consequences on civilian life, including the destruction of houses, damage to infrastructure such as health centers and schools, and reports of loss of life.
Some residents emphasized that these ongoing incidents are having a significant impact on their lives, calling for an independent and thorough investigation to establish the truth behind the allegations and to implement strong measures to protect civilians. Protesters carried placards bearing strong messages, including: “We call for an end to the alleged attacks carried out by FARDC forces and their allies, the Burundian army, Wazalendo, and the FDLR.”
They added: “The attacks must stop immediately and without delay.”
However, the protest remained peaceful, with participants expressing their views calmly while calling for an end to all reported military activities in the Minembwe area, particularly drone strikes alleged to be targeting civilian-populated zones.
Residents said the purpose of the demonstration was to highlight that, even as the country celebrates its 66th Independence Anniversary, people in Minembwe feel their security concerns deserve special attention.
As of now, no official statement has been issued by military authorities or government representatives regarding the allegations raised by the residents, while both sides continue to exchange accusations concerning the security situation in South Kivu.