Chaos Erupts in Kinshasa as Protesters Target Embassies Over Goma Conflict
Violent demonstrations swept through the upscale district of Gombe in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as protesters attacked several embassies and set burning piles of tires, denouncing the “inaction” of the international community regarding the conflict in Goma.
Protests Sparked Over Goma Crisis
On Tuesday, hundreds of demonstrators rallied in response to a “Paralyse the City” campaign organized by a youth collective. Their targets included the embassies of Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, France, Belgium, and the United States. Protesters accused Rwanda and Uganda of actively backing the M23 rebel group, which captured Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, on Sunday following a rapid offensive.
M23 Seizes Control of Goma
The M23 rebels seized control of Goma’s airport on Tuesday, following intense street battles that resulted in at least 17 casualties. This latest development has fueled local anger and frustrations towards the perceived inaction of the international community in addressing the ongoing conflict.
Embassies Under Attack
Inflamed by their grievances, demonstrators struck hard against diplomatic missions. Graffiti appeared on the perimeter wall of the French embassy, reading, “Betrayal over a long period of time… let’s end it now.” Meanwhile, the flames from burning tires and the echoes of loud shouts filled the air, symbolizing the demonstrators’ resolve to make their voices heard.
Targets and Accusations
The Rwandan embassy was a focal point of the protests, with demonstrators shouting, “Enough is enough, we’re going to destroy everything here. Today, we’re going to finish with Rwanda,” raising emotional responses from the crowd. In addition to striking the Rwandan and Ugandan embassies, protests extended to include the French, Belgian, and US missions as well. The looting of the Ugandan embassy saw furniture being carried away on motorcycles and taxis.
International Diplomatic Controversy
The attacks reflect deep-seated resentment in the DRC towards neighboring countries, particularly Rwanda and Uganda, that are accused of supporting the M23 rebels. This event highlights the complex and delicate nature of regional diplomacy and the consequences of perceived inaction in addressing political and humanitarian crises.
Call for Action
The unrest in Kinshasa underscores the Urgency of addressing the root causes of the conflict in Goma. International efforts must go beyond mere statements of support to concrete measures that bring peace and stability to the region. Communities and governments alike must work together to find lasting solutions to the longstanding strife.
Vandalised embassies and piles of burning tyres marked chaotic demonstrations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s capital Kinshasa to denounce the “inaction” of the international community over the conflict raging in Goma, the main city in the country’s east.
On foot or motorcycles, hundreds of angry demonstrators responding on Tuesday to the “Paralyse the City” call of a youth collective gathered in the upscale district of Gombe in the north of Kinshasa and targeted the embassies of Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, France, Belgium and the United States.
They accused Rwanda and Uganda of actively supporting the armed group M23 which, after a lightning offensive in North Kivu province with the support of Rwandan troops, entered the regional capital, Goma, on Sunday.
On Tuesday, they had taken control of its airport after raging street battles.
The demonstrators accused the other countries of diplomatic inaction.
“Enough is enough, we’re going to destroy everything here. Today, we’re going to finish with Rwanda,” shouted one demonstrator to applause in front of the building that houses the Rwandan embassy in Kinshasa.
Thick smoke billowed nearby from tyres set on fire.
The perimeter wall of the French embassy was also set on fire. Graffiti on it read: “Betrayal over a long period of time … let’s end it now.”
Protesters also targeted the embassies of Belgium and the US, and looted the Ugandan mission, taking away furniture on motorcycles and taxis.
We encourage all readers to stay informed about ongoing developments in the DRC and other regions affected by similar conflicts. Your voice and support can drive positive change.
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