The civil society of Ituri province in the northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo has rejected attempts to attribute armed violence to specific communities. In a joint statement, they emphasized that armed groups do not represent any particular community and called for a distinction to be made between combatants and innocent civilians. This statement was made in response to growing concerns over the security situation in the region.
The Convention for Popular Revolution (CRP) and the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (CODECO) are among the groups mentioned as being incorrectly associated with specific communities. According to Déogratias Bungamuzi, president of the Provincial Youth Council, these groups are not representative of any community, and individuals or groups committing acts of violence should be held accountable, not entire communities.
The Union of Cultural Associations for the Development of Ituri (UNADI), the Provincial Youth Council, and other civil society structures expressed their indignation over the deteriorating security situation around Bunia and in the territories of Djugu and Mambasa. Bungamuzi called on the authorities to ensure the protection of civilians and to clearly distinguish between combatants and innocent people.
The civil society groups urged the authorities to take action to prevent the escalation of violence and to promote peace in the region. They also called on the CRP to cease hostilities, respect the unilateral ceasefire, and adhere to the peace process. Additionally, they requested that CODECO respect the commitments made during the Aru 1 and Aru 2 meetings.
The conflict in Ituri has resulted in significant humanitarian concerns, with many civilians affected by the violence. The civil society groups emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict, one that does not involve attributing blame to specific communities. They called for a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of the violence.
The situation in Ituri has been a concern for humanitarian organizations and the international community. Efforts to broker peace and stabilize the region have been ongoing, with various stakeholders involved. The civil society groups' statement highlights the need for a collaborative approach to address the complex security challenges in the region.
The rejection of community-based armed violence by civil society groups in Ituri is a significant development in the region. It emphasizes the need for a nuanced understanding of the conflict and a comprehensive approach to address its root causes. The authorities have been called upon to take action to protect civilians and promote peace in the region.
Key points
- Civil society groups in Ituri condemn attempts to attribute armed violence to specific communities.
- The groups call for a distinction to be made between combatants and innocent civilians.
- The authorities have been urged to take action to protect civilians and promote peace in the region.
