Deputy Carly Nzanzu Kasivita, representing Beni in the North Kivu province, has called for the establishment of a local defense to complement military operations against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). He made this appeal during a general debate on the extension of the state of siege in North Kivu and Ituri provinces. Nzanzu Kasivita expressed concerns over the government's reliance on inaccurate information, which hampers effective governance and security operations.
Nzanzu Kasivita criticized the government's handling of the state of siege, citing the spread of false information and poor governance in affected entities. He also highlighted the heavy tax burden on local populations and economic operators. The deputy stressed that the people of North Kivu and Ituri expect concrete solutions to their daily challenges. He emphasized the need for a more effective approach to address the security situation.
The deputy recalled a recent meeting with the Interior Minister and the military governor of North Kivu, where incorrect information was presented. He cited the example of the Cantine area, where an ADF attack occurred shortly after assurances were given that the group's operational capacity had been significantly reduced. Nzanzu Kasivita expressed frustration over the difficulties faced by the Justice Minister in presenting an accurate security situation report for North Kivu.
Nzanzu Kasivita is not the first to suggest a local defense approach. He noted that several notable figures and personalities from North Kivu have previously recommended this strategy to the government, but without success. He drew parallels with Somalia, where local defense forces have been effective in combating extremist groups. The deputy emphasized that local defense is not a replacement for military efforts, but a necessary complement.
Beyond security concerns, Nzanzu Kasivita criticized the governance of provinces under the state of siege. He alleged that many administrators focus more on revenue mobilization and tax collection than on providing services to the population. The deputy urged the government to help the state of siege regime govern more effectively and address the suffering of the population.
Nzanzu Kasivita also highlighted the coexistence of different administrative systems in North Kivu, particularly in areas not controlled by armed groups. He suggested that the government accept this reality and work with local stakeholders to improve governance. The deputy emphasized the need for a more nuanced approach to addressing the complex security and governance challenges in the region.
The state of siege in North Kivu and Ituri provinces has been extended, with the government citing security concerns. Nzanzu Kasivita's proposal for a local defense force has sparked debate, with some arguing that it could be an effective way to tackle the ADF threat. Others have expressed concerns about the potential risks and challenges associated with such an approach.
Key points
- Deputy Carly Nzanzu Kasivita urges the government to establish a local defense to tackle ADF attacks in North Kivu and Ituri provinces.
