Protests in Kinshasa erupted against the M23 rebel offensive, targeting embassies and expressing anger over international inaction. Demonstrators vandalized several diplomatic missions and burned tyres in response to increased violence in Goma. The protests highlighted frustrations with Rwanda and Uganda’s alleged support for the rebels and demanded greater global responsiveness to the crisis.
On Tuesday, protests erupted in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, as demonstrators expressed outrage against the perceived lack of action from the international community regarding the M23 rebel offensive. Rioters vandalized embassies, set fire to tyres, and stormed diplomatic missions in reaction to the ongoing conflict in Goma, where the M23 armed group has made significant advances.
Hundreds of protesters responded to a call from a youth collective known as “Paralyse the City,” occupying the upscale district of Gombe. They specifically targeted embassies from Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, France, Belgium, and the United States, accusing Rwanda and Uganda of providing support to the M23 rebels, which recently took control of Goma and its airport amidst fierce confrontations.
The demonstrators vociferously condemned the diplomatic inaction of other nations involved, culminating in aggressive rhetoric and destructive actions. Thick smoke surged from burning tyres, and the walls of the French embassy were defaced with graffiti that read: “Betrayal over a long period of time … let’s end it now.” Some protesters looted the Ugandan embassy, absconding with furniture on motorcycles and taxis.
Rejecting the situation, an angry protester exclaimed, “Enough is enough, we’re going to destroy everything here. Today, we’re going to finish with Rwanda,” receiving applause from fellow demonstrators. This highlights the escalating frustration and desperation among the citizens of Kinshasa regarding their government’s response and the international community’s perceived neglect in the conflict.
The ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly in eastern regions like North Kivu, has involved numerous armed groups, including the M23 rebels. This rebel group has been accused of receiving support from neighboring countries such as Rwanda and Uganda. The escalation of violence and the humanitarian crisis have spurred protests in response to what is viewed as inadequate international intervention. Much of the current unrest reflects growing frustration over the long-standing instability and violence impacting civilians in the area.
The protests in Kinshasa signify a critical moment for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where increasing public dissatisfaction with international and governmental responses to the M23 offensive has led to heightened tensions. The aggressive demonstrations against several embassies underscore the plea for action against what citizens perceive as ongoing regional betrayals and failures in diplomacy. As the situation unfolds, the international community faces pressure to address the complexities of the conflict and its broader implications for regional stability.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
