World

Chaos Erupts in Kinshasa: Protests Against International Inaction Ignite Violence

2025-01-29

Author: Ting

A wave of chaotic protests swept through the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Kinshasa, as demonstrators took to the streets to voice their outrage over the alleged inaction of the international community in mitigating the escalating conflict in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province.

On a tumultuous Tuesday, hundreds of frustrated citizens heeding the rallying cry of a youth movement known as "Paralyse the City" gathered in the upscale Gombe district, unleashing their fury against several foreign embassies. Among the diplomatic missions targeted were those of Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, France, Belgium, and the United States. The protesters accused Rwanda and Uganda of supporting the M23 rebel group, which has gained control over Goma after a rapid offensive reportedly backed by Rwandan troops.

As tensions flared, demonstrators took control of Goma’s airport amidst violent skirmishes, asserting that their country had "had enough" of foreign interference and neglect. “Enough is enough, we’re going to destroy everything here. Today, we’re going to finish with Rwanda,” one protester shouted, drawing cheers from the crowd. The stakes were high as thick smoke filled the air from burning tires, further adding to the chaos.

In a striking demonstration of anger, the perimeter wall of the French embassy was set ablaze, with graffiti scrawled across it reading, “Betrayal over a long period of time… let’s end it now.” The unrest did not stop there; protesters also looted the Ugandan embassy, carrying away furniture as they rode away on motorcycles and in taxis, further exacerbating the sense of lawlessness.

The situation in Goma has rapidly deteriorated, with reports indicating that M23 fighters have engaged in violent clashes with Congolese forces, leading to significant civilian distress and displacement. International calls for peace and dialogue have intensified, but the effectiveness of these responses has been called into question, igniting the demonstrators' frustrations.

As the violence escalates, analysts warn that continued unrest could lead to wider regional instability, with historical tensions between the DRC and its neighbors remaining a critical factor. Diplomatic solutions appear necessary, but whether the global community will act swiftly enough to quell the simmering crisis remains uncertain.

In the wake of these events, the world watches anxiously; will this turmoil lead to meaningful intervention, or is it merely the prelude to further chaos? Stay tuned as this story continues to develop.