UN says 'violent demonstrations' in Congo targeting its offices, several embassies

HAMILTON, Canada

The UN on Tuesday reported violent demonstrations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), with protesters targeting the organization's offices, embassies, and other sites in the capital Kinshasa.

UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said at a news conference that Secretary General Antonio Guterres spoke by phone in two separate calls, one with President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and then with President Paul Kagame of Rwanda.

"Obviously, they discussed the ongoing situation in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in his call with President Kagame, there was also a special emphasis on the need to protect civilians in that area," Dujarric said.

Asked about the outcome of the conversations, Dujarric said resolving the crisis would take time and commitment to political solutions.

"The crisis in the eastern of the Congo has been going on for decades. It's not going to be solved in 24-hours," he added.

Citing the Luanda process as a promising framework, he said: "There are numerous processes we have seen, notably the Luanda process, which had made headway. We would want to see the parties recommit to that."

Established in 2022, Luanda process aimed at de-escalation of tensions and finding lasting peace between the DRC and Rwanda.

Dujarric said the demonstrations have turned "violent," with demonstrators attacking UN peacekeeping offices and other agency premises.

"Demonstrators setting fire outside of UN premises, both the peacekeeping and some of our agencies, as well as targeting several embassies. Looting has also been reported in Kinshasa," he said.

Noting that the UN is coordinating with other stakeholders to manage the situation, he said: "We're also in touch with the French authorities, who've also been in contact with different sides."

Asked about UN's expectations from France regarding the situation, Dujarric said: "Anyone who can be helpful, we welcome any immediate help."

"Though there is, as I said, a very well established political process; the Luanda process. We want the parties to recommit to that, and efforts by countries in the region and beyond should be to push in that direction," he said.

Earlier on Monday, M23 rebels, who are allegedly backed by Rwanda, claimed to have taken control of eastern Goma city, while Kinshasa claimed Rwandan forces were present.

So far, at least 25 people have been killed in Goma and nine in Rwanda. Hundreds have been injured in the ongoing clashes.

Locals say both government forces and rebels control parts of the city of 3 million people, including internally displaced persons.