01 Aug 2022 | 03:20 PM UTC
DRC: Further anti-MONUSCO protests likely to continue in North and South Kivu provinces through at least mid-August /update 3
Anti-MONUSCO protests to continue in North and South Kivu provinces, DRC, through at least mid-August following unrest in the area late July
Event
Protests denouncing the presence of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) will likely continue through at least mid-August in North and South Kivu provinces. A similar protest took place in Beni Aug. 1 to denounce a July 31 incident where peacekeepers used live ammunition on demonstrators and local police at Kasindi border, killing two people and injuring ten others.
Anti-MONUSCO protests took place in late July in Uvira, Fizi, Bukavu, and Mwenga, in South Kivu and Goma and Butembo, North Kivu to demand the departure of MONUSCO due to its perceived inaction in the region to stem insecurity. Protests erupted into violence in numerous locations with at least 22 people, including three members of MONUSCO, being killed and 60 more injured July 25-27.
Increased security measures and localized road disruptions are likely in impacted towns in South and North Kivu over the coming days. Further clashes with security forces are possible. Similar protests are likely in the coming days and weeks across the country, notably in the conflict-impacted eastern region of the DRC.
Advice
Avoid all demonstrations. If violence breaks out, leave the area immediately, and take shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.
