Religious leaders in the DRC convened for a prayer gathering in Kinshasa on February 3, 2023, following the rebellion takeover of Goma. They called for unity against perceived Rwandan aggression and urged prayer for peace. A crisis management plan was presented to the DRC President to address national cohesion amidst the worsening conflict. Religious groups also demanded international action against M23 and promised protests if no measures are taken.
On February 3, amid rising tensions following the capture of Goma by M23 rebels, the Interfaith Platform called for a prayer gathering in Kinshasa. Leaders from various Christian denominations and the President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) convened to discuss a plan to address the crisis. They emphasized the urgent need for national unity and collective prayer to combat the aggression perceived as rooted in Rwandan occupation.
During the gathering at the National Assembly, Ediba Yamapia highlighted the critical situation, stating, “The hour is critical. We are a nation of believers, and… we will overcome.” The prayer initiative originated from a request by Justice Minister Constant Mutamba, who urged religious groups to pray for peace and to resist the escalated violence in eastern DRC.
Amidst the escalating conflict over Goma, religious leaders gathered to express a united front against division. They called for financial support for the Congolese army and highlighted the importance of solidarity during wartime. Church leaders condemned the aggressions against their nation and urged a stop to foreign exploitations of their resources, while reinforcing support for the national armed forces and the president.
The assembly concluded with calls for the international community to act decisively against M23 and its supporters, urging targeted sanctions to pressure a resolution. They warned that if tangible actions were not taken within 72 hours, further peaceful protests would ensue, including sit-ins.
Notably absent from the prayer gathering, representatives from the National Episcopal Conference of Congo and the Church of Christ in Congo presented a crisis management plan directly to President Félix Tshisekedi. They discussed strengthening national cohesion, underscoring the urgency for unity within the DRC as the situation deteriorates.
As Kinshasa responds to the situation in Goma, the two main churches reiterated their commitment to peace and compassion for affected populations in the conflict zones. They acknowledged the gravity of the crisis and pledged to reflect on strategies that would address the complex issues faced by the DRC moving forward. Bishop Willy Ngumbi of Goma also warned that famine is beginning to take hold in the region, further exacerbating humanitarian concerns.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been enduring ongoing conflicts, particularly in the eastern regions such as North Kivu, where Goma is situated. The recent occupation of Goma by M23 rebel forces, allegedly backed by Rwanda, has escalated tensions and violence, prompting religious leaders to take a united stand. Their response involves organizing prayer gatherings and discussions with government officials to create strategies aimed at restoring peace and national cohesion. The engagement of various religious communities highlights the critical role of faith-based organizations in addressing conflict and advocating for action against perceived aggressions.
The interfaith prayer gathering signifies a collective effort by DRC’s religious leaders to address the severe crisis following the fall of Goma. Their calls for unity, support of the national army, and demands for international intervention reflect a determined response to external aggression. Without immediate actions from the international community, these leaders are prepared to escalate their protests, emphasizing the urgency of restoring peace and ensuring the well-being of the Congolese people.
Original Source: international.la-croix.com
