Protests erupted in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) capital, Kinshasa, on Tuesday, according to claims from the region, demonstrators targeted embassies of France, Belgium, the United States, Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya. Police used tear gas to disperse the crowds after embassies of several nations were attacked.
The protesters accused certain countries of supporting Rwanda’s alleged backing of the M23 rebels, who recently captured Goma, a key city in eastern DRC.
France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot confirmed on social media that the French embassy in Kinshasa was attacked and briefly set ablaze. The fire was later brought under control.
Public Outcry and Escalation
“The people of Congo are tired. How many times should we die?” one protester told Reuters, reflecting widespread frustration. Protesters burned tires and clashed with riot police, leading to scenes of unrest across Kinshasa. Witnesses reported looting at the Ugandan embassy and attacks on the Kenyan embassy, with soldiers allegedly failing to intervene.
The demonstrations were sparked by the M23 rebels’ recent advance into Goma on Monday, marking a significant escalation in the decades-long conflict in eastern DRC.
Call for Peaceful Protest
In a televised statement, Communications Minister Patrick Muyaya appealed for calm, urging protesters to express their anger peacefully and avoid damaging consular facilities. He later announced that the situation had been brought under control.
“We have every right to express our anger, but let’s do it peacefully. Let’s not attack the consular infrastructures of countries accredited in Congo,” Muyaya said.