Religious leaders in the DRC organized a prayer gathering in Kinshasa to respond to the aggressive takeover of Goma by M23 forces. The event aimed to unify citizens and address the escalating conflict, with calls for international intervention and support for the Congolese military. CENCO and other church leaders also met with President Tshisekedi to discuss a crisis exit plan amid growing humanitarian concerns such as famine.
In the wake of Goma’s capture by M23 fighters, religious leaders from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) convened a prayer gathering on February 3 in Kinshasa. This gathering followed a meeting with the DRC President to discuss a crisis exit plan. Ediba Yamapia, a representative of the Pentecostal Church, declared the country faces severe aggression, emphasizing the need for collective prayer as a means to overcome these challenges.
As the violence escalated in North Kivu, Minister of Justice Constant Mutamba urged religious groups to organize a day of prayer against Rwandan aggression and seek peace. The interfaith gathering highlighted the importance of unity during wartime, with leaders calling for financial support for the Congolese army and urging believers to set aside their differences.
Revival church leaders condemned the ongoing aggression toward the DRC and made a collective plea for the international community to go beyond mere condemnations. They demanded targeted sanctions against M23 and its Rwandan allies, warning that failure to see action within 72 hours would lead them to escalate peaceful demonstrations aimed at closing suspected support embassies.
While the Catholic Church’s National Episcopal Conference of Congo (CENCO) met with President Félix Tshisekedi separately, they presented a crisis exit plan focusing on national cohesion. Their efforts were met with encouragement from the President. CENCO also expressed solidarity with the suffering populations in North and South Kivu, urging for reflection amid the intense emotional and devastating situation.
Bishop Willy Ngumbi from Goma has reported the grave reality of increasing famine in the region, showcasing the dire consequences of the ongoing conflict. The religious leaders are deeply engaged in efforts aimed at restoring peace and unity in the country, as well as addressing the humanitarian crisis persisting as a result of the unrest.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been experiencing significant turmoil, particularly in the eastern regions like North Kivu, where territorial disputes have led to escalated violence. The M23 militia, along with their Rwandan allies, have captured Goma, prompting a severe humanitarian crisis characterized by displacement and famine. In response to the crisis, religious leaders have united to advocate for peace through prayers and actionable measures while addressing the need for international support against existing aggressors.
The recent prayer gathering in Kinshasa illuminates the pivotal role of religious leaders in responding to the crisis in Goma. With a focus on collective action against aggression and a call for international intervention, they emphasize unity amid division and the urgent need for humanitarian assistance. The proactive measures, including the proposed exit plan presented to the President, underscore a concerted effort to restore peace and security in the region.
Original Source: international.la-croix.com
