Youth in Isiro Rally to Honor Lumumba’s Legacy and Denounce East Occupation
In a powerful display of unity and determination, young people from various youth organizations, citizen movements, and advocacy groups in Isiro marched on Thursday, January 16th, to honor national heroes Laurent-Désiré Kabila and Patrice Emery Lumumba. The march took place in Isiro, the provincial capital of Haut-Uele, to commemorate the sacrifices made by these iconic figures for a united and peaceful Congo.
Call for Peace and Liberation
The organizers of the event aimed to remind everyone of the legacies of Patrice Emery Lumumba and Mzee Laurent-Désiré Kabila, who dedicated their lives to ensuring every Congolese citizen could live in a nation filled with peace and unity. The participants also sought to denounce the Rwandan aggression and their allies from the M-23 and AFC in the eastern part of the country. They demanded the liberation of territories occupied by rebels from the M-23-AFC-RDF alliance, including Masisi, Rutshuru, and Nyiragongo.
During the march, protesters carried banners with powerful messages such as “Enough is enough, we are tired of war in Congo,” “Free Masisi, Rutshuru, Lubero, Nyiragongo,” and “Our heroes P.E. Lumumba and Laurent Kabila are symbols of peace. Let’s be inspired by them to preserve national unity.” The procession wound through the city’s main streets, culminating at the governor’s roundabout, where they read out their declaration.
A Call for Collective Action
Pascal-Noël Nakolite, the coordinator of the resilient youth association and spokesperson for the event, emphasized the necessity of collective and ongoing engagement for peace. He highlighted the significant security challenges that have plagued the country for over two decades, especially in the East, where armed conflicts continue to devastate communities, resulting in millions of deaths and massive displacement of Congolese populations.
Nakolite called for the unconditional liberation of territories controlled by the M-23 and urged for inclusive national dialogue among all concerned parties to find lasting solutions to the conflicts that have plagued the country. He reiterated unwavering support for the Congolese armed forces and fellow citizens who bravely defend the nation’s integrity.
Responsibility and Resolution
Furthermore, the youth reminded the Congolese government of its duty to reclaim areas under negative forces’ control. They commended the provincial government of Haut-Uele, led by Jean Bakomito, for efforts to resolve border conflicts between the Zande and Logo communities in the Sambia mining area of Dungu territory. These conflicts recently led to the death of four individuals, along with the destruction of homes and significant material damage.
On Friday, January 17th, the city’s youth organizations, supported by the Provincial Youth Council, will host a conference at the University of Uele to commemorate the DRC’s national heroes and conclude the planned activities.
This strong demonstration of solidarity and advocacy by Isiro’s youth serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for peace and unity in a nation marred by conflict and division. The commitment shown by these young individuals to honor their country’s past while striving for a better future is truly inspiring. As we reflect on their actions, let us all consider how we can contribute to building a more peaceful and united society, following in the footsteps of those who sacrificed everything for the greater good.