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KINSHASA. – Demonstrations have been taking place in recent days in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s capital Kinshasa, with crowds protesting against Western governments.
The protesters accuse Western governments of failing to use their influence to curb violence in the east of the country and, specifically, prevent Rwanda’s presumed involvement in the conflict.
Demonstrators gathered in front of the embassies of the United States and other Western countries and throughout the city centre over the weekend.
On Monday, they burnt the US and Belgian flags, while one crowd burnt tires in front of the UN MONUSCO headquarters.
Police responded by firing tear gas, while many international schools and foreign-owned shops remained closed.
The DRC’s Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula on Sunday assured Western diplomats and UN officials that the government will protect them.
The protests come following advances by the M23 rebel group in recent weeks.
Hundreds of thousands of people have fled their homes in the Masisi region to seek refuge in Goma. – africanews.com
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