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Ugandan Embassy in Congo Set Ablaze

by NBridget
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In a shocking escalation of protests in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Ugandan embassy was looted and partially set ablaze early this morning. This incident comes amid widespread anger over the recent capture of Goma by the M23 rebel group, which some locals believe has external support, including from Uganda.

The unrest began as civil society groups mobilized residents to voice their discontent over the dire security situation in Goma, the capital of North Kivu Province. Protesters, accusing Uganda of aiding the M23 rebels, stormed the embassy, carrying away furniture and setting fire to parts of the building. Videos circulating on social media platforms depict rioters vandalizing vehicles and the embassy itself, with flames visible from several sections.

Ugandan officials, including State Minister for Foreign Affairs Okello Oryem, have confirmed the attack, stating that while the embassy staff are safe and in hiding, significant damage was done to the embassy premises. Uganda has long denied allegations of supporting the M23, maintaining its commitment to peace and stability in the region.

The attack on the Ugandan embassy wasn’t isolated; similar actions were reported at the embassies of France, the United States, Rwanda, and Kenya, with protesters accusing these nations of complicity or inaction regarding the conflict in eastern DRC. The French embassy also faced severe vandalism, with parts of its exterior set on fire, while the US embassy reported fires set near its premises.

Congolese authorities have condemned the violence, with Communications Minister Patrick Muyaya calling for peaceful demonstrations and emphasizing the need to protect diplomatic entities under international law. The Congolese police have been deployed in an attempt to restore order, though the situation remains volatile.

This incident underscores the deep-seated frustrations over the conflict in Eastern DRC, where the M23 has captured significant territory, displacing hundreds of thousands and leading to accusations of foreign interference. The violence in Kinshasa reflects a broader regional tension, with implications for diplomatic relations and the ongoing peace process.

The international community, including the United Nations and various foreign governments, have called for a ceasefire and the resumption of peace talks, highlighting the urgent need for dialogue to address the root causes of the conflict. Meanwhile, Uganda is expected to issue a formal statement through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding the attack and the safety of its citizens in the DRC.

As the situation develops, the focus will be on how these diplomatic strains affect the fragile peace efforts in the region and what measures will be taken to protect diplomatic missions and foster reconciliation.

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