In the Democratic Republic of Congo, prelates whose positions diverge from the directives of the ruling power seem to be subjected to repressive measures by security services. In Lubumbashi, Monsignor Fulgence Muteba has been targeted by acts of intimidation; in Kinshasa, threats have been made regarding the obstruction of Sunday Eucharistic celebrations.
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Yesterday, in Uvira, a new and extremely serious incident added to this series of abuses: Monsignor Sébastien Joseph Muyengo Mulombe, Bishop of the Diocese of Uvira, was the victim of an unspeakably violent attack at his residence in Kimanga by individuals in military uniform, presumed to belong to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC).
These men, displaying outrageous brutality, issued grave threats against the prelate and his close associates before robbing them of their personal belongings and holding them under duress in intolerable conditions.
This heinous act is part of an alarming deterioration of security in Uvira, where bloody clashes are increasing, subjecting the population to a surge of unbearable violence and abuses. In response to this situation, which defies all conscience, local authorities, while calling for calm, are urgently demanding an immediate and effective reinforcement of security measures to restore order, ensure the protection of citizens, and safeguard the integrity of those who, like ecclesiastical dignitaries, tirelessly work for peace and justice.
