This archive report was first published on 30 June 2019.
June 30, 2019
President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has ordered a large-scale operation against armed groups in the restive east, following the killings of scores of civilians.
Speaking in the capital Kinshasa, President Tshisekedi announced that the army would launch operations in the territories of Djugu and Mahagi in the volatile Ituri province, as well as in South Kivu province.
The operation aims to put an end to the dozens of militias roaming the lawless, mineral-rich region, where millions of lives were lost in a 1998-2003 war.
At least 160 civilians have died in Ituri since June 10, according to local authorities, who blame the Ngudjolo militia for the violence.
The army has announced that it has taken control of the group's stronghold in an offensive backed by the UN peacekeeping mission MONUSCO.
President Tshisekedi also hailed the 'easing of political tensions' since he took power in January, saying that political exiles had returned and that rallies were being held 'without hindrance'.
However, he attacked opposition leaders for trying to organise a banned march in Kinshasa on Sunday and accused them of 'confusing democracy with anarchy'.
