“In the same vein,” the Church leaders said, “we are witnessing the emergence and expansion of the Mobondo militia in the western part of our country, which is spreading terror right up to the gates of the capital, Kinshasa.”
Between May 11 and May 13, members of the Mobondo militia reportedly attacked villages in Kiwango province, approximately 75 kilometers (about 47 miles) from Kinshasa, killing at least 11 people.
The bishops also expressed concern about the Special Brigade of the Union for Democracy and Social Progress (UDPS), a wing of the ruling party, “which sometimes collaborates with the police to hunt down political opponents and other peaceful citizens with a critical view of the country’s current governance.”
The bishops said it is unfortunate that their recommendations on security and national cohesion are not adhered to.
They cited their November 2022 statement in which they called for concerted efforts to address security challenges in the country, which is home to Africa’s largest Catholic population, saying: “The hour is critical. Our country is in danger.”
In their June 22 statement, CENCO members acknowledged with appreciation the diplomatic, political, and military initiatives taken by the Congolese government to restore peace in the Central African nation.