In a statement released on Monday, Human Rights Watch (HRW) urged the DRC government to take immediate action to address the issue of hate crimes following the lynching of an ethnic Tutsi soldier in the eastern city of Goma.
The victim, Lieutenant Patrick Gisore Kabongo, was reportedly targeted by a mob who accused him of being a member of the M23 rebel group.
According to HRW, the soldier was identified as a Tutsi due to his physical traits, and the mob’s actions were motivated by ethnic hatred.
The group’s statement highlighted the growing tensions between Tutsis and Congolese forces, particularly in the country’s eastern region, where the M23 has been active.
HRW further noted that the DRC government has arbitrarily arrested dozens of Tutsis over the past year, accusing them of collaborating with the M23.
The rights group expressed concern that these arrests could further fuel ethnic tensions and called for the authorities to release those who are being held without proper charge.
The killing of Lieutenant Kabongo has sparked outrage among human rights groups and activists, who are calling for a thorough investigation into the incident and for the perpetrators to be brought to justice.
HRW has urged the DRC government to take concrete steps to address the root causes of ethnic tensions in the country, including addressing discrimination and promoting tolerance and understanding among different ethnic groups.
