Militias and Army Threaten Civilians in South Kivu

Human Rights Watch warned that civilians in Uvira, South Kivu, face escalating threats from both Congolese army forces and their allied Wazalendo militias. The watchdog documented killings, abductions, harassment, and ethnic discrimination targeting the Banyamulenge community, amid a worsening crisis fueled by mutual distrust between the army and militias. The violence, which has included deadly crackdowns on protests and restrictions on cross-border movement, underscores the urgent need for accountability and stronger civilian protection measures.

Rising Tensions in Uvira

In early September, Wazalendo militias staged an eight-day strike and set up roadblocks in protest against the appointment of Gen. Olivier Gasita, accusing him of colluding with the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. On September 5, militia fire killed an eight-year-old boy, while on September 8 Congolese forces shot into crowds of unarmed demonstrators, killing another child and wounding at least nine civilians.

Ethnic Violence and Abuses

Wazalendo fighters have increasingly targeted members of the Banyamulenge, Congolese Tutsis, accusing them of supporting the M23. HRW documented harassment, denial of access to basic services, and violent incidents, including attempts to attack Banyamulenge leaders in their homes. These abuses build on decades of discrimination and recurrent persecution of the community.

Regional and Humanitarian Fallout

The crisis has spilled over into Burundi, where police and ruling party youths detained hundreds of Congolese refugees, forcing some back across the border. More than 70,000 people have fled into Burundi since January, fleeing offensives by M23 and clashes in South Kivu. HRW emphasized that governments must guarantee safe passage and humanitarian protection.

Accountability Demands

Despite repeated warnings, the Congolese army continues to provide weapons and financial support to Wazalendo militias. HRW stressed that officials who supply abusive groups may be complicit in crimes and urged Kinshasa to prosecute commanders who fail to stop violations. “Civilians in eastern Congo are caught between multiple armed forces and groups, often with little clarity on who is responsible for their safety,” said Clémentine de Montjoye, senior Africa researcher at Human Rights Watch.