Monsignor Donatien Nshole of CENCO was summoned by the DRC government due to warnings about discrimination against Swahili speakers following the M23 rebels’ capture of Bukavu. His discussions with the Interior Minister revealed tensions regarding accusations of violence linked to linguistic identity. Reactions to the summons vary, with concerns about intimidation versus justified government response, as fighting continues in the region.
Monsignor Donatien Nshole, the Secretary General of the Bishops’ Conference of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (CENCO), was summoned by the government following his warnings about discrimination against Swahili speakers after the M23 rebels captured Bukavu. On March 6, he was questioned at the Ministry of the Interior about a statement from CENCO condemning what it termed a “crackdown on Swahili speakers in Kinshasa and other regions”.
During the hearing with Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani, Monsignor Nshole described their discussion as an informative exchange regarding current events. He noted that they shared valuable insights about the critical situation in the country and provided mutual recommendations. Minister Shabani requested specific evidence regarding accusations of discrimination and violence based on language and ethnic origin.
CENCO had issued a statement on February 22, highlighting the danger posed by the stigmatization of Swahili speakers following the takeover of Bukavu and controversial remarks made by President Félix Tshisekedi, who accused former President Joseph Kabila of masterminding the rebellion. This accusation led to threats against Swahili speakers, particularly those affiliated with Kabila’s ethnic group, amid growing hostility on social media and in public discourse.
In its statement, CENCO expressed concern over increasing violence rooted in linguistic identity, especially affecting communities in eastern DRC. It condemned the situation in Kinshasa and urged the government to safeguard social cohesion and protect its citizens.
In response to CENCO’s concerns, Minister Shabani summoned Monsignor Nshole to request detailed information supporting the allegations. After their meeting, Monsignor Nshole indicated that he felt clarity was achieved. The Minister characterized the incidents described by CENCO as “isolated cases,” while asserting that the government had already acted on most matters raised. He emphasized the importance of reporting such incidents to his department before publicizing them to avoid creating unnecessary panic.
This summons has drawn varied reactions within the country. Political sociologist Professor Tony Kanyinda justified the government’s response, stating that an institution like CENCO should be addressed by the Interior Ministry, aligning with the established agreement between the Holy See and the DRC. He noted that if a judicial body had summoned Monsignor Nshole, it might have been perceived as harassment.
Conversely, some citizens interpret the summons as an effort to intimidate Monsignor Nshole, given his involvement in promoting the Social Pact for Peace and Coexistence, which encourages dialogue with the M23 rebels. This initiative has faced skepticism from the government, which has drawn a firm line against negotiations with the rebel group. While a delegation of Christian leaders has sought a meeting with President Tshisekedi to discuss the conflict, ongoing military clashes continue to escalate in North Kivu province, contributing to civilian casualties and mass displacements, according to civil society sources.
In summary, Monsignor Donatien Nshole’s summons reflects broader concerns surrounding discrimination against Swahili speakers amidst ongoing conflict in the DRC. The government has responded to CENCO’s warnings, while varying perceptions of this action highlight tensions surrounding social cohesion and peace initiatives within the region. As violence persists, the interplay between government authority and advocacy from religious leaders remains critical to the country’s social fabric and stability.
Original Source: international.la-croix.com
