A growing climate of insecurity and alleged targeted violence against Tutsi communities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has come under renewed scrutiny following a special interview broadcast by ABC News Australia. The discussion, hosted by journalist Francis Zara Adams and featuring CEO-Officer Jean De Dieu, an Ambassador of Peace and a student of Criminology and External Security in Australia, provided a detailed perspective on the deteriorating situation in North and South Kivu.
During the interview, CEO-Officer Jean De Dieu described the crisis as one that extends beyond conventional armed conflict, pointing instead to deeper structural issues including ethnic marginalization, political tensions and systemic injustice. “This is not just a war of weapons; it is a crisis rooted in exclusion, identity and political failure,” he said when asked to characterize the nature of the conflict.
He argued that Tutsi communities, alongside Banyamulenge populations, continue to face discrimination and insecurity, which has significantly undermined their safety and livelihoods. Responding to a question on the situation of civilians, he stated, “Entire communities are living in fear, not because they are part of the conflict, but because of who they are.”
At the centre of his intervention, CEO-Officer Jean De Dieu raised serious concerns about ongoing killings targeting Banyamulenge and Tutsis in North Kivu. He alleged that these acts are being carried out with the involvement of the government in Kinshasa as well as elements linked to Burundi, further exacerbating tensions in the region. “The killings of Banyamulenge and Tutsis are not isolated incidents; they are part of a pattern that the world can no longer ignore,” he said.
He warned that the continuation of such violence risks deepening divisions and prolonging instability, while calling on the international community not to remain silent. In response to a question on what should be done, he added, “Silence from the international community only fuels impunity. There must be accountability, and there must be action now.”
His remarks come amid escalating violence in several parts of eastern Congo. In Masisi territory, fighting has intensified in recent days, with reports indicating the use of drones alongside ground offensives in and around civilian-populated areas. According to field accounts, the clashes have forced large numbers of residents to flee, often without access to safe shelter or adequate humanitarian support. Local sources describe a rapidly deteriorating situation, where displacement continues to increase and civilians remain exposed to ongoing threats.
The humanitarian consequences are becoming increasingly severe. Displaced populations are facing shortages of food, healthcare and basic necessities, while access for humanitarian actors remains limited due to insecurity. Observers warn that without immediate and coordinated intervention, the crisis could worsen further, potentially destabilizing the broader region.
Throughout the interview, CEO-Officer Jean De Dieu reiterated the need for stronger international engagement, emphasizing that sustainable peace in eastern Congo would require accountability, justice and inclusive governance that guarantees equal protection for all communities.
The interview, as highlighted by Afrovera.com, reflects growing concern among observers and advocates that the situation in eastern Congo is not receiving sufficient international attention. As violence persists and humanitarian needs continue to rise, the urgency for meaningful and coordinated action remains critical.
This interview is very insightful. CEO-Officer Jean De Dieu clearly explained that the crisis goes beyond armed conflict and touches on deeper structural injustices. His analysis is powerful and necessary. 🙏
A very well-written article. Jean De Dieu’s explanation of ethnic marginalization and political failure in eastern Congo really stood out to me. The international community needs to pay attention to voices like his. 🌍