The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has ordered a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of humanitarian worker Karine Buisset, as tensions continue to escalate in the eastern city of Goma.
According to a statement shared by Congolese official Patrick Muyaya, the country’s Minister of Justice has instructed the Auditor General of the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) to open an inquiry aimed at establishing the exact circumstances that led to Buisset’s death.
The announcement comes as the conflict in eastern Congo continues to fuel political accusations between Kinshasa and armed actors operating in the region.
Kinshasa accuses Rwanda and M23
In his message, Muyaya strongly criticized Rwanda and the M23 movement, accusing them of showing little regard for civilian populations and humanitarian workers since the beginning of the conflict.
He argued that if the two actors had respect for humanitarian principles, they would not have targeted United Nations peacekeepers or attacked infrastructure linked to the UN peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO.
The Congolese government also claimed that the presence of these forces has created significant obstacles to humanitarian assistance efforts reaching the population in Goma and surrounding areas.
Concerns over humanitarian access
Authorities in Kinshasa say the ongoing insecurity has complicated the delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians who have already been severely affected by the fighting.
Eastern Congo has witnessed repeated waves of violence involving government forces, armed groups, and regional tensions, resulting in large-scale displacement and growing humanitarian needs.
Officials insist that ensuring accountability in the death of Karine Buisset is necessary not only for justice but also for protecting humanitarian personnel working in conflict zones.
Warning over proposed march in Goma
The Congolese government also reacted to reports of a planned march in Goma. Officials warned that, based on testimonies from local residents, those described as “occupying forces” would not be welcomed by the population.
Authorities further stated that threats or intimidation would not change public opinion about those they accuse of fueling the conflict.
Commitment to peace processes
Despite the accusations and rising tensions, Kinshasa reiterated that the country remains committed to ongoing peace initiatives aimed at stabilizing the eastern region.
Government officials emphasized their intention to continue supporting diplomatic efforts and implementing provisions linked to the Washington peace framework.
The investigation into Karine Buisset’s death is expected to shed more light on the incident as the region remains under intense political and military pressure.
