Chaotic protests erupted in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), as demonstrators expressed anger over the international community's perceived inaction regarding the conflict in Goma, the eastern regional capital. Protesters, responding to a "Paralyse the City" call, targeted embassies of Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, France, Belgium, the US, and the UN, accusing Rwanda and Uganda of supporting the M23 rebel group, which recently seized Goma. Western nations were criticized for diplomatic inaction.
The Protesters burned tyres, vandalized embassy walls, and looted the Ugandan embassy, taking furniture on motorcycles and taxis. This is in addition to setting on fire the French embassy's perimeter wall, with graffiti accusing France of betrayal.
Rwandan and Ugandan missions were primary targets, with demonstrators accusing Rwanda of backing M23 rebels.
Police used tear gas to disperse crowds, but security was insufficient to prevent attacks on some embassies.
Ugandan officials confirmed looting at their embassy, while Belgian and French officials reported fires at their compounds.
Congo's Communications Minister urged peaceful protests and condemned attacks on diplomatic missions.
BACKGROUND TO THE UPRISING
The DRC accuses Rwanda of supporting M23 rebels, a claim Rwanda denies, blaming Congo for failing to address militia threats in the east.
The protests reflect growing frustration over the conflict and perceived international complicity.
The situation was later brought under control, with calls for peaceful demonstrations.
