The recent shelling of the Mugunga camps for internally displaced people (IDPs) in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo is a horrific stain on the nation's conscience. The international community, however, cannot simply wring its hands and offer platitudes. This attack, confirmed by the UN as perpetrated by the DR Congo-led coalition, is a stark reminder of the ongoing tragedy in the east of the country, a tragedy fueled in part by the world's persistent indifference. ALSO READ Rwanda dismisses reports on camp bombing in DR Congo For years, the Congolese military and its allied forces have committed atrocities against their own people, often with impunity. The international community, or rather the so-called super-powers have too often turned a blind eye to these abuses. This fosters a climate of violence and instability, further hindering any chance of lasting peace. Enough is enough. World leaders must stop accepting President Tshisekedi's government at its word. The time for diplomacy as usual is over. Kinshasa needs to be held accountable for its actions. World leaders must look President Tshisekedi and his acolytes in the eye and condemn their barbaric treatment of innocent civilians. ALSO READ: DRC army fires more rockets on Rwandan territory Sustainable peace in the DR Congo will not come from buying into Kinshasa's self-serving narratives. It will come only when the government embraces the regional-led peace process and stops deflecting blame for its internal problems onto neighbouring countries. The world community must make it clear that continued violence will not be tolerated, and that economic partnerships are contingent on genuine reform and a commitment to peace. Regional leaders have already laid that ground, through the Luanda and Nairobi processes. ALSO READ: DR Congo soldier fires at RDF, killed The people of the DRC deserve better. They deserve to live free from fear, free from the constant threat of violence. The international community has a moral obligation to stand with them and demand accountability. Until the world stops turning a blind eye to the suffering of the Congolese people, there can be no hope for a brighter future for the nation.
