The Ituri Youth Parliament issued an urgent warning this Monday, April 6, 2026, in Bunia, denouncing the abduction and recruitment of over 100 children by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels in Mambasa territory.
A Tragic Fate for Minors
According to the civil society organization, forced recruitments have intensified in recent weeks during rebel incursions. Torn away from their families and schools, these minors face a dual ordeal:
- Forced military training in weapons handling.
- Use as human shields during clashes, placing them directly in the line of fire.
Denouncing Crimes Against Humanity
Gloire Abasi, President of the Ituri Youth Parliament, described these acts as crimes against humanity. He emphasized that a child’s place is in school, not on the battlefield, stating that this “macabre venture” is jeopardizing the future of an entire generation in the region.
Calls for Action
Given the gravity of the situation, the Youth Parliament is calling upon two major entities:
- The Congolese Government: To increase military efforts to secure civilian areas and end ADF activism.
- The International Criminal Court (ICC): To initiate prosecutions against ADF leaders for the recruitment and use of child soldiers.
As of now, there has been no official response from the authorities regarding these allegations.
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