Government invokes military rule in hot spots

The DRC will replace civilian authorities with military administrations in two conflict-hit provinces for a month, the government has confirmed. A report on the News24 site notes that a surge in attacks by armed militias and intercommunal violence along Congo's border with Uganda have left hundreds dead since the start of the year. Under the state of siege, governors and provincial assemblies in North Kivu and Ituri Provinces will be suspended for 30 days. In their place, the government will install military governors and police vice-governors with wide-ranging powers. Dino Mahtani, of the International Crisis Group, said militarising the rule of law would not get rid of armed groups. ‘What's really needed is a demobilisation plan and political deals to discourage support to armed groups,’ Mahtani said.