The Global Imams Council (GIC) has strongly condemned the recent terrorist attack targeting a church in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The council has described the attack as a heinous criminal act and a blatant violation of divine laws and international conventions.
The council, in a statement on Monday, emphasised that attacks on places of worship undermine the dignity and sanctity of human life.
“This criminal act constitutes a blatant violation of all divine laws and international conventions which prohibit assaults on places of worship and uphold the sanctity and dignity of human life,” the statement reads.
Quoting the Qur’an, the GIC reiterated Islam’s rejection of violence and unjustified killings, which says that 'whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land it is as if he had slain mankind entirely.'
The council has expressed its condolences to the families of the victims and the wider Christian community in the DRC, urging authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and bring those responsible to justice.
“We urge the international community and human rights organizations to take a firm stance against such crimes, which threaten civil peace and social cohesion,” GIC added.
GIC also called on Muslims worldwide to uphold a public discourse rooted in peace, compassion, and the rejection of hatred and extremism.
According to the BBC, more than 40 people were killed in the attack, including 19 women, 15 men, and nine children.
Most victims were worshippers participating in a night vigil at a church in Komanda town, when suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) fighters launched the brutal assault.
Nearby shops and homes were looted and set ablaze in the same raid.
The ADF, originally based in Uganda but now active in eastern Congo, has claimed allegiance to the Islamic State’s Central African Province and is responsible for repeated attacks on civilians of all religions.
MONUSCO’s deputy chief, Vivian van de Perre, condemned the killings, calling them a clear violation of international humanitarian law.
“These targeted attacks against defenceless civilians, particularly in places of worship, are not only appalling but also in violation of all human rights standards,” she said.
The Congolese military reported that the victims were attacked with machetes, and described the incident as an attempt by the ADF to divert attention from a joint Ugandan-Congolese military operation targeting the group.
Military spokesperson Lt. Jules Ngongo called on citizens to remain alert and report any suspicious activity.
