The City of Paris has requested the Prefect of Police to ban the upcoming “Solidarité Congo” concert, scheduled for April 7 at the Accor Arena, citing concerns over the event’s timing and its potential to inflame tensions among communities.
The decision follows a formal alert on March 7 from key representatives of the Rwandan community in France, including Rwanda’s Ambassador to France, François Nkulikiyimfura, Marcel Kabanda, President of Ibuka France, Christophe Renzaho, President of the Rwandan Community in France, and Tubeho Family, an association of survivors of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
While acknowledging the humanitarian purpose of the concert—raising support for children affected by the conflict in eastern Congo—the Paris Mayor’s Office emphasized that holding it on April 7 is highly sensitive.
The date marks the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, a solemn occasion globally recognized by the United Nations.
The Mayor’s Office warned that the concert could fuel existing tensions between Congolese and Rwandan communities in Paris, which have been exacerbated by ongoing geopolitical conflicts in the Great Lakes region. Some nationalist movements and extremist groups have allegedly sought to exploit the event for political agendas.
The city has also cited threats and incitements of violence circulating on social media, which could pose a risk to public safety.
In light of this, Paris authorities have urged the concert organizers to reconsider the date or relocate the event to avoid potential unrest.
Laurent Nuñez, the Prefect of Police of Paris, is now reviewing the request for a formal ban. Meanwhile, the city reassured its commitment to protecting public order while respecting the right to commemorate historical tragedies.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions, with supporters applauding the move to prevent conflict, while critics argue that it infringes on freedom of expression and humanitarian efforts.
As tensions rise, all eyes are now on French authorities for the final verdict on whether the concert will proceed as planned.
