UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the M23 rebel offensive in the DRC, citing a severe impact on civilians and heightened risks of regional conflict. He urged an immediate ceasefire and adherence to agreements, while emphasizing the necessity for humanitarian access and protection of civilians amidst ongoing violence. The situation is further complicated by the presence of Rwandan troops and combatants linked to the conflict.
On Thursday, Secretary-General António Guterres expressed grave concern regarding the recent offensive by M23 rebels in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which has resulted in a devastating impact on civilians. The rebels, reportedly supported by Rwanda, have taken control of Sake in South Kivu, intensifying threats towards the regional capital, Goma. Guterres cautioned this escalation raises the risk of a broader regional conflict, despite Rwanda’s denial of involvement with the M23 forces.
In the wake of the UN Mission’s withdrawal from South Kivu in June 2024, the peacekeepers retained their efforts in North Kivu, maintaining key positions amid ongoing clashes with M23 and other armed groups. Recent violence near Bweremana has resulted in significant civilian casualties and mass displacement, affecting over 250,000 individuals, as reported by the UN peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO. In light of these developments, Guterres urged an immediate cessation of hostilities by the M23 and reaffirmed the need to adhere to a ceasefire agreement established at the end of July 2024.
Guterres expressed dismay at recent findings from the UN Security Council’s Group of Experts, which indicated the presence of Rwandan troops in the DRC and their continued backing of the M23. He called for all parties engaged in the conflict to respect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the DRC, advocating for a halt to all forms of external support for armed groups, be they Congolese or foreign. Additionally, Guterres reaffirmed his commitment to the Luanda peace process led by Angola’s President João Lourenço aimed at reducing tensions between the DRC and Rwanda.
In reinforcing the importance of the Luanda talks, Guterres urged all involved parties to remain committed to neutralizing armed factions and ensure restoring peace. The UN Secretary-General insisted on the necessity for immediate access to humanitarian aid for affected populations, stressing the critical role of upholding human rights and international humanitarian law throughout the conflict. He condemned any acts that jeopardize the safety of UN personnel and civilians, emphasizing MONUSCO’s commitment to civilian protection.
The ongoing conflict in the DRC involves multiple armed groups, notably the M23 rebels, who have gained notoriety due to their armed confrontations with government forces and other militias. The situation has been exacerbated by external influences, particularly from neighboring Rwanda, which has been accused of supporting the M23. Since the withdrawal of UN peacekeepers from certain regions, violence has surged, resulting in significant civilian suffering and mass displacement. The Luanda peace process represents a diplomatic attempt to ease tensions and address the underlying issues fueling the conflict.
In conclusion, Secretary-General António Guterres has raised significant concerns regarding the escalation of conflict due to M23 rebels in the DRC, emphasizing the dire humanitarian situation. He has urged immediate cessation of violence and supported the ongoing peace initiatives led by Angola, highlighting the importance of protecting civilians and ensuring humanitarian access. The involvement of foreign troops further complicates the situation, necessitating a collective commitment to peace and stability in the region.
Original Source: news.un.org
