The M23 rebels have escalated their insurgency in eastern Congo, capturing Goma amid fears from local residents. The group emerged in 2012 from dissatisfaction within the Congolese military and has historical ties to Tutsi interests in the region, amid accusations of Rwandan involvement in the conflict.
The M23 insurgency in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has intensified, with rebels capturing the strategically important city of Goma. Residents of Goma are fearful and uncertain about the situation’s escalation, despite the M23 urging them to remain calm. The DRC government has reported the presence of the Rwandan army in Goma, which aims to minimize casualties among civilians.
The M23 group derives its name from the March 23, 2009, peace accord that concluded a prior Tutsi-led revolt. Formed in 2012, M23 consists primarily of former soldiers from the National Congress for the Defence of the People, who rebelled against the DRC government due to unsatisfactory conditions and a failure to honor the peace agreement. Historically, the M23 has been involved in the region’s complex ethnic dynamics, particularly in relation to Tutsi interests against Hutu militias.
In summary, the resurgence of the M23 rebels highlights the ongoing instability in eastern Congo, fueled by ethnic tensions and regional geopolitical factors. As the situation unfolds in Goma, the influence of outside forces, particularly Rwanda’s involvement, remains a critical area of concern for ongoing peace in the region.
Original Source: www.theweek.in
