President Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC has pledged a military response against M23 fighters backed by Rwanda, who have recently captured significant territory, including Goma. The escalating conflict has prompted emergency regional summits and criticism of the international community’s inaction. Tshisekedi decried the precarious security situation and its implications for the broader region as leaders call for urgent negotiations.
The President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Felix Tshisekedi, has declared a strong military response against the Rwandan-backed M23 fighters who have escalated their offensive in the eastern region. The M23’s recent capture of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, marks a significant advancement in their prolonged conflict, which has seen numerous groups gain territory in this resource-rich area.
The M23, also known as the March 23 Movement, has contributed to the ongoing instability that has plagued eastern DRC for decades due to inter-group rivalries and external influences. In light of recent developments, regional leaders have convened emergency meetings to address the crisis, while the United Nations and other international powers have urged for a ceasefire and negotiations.
In a recent address, President Tshisekedi criticized the global community for its failure to respond adequately to the deteriorating security situation, describing it as an “affront” given the severity of the conflict. He warned that this could provoke further violence not only within the DRC but also throughout the Great Lakes region.
Tshisekedi notably abstained from participating in crisis discussions with Rwandan President Paul Kagame, as regional bodies called for a peaceful resolution and engagement with various stakeholders, including the M23 rebels. Furthermore, President Kagame indicated that Rwanda was unable to fulfill a mediator role amidst the growing tensions.
The situation has claimed the lives of thirteen South African soldiers serving with the UN peacekeeping forces in the DRC, who were part of a broader regional effort. Kagame clarified that the Southern African Development Community’s role is not to provide peacekeeping support in this ongoing conflict. The upcoming summit in Zimbabwe will further discuss the crisis among involved nations, while Angola pushes for a meeting between the DRC and Rwandan leadership to broker peace.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been embroiled in conflict for over thirty years due to various armed groups vying for control over the eastern territories, particularly those rich in natural resources. The M23 movement, which emerged in 2012, has been particularly notable for its association with Rwandan support and its persistent efforts to capture territory. The current crisis showcases the regional implications of this conflict, prompting international attention and intervention attempts.
In summary, the DRC’s President Tshisekedi has committed to a vigorous military response against advancing M23 rebels as the international community faces criticism for its inaction. The ongoing violence raises significant concerns for the stability of the Great Lakes region, necessitating urgent dialogue among regional powers to prevent further escalation. The situation remains dire, with ongoing discussions and summits planned to seek peaceful resolutions.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
