M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, claim they have captured Goma in eastern Congo, leading to mass evacuations and power outages. The conflict, rooted in historical violence, has intensified, with casualties and humanitarian crises escalating. UN calls for Rwandan troop withdrawal highlight ongoing tensions. Congolese forces vow to defend the city despite the deteriorating situation.
In Goma, a city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, government defenses have reportedly collapsed as M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, claim control over the area. Throughout the day, artillery fire echoed across Goma, leading to mass evacuations as residents sought refuge in the city center. Power outages left many unable to communicate, heightening the sense of fear among the populace.
As the conflict escalates, Goma’s residents find themselves caught in a perilous situation, with local businesses shutting down and streets mostly abandoned. Vicky Ushindi, a local spice seller, expressed concerns about safety amidst darkness and artillery fire, stating, “In this darkness, the rebels could come without us knowing.”
The eastern region of Congo has been embroiled in conflict for over 30 years, largely rooted in aftermaths of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The M23, a group led by Congolese Tutsi officers, emerged in 2012 and had previously captured Goma before being expelled. In recent years, the rebels have renewed their offensives, now claiming to defend Tutsi minorities while facing allegations of abuses.
Since the start of the year, clashes intensified, with M23 advancing into new territories and issuing an ultimatum for Congolese forces to surrender. The Congolese military, bolstered by international support, faces challenges in repelling the rebels, while regional troops assist the army, which is often described as weak.
Fatalities from the ongoing conflict remain uncertain, although incidents include the deaths of six UN peacekeepers and nine South African soldiers. The United Nations responded by evacuating its civilian staff from Goma as safety risks heightened, leaving vulnerable populations with limited aid.
Allegations of Rwandan involvement in the conflict are supported by UN reports and international observation. Military experts indicate the presence of Rwandan troops operating in North Kivu, and UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has called for their withdrawal. Rwanda maintains that its actions are driven by concerns over security and allegations regarding the Congolese government’s collaboration with hostile militias.
Despite continuing artillery and military maneuvering in Goma, uncertainties about the frontline situation persist, compounded by hospital overcapacity due to war injuries. Congolese military officials emphasize their commitment to defending the city, even as political tensions with Rwanda escalate, yet a formal declaration of war remains absent.
The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is escalating significantly with M23 rebels claiming control of Goma amid severe humanitarian consequences. Local citizens face dire conditions, while allegations of Rwandan support for the militants add complexity to the conflict. This situation reflects a long-standing historical struggle, with immense dangers for civilians and ongoing military engagements as regional and international stakeholders navigate the crisis.
Original Source: www.gpb.org
