Rwandan-backed M23 rebels reportedly seized the city of Goma in the DRC, leading to clashes with government forces and mass refugee outflow. While the DRC government denies the capture, evidence suggests otherwise. The U.N. Special Representative warned that the escalating violence may threaten regional stability, with over 178,000 individuals displaced.
The M23 rebels, predominantly ethnic Tutsi and supported by Rwanda, have reportedly seized control of the strategic eastern city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), provoking fierce confrontations with government forces. The conflict has instigated a significant outflow of refugees from nearby communities. Despite the DRC government’s denial of the city’s capture, visuals circulated on social media indicate rebel forces asserting dominance in Goma’s streets.
U.N. Special Representative to the DRC, Bintou Keita, highlighted the dire situation during a U.N. Security Council emergency meeting, noting that blocked roads and a shutdown airport hampered her and her mission’s ability to escape the violence. This escalation coincides with mounting tensions between the DRC and neighboring Rwanda amid a severe humanitarian crisis in the region.
DRC government spokesman, Patrick Muyaya, urged citizens to remain calm and avoid looting or sharing information deemed disinformation from Rwanda. He emphasized the government’s commitment to shielding citizens from violence, stating, “In view of the security situation in the city of Goma marked by the presence of the Rwandan army, we wish to reassure the population that following the instructions of the president of the republic, the government continues to work to avoid carnage and loss of human life.”
Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner condemned Rwanda for supporting the M23 rebels, claiming their actions constitute a declaration of war and violate U.N. Security Council resolutions which authorize a peacekeeping force of 18,000 troops in the DRC. Conversely, Rwanda has accused the DRC of backing dissident groups attempting to challenge the ruling party in Rwanda.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern over the M23’s advances during a recent statement, warning that they increase the risk of regional conflict. He urged the M23 to cease its offensive operations and return to compliance with a previously established ceasefire agreement. Recent reports from the U.N. indicate that over 178,000 individuals have fled their homes due to escalating violence, predominantly affecting the eastern provinces of South Kivu and North Kivu, which border Rwanda and Burundi.
The recent conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has its roots in longstanding ethnic and political tensions, particularly involving the Tutsi minority and their relations with neighboring Rwanda. The M23 rebel group, formed by individuals of Tutsi descent, has been accused of receiving support from the Rwandan government, leading to significant military confrontations with Congolese forces. The instability in DRC exacerbates one of the worst humanitarian crises globally, prompting mass displacement and international concern. Historically, the region has witnessed cycles of violence fueled by ethnic conflict and political instability, often drawing in neighboring countries and international bodies. The international community, particularly through the U.N., has been involved in peacekeeping efforts, yet the situation remains precarious amid accusations and counter-accusations between the DRC and Rwanda, which further complicate the path toward peace and stability.
The capture of Goma by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, resulting in heightened fears of a regional war and humanitarian crisis. Despite government assurances of safety and the importance of national unity, the realities on the ground, including mass displacement and calls for international intervention, underscore the complexity of the situation. Efforts to mediate the conflict and ensure compliance with peace agreements remain critical to restoring stability in the region.
Original Source: www.upi.com
