Residents of Goma, eastern Congo, woke to fear after M23 rebels claimed control amid intensifying conflict with government forces. Gunfire was reported, and armed men were observed marching in the city. The U.N. condemned the situation as increasing hostilities threaten regional stability and escalate a humanitarian crisis affecting millions.
Residents of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, faced fear and uncertainty this Monday morning after Rwanda-backed rebels announced they had taken control of the city amid escalating conflict with Congolese forces. Gunfire echoed throughout the city overnight, with early reports of armed men in military attire marching in, although it remained unconfirmed if they were indeed part of the M23 rebel group. The Congolese government has yet to validate claims regarding the takeover.
The M23 rebel group, supported by Rwanda, is one of numerous armed factions vying for control in the mineral-rich region, which has been marred by conflict for decades. Following a temporary occupation of Goma in 2012, the M23 resurfaced in late 2021, allegedly with renewed backing from Rwanda, a claim that Rwanda denies. Analysts express concern that increasing hostilities could further destabilize a region already experiencing a dire humanitarian crisis, displacing over six million people.
In a stern statement, the U.N. Security Council urged the M23 to halt its advances and respect the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). They condemned the ongoing violations against DRC’s territorial integrity and requested an end to the establishment of parallel administrations by the M23. The rebels claimed control just as a deadline for Congolese forces to surrender their weapons loomed.
With the Congolese government declaring a state of war and severing diplomatic relations with Rwanda, hopes for dialogue have diminished following failed talks. The recent advances in Goma mark the culmination of battles resulting in the capture of several towns by the rebels amid widespread fear in the local population, with many residents fleeing towards Rwanda.
Safi Shangwe, a local resident, expressed concern stating, “We are fleeing because we saw soldiers on the border with Rwanda throwing bombs and shooting.” Meanwhile, the U.N.’s special representative for Congo, Bintou Keita, reported a dire situation with blocked roads and a shut-down airport, highlighting the pressing humanitarian needs. Reports indicate that at least 13 U.N. peacekeepers were killed recently, highlighting the grave security environment.
In a statement, the Uruguayan army, serving within the U.N. peacekeeping mission in Goma, mentioned that over 100 Congolese soldiers had surrendered their weapons in light of the escalating tensions, underscoring the urgency of the situation in the area.
The conflict in eastern Congo, tied to various armed groups vying for regional control, particularly over mineral resources, has persisted for decades. The M23 rebel group’s resurgence and the alleged support from Rwanda complicate the fragile security situation. Past incidents, including the 2012 occupation of Goma, reveal ongoing instability, exacerbated by humanitarian crises affecting millions of displaced individuals within the region.
In summary, the situation in Goma reflects the ongoing conflict fueled by the M23 rebels and the complexities of regional allegiances. With heightened fears among residents, the deteriorating humanitarian conditions, and increased military confrontations, the prospect for peace remains grim. The international community continues to monitor the situation, emphasizing the need for respect for the DRC’s sovereignty amid escalating tensions.
Original Source: www.clickondetroit.com
