The DRC has accused Rwanda of military incursions in North Kivu as M23 rebels claim control over Goma. Clashes have been reported between Congolese and Rwandan forces. The UN Security Council condemned the rebellion and urged withdrawal of external forces. A summit for peace talks is being organized by Kenya, emphasizing the need for direct dialogue to resolve the escalating tensions.
The government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has accused Rwanda of military intrusion into North Kivu province, coinciding with claims by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels that they have taken control of Goma, the provincial capital. Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya emphasized the presence of Rwandan troops in the city and urged residents to remain indoors to prevent chaos and vandalism.
Reports indicate clashes between Congolese forces and Rwandan military personnel across the border. A spokesperson for the Rwandan army shared that at least five civilians have died and 25 others have been injured near Gisenyi. On the same day, the border between Rwanda and Congo was reported to be closed.
As the M23 rebels advanced towards Goma, a significant jailbreak occurred at Munzenze prison due to a fire. In reaction to the unrest, the UN Security Council condemned the M23’s actions and demanded external forces withdraw to re-establish Congo’s sovereignty.
Kenyan President William Ruto announced that both Rwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC President Felix Tshisekedi have agreed to attend a crisis summit. Ruto advocated for direct discussions with the M23 rebels, noting that a military resolution appears unfeasible. Previous negotiations facilitated by Angola concluded unsuccessfully following Rwanda’s insistence on direct talks between Kinshasa and M23.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo has a rich but contentious history, with Rwanda accused of supporting the M23 rebel group. Although Rwanda denies backing the militia, it has confirmed the presence of its troops in eastern Congo, an area abundant in minerals and resources. This conflict has resulted in over 7 million individuals being internally displaced.
The conflict in eastern Congo is rooted in longstanding tensions, fueled by the region’s wealth in natural resources. The M23 rebel group, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis, has posed serious challenges to the Congolese government. Accusations against Rwanda for supporting M23, combined with the involvement of multiple armed factions, have complicated peace efforts and exacerbated humanitarian crises, leading to millions of displaced individuals throughout the region.
In summary, the situation in Goma highlights significant geopolitical tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, with accusations of military intervention and rebel activities leading to increased violence and instability. The upcoming crisis summit among East African leaders underscores the urgency for dialogue and a peaceful resolution, while the dire humanitarian implications of the conflict require international attention and support.
Original Source: www.dw.com
