The M23 rebels have declared a unilateral ceasefire in the DRC for humanitarian reasons after significant fighting in Goma. Despite controlling Goma, the rebels assert they will not advance on Bukavu. The DRC government is open to talks, while regional leaders and the G7 urge negotiations and humanitarian aid access to the affected civilians.
On Monday, the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group, which currently controls the city of Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), declared a unilateral ceasefire for humanitarian reasons, set to commence on Tuesday. This announcement follows international calls for safe corridors to facilitate aid to the region, which is experiencing significant displacement due to ongoing violence.
The ceasefire was declared shortly after the UN health agency reported that at least 900 individuals lost their lives in the recent clashes in Goma between M23 rebels and Congolese forces. Goma, a city with a population of 2 million, is situated in a region rich in mineral resources and remains under rebel control, although the M23 continues to expand its influence in eastern DRC, including advancements towards Bukavu.
Despite earlier ambitions to capture the provincial capital of Bukavu, M23 spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka stated, “It must be made clear that we have no intention of capturing Bukavu or other areas. However, we reiterate our commitment to protecting and defending the civilian population and our positions.” The DRC government has not yet responded to this declaration.
The ceasefire announcement comes just before a significant summit featuring leaders from southern and eastern Africa, including DRC and Rwandan presidents, indicating regional efforts for peace. Additionally, foreign ministers from the G7 nations have urged parties involved in the conflict to resume negotiations and facilitate humanitarian relief efforts, emphasizing the need for safe passage for help to civilians in distress.
The DRC authorities have indicated their willingness to engage in dialogue, contingent upon adherence to previous peace agreements, as Rwanda and the M23 rebels accuse the DRC government of failing to honor such agreements. The M23 group is believed to receive support from approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, positioning them as a formidable force amidst the numerous armed groups vying for control in eastern DRC.
The ongoing conflict, fueled by long-standing ethnic tensions, has led to a humanitarian crisis, displacing hundreds of thousands who have fled violence repeatedly. The M23 claims to protect ethnic Tutsis in the DRC, amidst allegations that Hutus connected to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide are targeting them. Those fleeing the conflict have largely sought refuge in neighboring Rwanda.
The M23 rebel group is entrenched in an ongoing conflict that draws on historical ethnic divisions and struggles for control over rich mineral resources in eastern DRC. This region has seen repeated cycles of violence, often linked to the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide, which saw a mass migration of Hutus into the DRC. The presence and support of Rwandan forces to the M23 have further complicated efforts for stabilization and peace in a region beset by multiple armed factions.
The unilateral ceasefire declaration by M23 marks a significant moment amidst intense conflict in eastern DRC, as humanitarian concerns rise with increasing displacement of civilians. Regional and international actors are now calling for a resolution through dialogue and humanitarian access. The multifaceted nature of the conflict, intertwined with historical grievances, continues to pose substantial challenges for peace and stability in the area.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
