M23’s declaration of a humanitarian ceasefire in eastern DRC was quickly dismissed by government officials as a ‘ploy’ after renewed offensives began. Clashes erupted between M23 and Congolese forces, leading to calls for international action amidst escalating violence. The situation reflects ongoing instability in the region despite multiple failed ceasefires.
The M23 rebel group declared a unilateral humanitarian ceasefire, set to take effect last Tuesday, after intensifying attacks on the eastern city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). However, Congolese government spokesman Patrick Muyaya criticized the ceasefire as a “ploy,” citing a renewed offensive initiated by M23 and Rwandan forces early Wednesday morning. Security reports indicate that fierce clashes erupted between M23, backed by Rwandan troops, and Congolese armed forces, continuing a cycle of violence despite numerous previous ceasefires that were ultimately violated.
The DRC’s Foreign Minister, Therese Kayikwamba Wagner, expressed frustration regarding the international community’s tepid response to the situation, stating, “We see a lot of declarations but we don’t see actions.” As hostilities escalated, the Kenyan presidency disclosed plans for an extraordinary summit involving DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, aimed at addressing the ongoing crisis. The International Criminal Court has been monitoring the situation closely, particularly the recent surge in violence around the provincial capital of North Kivu, Goma.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC has seen M23 rebel forces engage in multiple ceasefires over the last three years, which have frequently been disregarded. The region has been heavily affected by insecurity and humanitarian crises, exacerbated by external influences, notably from Rwandan military support of the M23 group. Recent confrontations have prompted urgent calls for international intervention, although local leadership remains skeptical of the efficacy of global diplomatic efforts.
In conclusion, the unilateral ceasefire declared by the M23 is perceived by the Congolese government as a strategic maneuver rather than a genuine effort to halt hostilities. The renewed conflict illustrates the persistent volatility of the region, despite diplomatic efforts and historical attempts at ceasefires. The urgent need for decisive international action persists as violence continues to escalate in eastern DRC, with significant humanitarian implications.
Original Source: www.france24.com
