Congo’s government rejected a ceasefire declaration from the M23 rebels, citing continued heavy fighting in the region. The M23 claims to have unilaterally declared a ceasefire for humanitarian reasons. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with some reports estimating the death toll in the thousands. Regional discussions are scheduled to address the ongoing crisis.
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has labeled the unilateral ceasefire declared by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels as “false communication.” This statement comes as reports of intense fighting between the rebels and government forces continue to emerge from the region. The M23 announced their ceasefire on humanitarian grounds, citing the urgent need for safe passage for aid to the hundreds of thousands displaced by the conflict. However, Congolese government spokesman Patrick Muyaya emphasized that their primary expectation is the withdrawal of M23 forces.
Recently, the M23 rebels have taken control of Goma, a strategic city with a population of two million and rich in mineral resources. During the previous week, reports indicated that M23 had gained further territory in eastern Congo and was advancing towards the provincial capital of Bukavu. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric confirmed ongoing heavy fighting in South Kivu but noted there were no reports of M23 approaching Bukavu directly.
U.N. experts estimate that approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops are backing the M23 rebels, a significant increase from the number present during the group’s brief capture of Goma in 2012. Congo’s government remains open to discussions aimed at resolving the conflict, but insists that such talks must adhere to prior peace agreements. Rwanda, alongside the M23, has accused Congo of not upholding these agreements.
In light of the escalating violence, regional leaders are convening in Tanzania this weekend to deliberate on the situation. Congolese Interior Minister Jacquemain Shabani reported that the death toll from last week’s clashes has reached 2,000, alleging that some bodies were disposed of in mass graves. The United Nations health agency previously reported that at least 900 individuals have died in the fighting.
Residents of Goma are mourning their losses, with many expressing a desperate longing for peace. Elisha Dunia, a grieving father, described the heartbreaking conditions of burial for the victims, pleading for the return of peace. Another resident, Debors Zuzu, who lost three family members, echoed the urgent need for conflict resolution, stating that the leaders would have no one to govern if war continues unabated.
Additionally, U.N. humanitarian coordinator for Congo, Bruno Lemarquis, has urged for the reopening of Goma’s airport, describing it as essential for evacuating the wounded and delivering aid effectively. The ongoing violence continues to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The situation in eastern Congo remains dire, with ongoing violence despite the M23 rebels’ declared ceasefire. The Congolese government has rejected this ceasefire as insincere and is calling for the rebels’ withdrawal. The humanitarian crisis is escalating, with rising fatalities and urgent calls for peace from the local population.
Original Source: apnews.com
