The UN human rights chief has condemned M23 rebels for murdering children and attacking healthcare facilities in eastern DRC. This follows their recent capture of Bukavu and Goma, exacerbating an ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting millions. The UN is investigating various atrocities, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability amidst the intensifying conflict.
The UN human rights chief has accused Rwanda-backed M23 rebels of heinous crimes, including the murder of children and attacks on medical facilities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Volker Türk noted that his office has verified instances of child executions by the rebels following their recent takeover of Bukavu, indicating the presence of child soldiers armed with weapons.
Although specific incidents were not detailed, it has been previously reported that both the Congolese government forces and the M23 rebels have engaged in child recruitment. Earlier this month, the United Nations Human Rights Council initiated an investigation into various atrocities committed by both factions, including sexual violence and extrajudicial killings occurring since the year began.
After capturing Bukavu, home to 1.3 million residents, the M23 rebels have escalated their control in the region, having also seized Goma last month. Violent confrontations in Goma have resulted in at least 3,000 reported fatalities and the displacement of thousands.
As one of over 100 armed groups in eastern DRC, the M23 rebels, which draws support from approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, are motivated by the significant mineral resources of the area. Rwanda accuses DRC of enlisting Hutu fighters linked to the 1994 genocide, while M23 claims to defend the rights of Tutsis and Rwandans in DRC, calling for state reform.
Analysts suggest that, unlike in 2012 when the M23 briefly controlled Goma, the rebels now seek lasting political influence. The ongoing conflicts have wreaked havoc, displacing over six million individuals and resulting in the largest humanitarian crisis worldwide.
In response to the violence, Ugandan military forces have entered the eastern Congolese city of Bunia, aiming to support local military efforts against armed ethnic factions.
The UN human rights chief’s condemnation of M23 rebels highlights alarming allegations of child killings and recruitment in eastern DRC, amidst worsening violence. The situation escalates with regional complexities involving Rwanda and the humanitarian crisis affecting millions. Investigations into these abuses by the UN are crucial as the conflict persists and civilian suffering intensifies.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
