The UN human rights chief, Volker Türk, has accused Rwanda-backed M23 rebels of killing children and attacking humanitarian aid sites in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Following the rebels’ seizure of Bukavu, evidence of children’s involvement with weapons has surfaced, prompting calls for investigations into severe human rights violations. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant fatalities and displacement in the region, raising concerns over a humanitarian crisis fueled by the struggle for control of mineral resources.
In a significant statement, the UN human rights chief, Volker Türk, has condemned Rwanda-backed rebels, known as M23, for engaging in grievous actions, including the killing of children and attacking humanitarian aid facilities in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). His remarks follow the rebels’ recent seizure of Bukavu, a city with a population of 1.3 million, and highlight alarming reports of child recruitment by these armed groups.
Mr. Türk’s statement indicated that his office has verified instances of children being executed by M23 fighters upon their entrance into Bukavu. Furthermore, he mentioned the disturbing fact that children were found to be in possession of weapons. This claim aligns with prior accusations against both M23 and Congolese government forces regarding the recruitment of minors. The UN Human Rights Council has initiated a commission to investigate acts of violence, including rape and summary executions, committed by both parties since the beginning of the year.
M23’s capture of Bukavu follows their previous takeover of Goma in the month prior, with reports of at least 3,000 fatalities and thousands being displaced during the conflicts in that area. M23 is currently one of over 100 armed factions competing for control of rich mineral resources in eastern DRC, a region vital for global technology production. Notably, the rebels reportedly have the support of approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, as indicated by UN experts.
In response to ongoing violence, Rwanda has accused the DRC of mobilizing Hutu fighters linked to the 1994 genocide against Tutsis. M23 asserts that their objective is to protect Tutsis and other Congolese individuals of Rwandan descent from persecution while advocating for a transformation of the DRC into a more stable and prosperous nation. Critics of the group claim that this narrative merely serves as justification for Rwanda’s intervention.
Recent analysis suggests that unlike a previous episode in 2012 when M23 briefly occupied Goma, this time the rebels are potentially pursuing political power within the DRC. The longstanding conflict has resulted in the displacement of over six million individuals, creating a humanitarian disaster of immense proportions. A Ugandan military spokesperson announced that Ugandan forces have entered the eastern city of Bunia to assist the Congolese army in addressing violence perpetrated by ethnic groups.
UN human rights chief Volker Türk has made grave allegations against M23 rebels supported by Rwanda, citing child killings and recruitment, particularly during their takeover of significant cities in eastern DRC. With notable violence leading to thousands of deaths and widespread displacement, the situation underscores a complex humanitarian crisis exacerbated by regional dynamics. Ongoing investigations aim to address the severe human rights violations in this conflict-ridden area.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
