African leaders have called for an immediate ceasefire in the DRC at a summit in Tanzania, responding to the escalating threat from the M23 armed group. The group has rapidly taken territory, prompting fears of increased violence and regional conflict. Humanitarian efforts are essential to address the crisis as thousands have been killed or displaced.
A summit convened by African leaders in Tanzania resulted in a unanimous call for an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) within the next five days. This decision follows the escalating violence perpetrated by the M23 armed group, which has recently captured significant areas in eastern DRC, leading to extensive fatalities and displacements. Attendees included Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, with the former participating in person and the latter via video link.
The summit’s closing statement urged military leaders from both the East African Community and Southern African Development Community to convene within five days to expedite a ceasefire and facilitate the establishment of humanitarian corridors for the evacuation of casualties. Simultaneously, active hostilities continued approximately 60 kilometers from Bakuvu, the capital of South Kivu province, as the M23 pushed deeper into the region following its recent takeover of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province.
Despite the DRC government and international allegations of Rwandan support for the M23, Rwanda has denied such claims. However, United Nations reports suggest the existence of Rwandan troops operating within the DRC and engaging in extensive mineral smuggling efforts. Tensions are further exacerbated by Rwanda’s accusations against the DRC for harboring the FDLR, a group linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
The M23’s advance has raised concerns regarding potential regional conflict as neighboring countries have provided military assistance to the DRC. Reports indicate that the group’s forces are closing in on the strategic town of Kavumu, thereby threatening critical supply lines to Congolese troops. Local communities are experiencing widespread panic, with residents attempting to flee as the situation deteriorates.
UN rights chief Volker Turk has expressed grave concerns, noting that approximately 3,000 people have been confirmed killed since the M23’s assault began, while casualties may ultimately be much higher. His office is investigating enduring allegations of severe human rights violations, including instances of sexual violence. The M23 has asserted its intent to advance toward Kinshasa, the national capital, despite the challenges presented by the vast geographical distance totaling about 1,000 miles. The DRC army, facing significant operational difficulties, has suffered several setbacks against the advancing rebel forces.
The summit of African leaders has highlighted the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire amidst the ongoing violence in the DRC. With the M23 making significant territorial gains, fears of a broader regional conflict are rising. The call for humanitarian corridors underscores the dire humanitarian situation on the ground, requiring immediate attention. As investigations into human rights violations continue, the international community must remain vigilant and proactive in seeking a resolution.
Original Source: www.kpvi.com
