The Ugandan army has deployed troops to Mahagi in northeastern DRC following civilian massacres attributed to Codeco militants. This action is part of a broader strategy to stabilize the area under increasing pressure from armed groups, notably the M23, supported by Rwanda. The situation remains tense amid fears of renewed regional conflict reminiscent of past wars.
On Sunday, the Ugandan army confirmed the deployment of troops to Mahagi, a town in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), to combat local armed groups and address rising fears of a broader conflict. Army spokesman Felix Kulayigye stated, “Our troops have entered Mahagi town and we are in control,” emphasizing the intent to quell violence instigated by the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (Codeco).
The deployment follows a request by the Congolese army due to a surge in violence linked to Codeco militias, who are accused of massacres resulting in the deaths of at least 51 civilians on February 10. This militia claims to protect the interests of the Lendu community against the Hema community, primarily engaged in herding.
Uganda has maintained a significant military presence in Ituri province under a prior agreement with the Congolese government and is already involved in operations against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in the region. Last month, Ugandan forces reportedly established control over Bunia, the capital of Ituri.
Concerns have proliferated regarding the situation in DRC as Ituri lies near provinces under the influence of the M23 group, which has taken control of several key areas, including Goma and Bukavu, backed by Rwandan support.
The DRC’s army recently denied claims about the capture of fighters associated with the Rwandan genocide, declaring a video showcasing this as fabricated. The M23 group had previously announced its capture of fighters from the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militia with roots in the genocide.
Rwanda’s justification for supporting the M23 hinges on allegations concerning the presence of FDLR fighters in DRC. Congolese military officials dismissed the claims made by Rwandan authorities, stating, “This is part of the Rwandan strategy to justify the invasion of parts of the DRC’s territory.” Analysts warn that the evolving military presence of Uganda and Rwanda may resemble the conditions leading to the Second Congo War, which resulted in immense loss of life between 1998 and 2003.
The deployment of Ugandan troops to Mahagi is a response to escalating violence perpetrated by the Codeco militia and reflects concerns over a potential wider regional conflict. With the presence of multiple armed groups and international dynamics involving Rwanda, the situation remains precarious, echoing historical conflicts in the region that have caused significant humanitarian crises.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
