Burundi troops have deployed in Eastern DRC as the UK suspends aid to Rwanda due to M23 fighters supported by Rwanda seizing major cities. The ongoing violence poses severe humanitarian challenges, with regional leaders advocating for a ceasefire. Recent declines in population in various towns underscore the urgency for political solutions to this crisis, amidst rising casualties reported by officials.
On Tuesday, Burundi troops, allied with Kinshasa, commenced deployment in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amidst the UK’s decision to suspend most direct bilateral aid to Rwanda. This aid suspension is a reaction to the ongoing offensive by the M23 fighters, who are reportedly supported by Rwandan soldiers and have taken control of key cities in the region. The violence has persisted for nearly three decades, resulting in millions of casualties.
The M23 group’s recent advances include seizing Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, and capturing Goma, the principal city in North Kivu, which marks a significant escalation since their resurgence in late 2021. The DRC military’s lack of effective resistance has allowed M23 fighters to gain ground, sparking concerns about the humanitarian crisis. A UK government representative emphasized the need for a political resolution, declaring that military action is not acceptable when addressing Rwanda’s security concerns.
Reports indicate that M23 fighters are approaching Uvira near Lake Tanganyika, while Burundian troops are moving to counter this advance. Local residents have observed heavily armed Burundian soldiers relocating towards Luvungi, with pro-Kinshasa militias joining forces. The town of Kamanyola, under the threat of escalating violence, is experiencing depopulation as its residents flee conflict.
In response to the unrest, South African soldiers wounded in previous engagements have returned home, reflecting the broader regional instability. In parallel, a trio of former African leaders has been appointed to mediate peace efforts, with an International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor highlighting the urgent need to address the situation in Eastern DRC.
A summit by the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) led to conclusions advocating for an immediate ceasefire and the merging of prior peace processes. This collaborative effort aims to ensure humanitarian aid and stabilizing Goma’s airport. DRC Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka reported alarming death tolls from the conflict, underscoring the pressing need for robust intervention.
As the situation evolves, the emphasis on achieving a ceasefire and alleviating humanitarian suffering remains paramount for regional stability and peace.
The deployment of Burundi troops in Eastern DRC highlights the persistent unrest fueled by M23 advances, compounded by regional interventions such as the proposed peace process led by former African leaders. The UK’s aid suspension reflects the international community’s response to the escalating conflict supported by Rwanda. With alarming casualties reported and local populations fleeing, it is crucial that diplomatic efforts prioritize an immediate ceasefire to mitigate further humanitarian crises and restore stability in the region.
Original Source: www.communitynewspapergroup.com
