U.S. Ambassador Lucy Tamlyn condemned the M23 rebels for kidnapping patients from hospitals in Goma, emphasizing accountability for human rights violations. The rebels’ denials of the incidents were dismissed as lacking credibility. The conflict, intensified since December, has resulted in significant territorial control by M23 and the displacement of thousands, with ongoing allegations against Rwanda for their support of the rebel group.
The United States Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Lucy Tamlyn, has unequivocally condemned the actions of the M23 rebels following their recent abduction of patients from hospitals in eastern Goma. She has asserted that the group must be held accountable for its violations of human rights. According to Ms. Tamlyn, these actions reflect the rebels’ blatant disregard for peace in eastern DRC and contempt for its inhabitants.
The UN has reported that M23 abducted over 130 patients from hospitals in Goma, falsely claiming to be part of the Congolese army or the pro-government Wazalendo militia. In response, the M23 rebels rejected these allegations, characterizing the reports as a deliberate attempt to damage their reputation. Nevertheless, Tamlyn has dismissed their denials and emphasized the necessity for accountability for human rights violations.
The escalating conflict has led to M23 seizing control of significant areas, including Goma and Bukavu, prompting the provincial government to relocate its administration temporarily to Uvira. This ongoing violence has resulted in countless citizens being displaced to various regions and neighboring countries, as documented by the UN. There are accusations against Rwanda for supporting M23, which Rwanda has refuted.
The M23 group claims to represent the interests of the minority Congolese Tutsis, alleging discrimination against them due to their ethnic ties with Rwanda’s Tutsi community. Recent days have seen Germany joining the United States and the United Kingdom in imposing financial sanctions on Rwanda amidst this conflict.
In summary, U.S. Ambassador Lucy Tamlyn has condemned the M23 rebels for their recent hospital kidnappings, emphasizing the need for accountability regarding human rights violations. The ongoing conflict in DRC continues to displace thousands of citizens, while allegations of Rwandan support for the rebels remain contentious. The necessity for an immediate ceasefire and respect for Congo’s sovereignty has been reiterated amidst escalating violence and displacement.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
