Monsignor Donatien Nshole, Secretary General of the Bishops’ Conference of the DRC, declared the eastern region’s humanitarian and security situation as catastrophic, following intense conflicts involving M23 rebels and government forces. The fighting has displaced over 200,000 individuals and exacerbated human rights abuses, prompting calls for prayer and peace initiatives amid ongoing diplomatic failures.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Monsignor Donatien Nshole, Secretary General of the Bishops’ Conference, has described the humanitarian and security situation in the eastern region as catastrophic. His remarks followed a meeting with Minister of Justice Constant Mutamba, amidst ongoing violence between government troops and M23 rebels. The conflict has displaced over 200,000 people, exacerbated by alleged Rwandan military support for the rebels.
Monsignor Nshole emphasized the dire circumstances faced by displaced families, orphaned children, and others affected by the conflict. “The security situation, the humanitarian situation is catastrophic,” he stated, underscoring the urgent need for peace and prayer. Meanwhile, reports indicate rising panic as M23 forces reportedly captured the town of Sake, close to Goma, causing mass displacement and chaos.
Elie Mbulegheti from Caritas Butembo-Beni highlighted that fighting has led to famine and widespread human rights abuses. He urged that vital services like healthcare and education are increasingly unattainable for vulnerable populations. The International Red Cross reported a surge in casualties, with hospitals overwhelmed by wounded individuals.
A recent report by Amnesty International condemned the actions of both the Congolese Armed Forces and M23 rebels, accusing them of violating international humanitarian law. This encompasses the use of explosive weapons in populated areas, which has resulted in civilian casualties, indicating that war crimes may have occurred. The ongoing conflict has persisted since the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide in 1994, creating prolonged instability in the region.
Attempts to resolve the conflict through diplomatic talks have failed, but both governmental and religious leaders are emphasizing the power of prayer as a means to foster peace. A day of prayer has been scheduled for February 9, 2025, to call for an end to violence and the establishment of lasting peace in the DRC.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been enduring one of the world’s most protracted conflicts since the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide in 1994. Instability in the eastern region, fueled by fighting among multiple armed groups, has led to severe humanitarian crises, including mass displacement. Recent confrontations between government forces and the M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have worsened the situation, with claims of human rights violations being raised. The Catholic Church in the DRC is advocating for peace, underscoring the significance of prayer in seeking resolution.
The situation in eastern Congo remains dire, characterized by catastrophic humanitarian conditions and increased violence. With substantial displacement and a growing need for essential services, calls for peace through prayer are being echoed by both church and state. As diplomatic efforts falter, the emphasis on spiritual intervention reflects the desperate hope for a resolution to decades of conflict in the region.
Original Source: cruxnow.com
