Residents of Goma, Congo, are fearful following claims of a takeover by M23 rebels backed by Rwanda. Gunfire and military presence contributed to the uncertainty. The Congolese government has declared a state of war, and many civilians are fleeing the city, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis amidst escalating violence.
Residents of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, faced a tense morning following claims by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels that they had taken control of the area. Gunfire and military activity were reported overnight, heightening fears among the population. While some residents observed the marching soldiers with curiosity, it remains unclear if they were indeed part of the M23 group, as the Congolese government has not corroborated the takeover claims.
The M23 rebels, who have garnered support from Rwanda, are among roughly 100 armed factions in a region afflicted by decades of conflict over valuable minerals. The group has a history of briefly capturing Goma in 2012 before resurfacing in late 2021 with alleged increased assistance from Rwanda, a claim that the latter has consistently denied. With ongoing violence, experts warn that the situation could further destabilize an already troubled area, home to over 6 million displaced individuals, many of whom reside in North Kivu.
The United Nations Security Council issued a statement on Sunday urging the M23 group to cease its advances and respect the Democratic Republic of Congo’s sovereignty. The body condemned the rebels for undermining the territorial integrity of the DRC and demanded that parallel administrations be dismantled in the regions under their control. The rebels had previously set a deadline for Congolese forces to surrender before announcing their claim to Goma.
In response to the escalating conflict, the Congolese government has declared a state of war, accusing Rwanda of aggression and severing diplomatic relations with its neighbor. Civilian panic ensued as residents embarked on foot towards Rwanda, fearing violence and bombings along the border. Witnesses reported seeing soldiers engaged in combat, prompting many to flee with only their belongings.
The UN’s special representative for Congo stated during an emergency session that residents felt trapped due to blocked roads and a closed airport. Recent weeks have seen a tragic uptick in hostilities, resulting in the deaths of 13 UN peacekeepers, underlining the dire security situation in Goma. The Uruguayan contingent serving with the UN peacekeeping mission reported that over 100 Congolese soldiers had laid down their arms to the rebels.
The conflict in eastern Congo, particularly in areas like Goma, has persisted for decades and is linked to struggles over access to valuable mineral resources. Various armed groups, including the M23 rebels, continue to vie for power, often resulting in severe humanitarian crises. Rwanda’s involvement in supporting these groups further complicates an already complex geopolitical situation, prompting concerns about regional stability and international diplomatic relations. Displacement and violence due to armed conflict remain critical issues, with millions affected by the ongoing strife.
In conclusion, the situation in Goma remains precarious as fear engulfs its residents amidst claims of a rebel takeover. The longstanding conflict, exacerbated by external support and humanitarian crises, continues to threaten regional stability. The international community watches closely as diplomatic efforts falter and local populations seek safety amid intense violence, raising urgent calls for a resolution to the crisis.
Original Source: apnews.com
