Protesters in Kinshasa attacked foreign embassies, blaming them for inaction over the M23 rebel conflict in eastern DRC. The demonstrations turned violent, resulting in damage to embassies, including France’s. The M23 has claimed control over Goma, prompting rising concern from the international community and a UN Security Council meeting planned to discuss the humanitarian crisis.
Protesters in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), have directed their wrath at several foreign embassies, including those of France, Belgium, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and the United States. This demonstration was prompted by calls for decisive international action to address the ongoing threats posed by the M23 rebel group in eastern DRC. Smoke was witnessed rising from the French embassy as protests escalated into violence, leading to structural damage after a fire broke out.
The demonstrators criticized what they perceive as inaction from the international community concerning the conflict. They have accused the attacked countries of either complicity or negligence in relation to Rwanda’s alleged backing of the M23 rebels, an accusation that Rwanda continues to refute. Following the ambassadorial attacks, France’s Foreign Minister called the incident “unacceptable” and confirmed that the embassy fire was extinguished quickly.
Members of the Kinshasa Police utilized tear gas to disperse the crowds, who were engaged in acts of arson and violent confrontations with law enforcement. Musalia Mudavadi, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, expressed profound concern regarding the assaults on the Kenyan embassy, characterizing them as “a grave violation of international law.” He condemned the protests that transitioned into violent confrontations.
In the backdrop of these protests, the M23 rebel group has claimed to have seized control of Goma, the chief city in North Kivu province. The United Nations reports a significant increase in violence, with the conflict resulting in the deaths of at least 17 peacekeepers, including three from South Africa. This situation unfolds as the M23 seeks to bolster its control over strategic mineral mines in eastern DRC.
Analysts, such as Al Jazeera’s Malcolm Webb, highlight widespread sentiment in the DRC that Rwanda and Uganda are exacerbating the conflict. He noted that Western countries’ embassies are scrutinized for their support of Rwanda amidst ongoing bloodshed. Reports from Goma indicate a dimming of gunfire, although medical facilities remain overwhelmed as locals face barriers accessing healthcare amid violence.
In response to the crisis, the United Nations Security Council is scheduled to convene to discuss the deteriorating humanitarian circumstance stemming from the conflict. The international community continues to keep a watchful eye on the situation, hoping for a peaceful resolution amidst escalating tensions.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is experiencing ongoing conflict primarily fueled by various armed groups, including the March 23 Movement (M23), which has been accused of garnering support from neighboring Rwanda. Tensions have been particularly pronounced in the eastern region, where the M23’s activities have led to increased violence and humanitarian crises. Recent protests in Kinshasa reflect growing frustration over the perceived inaction of the international community in responding to these conflicts and the subsequent attacks on foreign embassies signal a desperate plea for global intervention.
The protests in Kinshasa exemplify the rising frustrations within the DRC regarding the international response to the ongoing conflict fueled by the M23 rebel group. The attacks on multiple embassies reflect deep sentiments of discontent and accusations against foreign nations. As violence escalates in Goma, the need for a decisive and effective international strategy to address the violence and humanitarian needs in the region becomes ever more critical, with the UN Security Council set to address the emerging crisis.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
