The M23 armed group, supported by Rwanda, has declared a ceasefire in eastern DRC effective February 4, 2025, for humanitarian reasons. Following their takeover of Goma, the group has stated it will not advance towards Bukavu. This announcement coincides with a regional summit aimed at addressing the conflict, amidst significant casualties and displacements reported in the area.
The M23 armed group, supported by Rwandan forces, has declared a unilateral ceasefire in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This ceasefire is to take effect on February 4, 2025, and is aimed at addressing the humanitarian crisis aggravated by ongoing hostilities. The announcement follows the recent capture of Goma, a critical city, where the UN reports at least 900 fatalities and extensive displacements among the population.
In its statement, the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC/M23) pledged not to attack Bukavu or any other areas, asserting its commitment to civilian protection. M23’s spokesman, Lawrence Kanyuka, emphasized that the group does not intend to pursue further territorial gains in the region. Nevertheless, the DRC government has not publicly responded to the ceasefire declaration, raising questions about its enforcement and potential military responses.
The ceasefire coincides with a forthcoming regional summit that will involve leaders from both Rwanda and the DRC. Although previous peace negotiations have been unsuccessful in engaging the two presidents, there is optimism that this forum may provide a pathway to dialogue. The G7 foreign ministers have called on all parties involved to resume negotiations and facilitate humanitarian access to affected civilians.
The ongoing conflict in the DRC is deeply rooted in ethnic tensions and historical grievances, particularly involving Tutsi populations who sought refuge following the Rwandan genocide. The DRC government accuses Rwandan-backed rebels of exploiting the country’s rich natural resources, perpetuating cycles of violence and displacement. This enduring strife underscores the urgent need for humanitarian assistance to those affected in the region.
The conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has a long and complicated history, driven by ethnic conflict and geopolitical tensions, particularly between Rwandan and Congolese forces. The M23 rebel group arose partly as a response to the marginalization of Tutsis in Congo, many of whom fled to the country during the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The rebels’ actions have generated significant international concern due to the scale of human suffering, including mass displacements and humanitarian crises across eastern DRC.
The M23’s declaration of a ceasefire is a significant development amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the DRC, where violence has led to numerous casualties and displacements. The group’s stated intentions to halt offensives and protect civilians could create openings for peace negotiations previously hindered by geopolitical tensions. However, the effectiveness of this ceasefire remains contingent upon the DRC government’s response and the ability of regional leaders to facilitate meaningful dialogue and humanitarian aid access.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
