AFC, a rebel coalition in the DRC, has called for a humanitarian ceasefire following violent conflicts that resulted in hundreds of deaths in Goma. The authenticity of this ceasefire is questioned by DRC military officials amid allegations of Rwandan support for the rebels. The ongoing fighting has left healthcare facilities overwhelmed and the humanitarian crisis continues to worsen as displacements escalate.
A rebel group in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), which includes the M23 faction, has declared an immediate humanitarian ceasefire following intense fighting that resulted in hundreds of casualties. This announcement comes amid claims of humanitarian crises instigated by the DRC government, referred to by the rebels as the “Kinshasa regime.” However, it remains uncertain whether the Congolese army will accept the ceasefire, as past agreements have not halted hostilities.
General Sylvain Ekenge, military spokesperson for the DRC, stated that the rebels’ ceasefire call lacks authenticity. He characterized the announcement as disingenuous, aimed at misleading the international community. Concurrently, UN experts suggest that a substantial number of Rwandan troops, estimated at 3,000 to 4,000, are reportedly supporting M23 fighters, complicating the conflict between the DRC and the militant group.
Last week, DRC President Felix Tshisekedi condemned the M23 as a proxy for Rwanda, pledging a robust military response. Despite this, Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed ignorance regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in eastern DRC. The fighting intensified as the rebels advanced towards Goma, resulting in numerous casualties among foreign peacekeepers and substantial displacement among the local populace.
Recent UN reports indicate a grim toll in Goma, with at least 900 bodies recovered and nearly 2,880 injuries reported due to the violence. Medical facilities are reportedly overwhelmed and lacking essential supplies. The rebels have asserted their intention not to expand their territorial ambitions into other provinces while claiming a duty to protect civilians. Nonetheless, previous statements reflected an ambition to capture additional cities, including Goma, Bukavu, and even Kinshasa.
Rebel leader Corneille Nangaa previously indicated an aggressive posture toward advancing into Kinshasa. He stated, “We have come to Goma to stay; we are not going to withdraw. We are going to move forward from Goma to Bukavu … up to Kinshasa.” As dynamics evolve in this conflict, the humanitarian situation in Goma remains critical, warranting urgent international attention.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC has historical roots in regional tensions, particularly involving neighboring Rwanda, which has been accused of backing rebel factions. The M23 group, which is part of the AFC, has previously conducted military operations causing severe humanitarian crises. As the situation escalates, international observers have expressed growing concern regarding the potential for further violence and instability in the region. Healthcare systems in conflict areas are typically overstretched, leading to significant casualties and displacement. The involvement of regional actors like Rwanda further complicates the peace process, as accusations of support for rebels lead to strained diplomatic relations. The government’s response includes military action against the rebels, while humanitarian organizations strive to address the urgent needs of affected populations. This conflict highlights the complex interplay between local and international dynamics in the DRC, with significant implications for regional stability and humanitarian conditions. As rebel forces manage to advance into key territories, the call for ceasefires often appears as a maneuver for leverage, making negotiations difficult.
The call for a ceasefire by the AFC amidst rising casualties reflects a critical juncture in the DRC’s conflict. With deep-rooted tensions involving regional powers, the humanitarian impact is alarming, necessitating urgent international intervention. As military and diplomatic efforts unfold, the complexity of the situation demands keen observation to safeguard civilian welfare and pursue stability in the region.
Original Source: www.wral.com
