The Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) calls for a ceasefire in eastern DRC after fighting with the military results in hundreds of deaths. Accusations against Rwanda complicate the situation, and the military’s response to the ceasefire remains unclear. Health facilities are overwhelmed due to rising casualties, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian aid.
A rebel coalition known as Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), which includes the M23 group, has called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This announcement comes after violent clashes with the Congolese military resulted in hundreds of fatalities. The alliance cites a humanitarian crisis as the reason for their truce, which is set to take effect Tuesday.
The DRC government and many in the international community have accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, complicating the conflict further. The response from the Congolese military regarding the ceasefire remains uncertain, as past agreements have failed to halt fighting. When asked about the rebel statement, General Sylvain Ekenge dismissed it as a disingenuous maneuver intended for international perception.
UN experts suggest that thousands of Rwandan soldiers are backing M23 operations, significantly strengthening their numerical advantage. DRC President Felix Tshisekedi has promised a robust military response against the rebels, whom he accuses of being manipulated by Rwanda. Meanwhile, Rwandan President Paul Kagame claimed ignorance regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in eastern DRC.
Last week, fighting intensified as the M23 rebels pushed into Goma, North Kivu’s capital, leading to the deaths of numerous foreign peacekeepers and severe local displacement. Reports indicate that over 900 corpses have been retrieved, alongside nearly 2,880 injuries. Healthcare facilities in the area are reportedly overwhelmed and in dire need of supplies.
The AFC has insisted they don’t aim to seize further territories like Bukavu, despite previous statements indicating otherwise. They emphasize their role in protecting civilians. Rebel leader Corneille Nangaa, however, stated previously that the grouping’s intent is to advance to the DRC’s capital, Kinshasa, signifying ongoing territorial ambitions.
The ongoing conflict in the DRC has roots in regional tensions and historical grievances, largely fueled by the activities of armed groups and international involvement. The M23 group emerged in 2012, claiming to fight for the rights of marginalized communities in the eastern regions. The DRC government, alongside international organizations, has sought to stabilize the area while managing accusations against neighboring Rwanda for its influence over these rebel factions. Despite peacekeeping efforts and multiple ceasefires, violence continues as armed groups exploit political and ethnic divisions. The situation is exacerbated by economic struggles and infrastructural challenges in the DRC’s eastern provinces, making humanitarian response difficult and urgent.
The call for a ceasefire by the Alliance Fleuve Congo is a response to escalating humanitarian crises as fighting has left significant casualties in the DRC. Accusations against Rwanda for supporting the M23 rebels add complexity to the conflict, limiting the potential for peaceful resolutions. International response and the Congolese military’s stance will be crucial in determining the future stability of the region amidst ongoing violence.
Original Source: www.wral.com