M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, capture Goma and assure safety to locals. Their leader promises stability and the return of displaced people. Despite a declared ceasefire, fighting continues with doubts about the rebels’ intentions. Malawi announces troop withdrawals in response to the ceasefire declaration, aiming for negotiations.
Rwanda-backed M23 rebels captured the eastern Congolese city of Goma and assured the residents of their safety during a rally held at the city stadium. M23’s political leader, Corneille Nangaa, stated that Goma has been ‘liberated and sanitized,’ promising a return to normalcy with schools reopening and displaced individuals coming back home. The rebels aim to maintain public support amidst growing international scrutiny and have claimed to focus on security as their top priority.
The M23 is backed by around 4,000 Rwandan troops, making it one of the most formidable groups among the over 100 armed factions operating in Eastern Congo. Analysts suggest that this time, unlike their 2012 incursion, the M23 is intent on attaining political authority and demonstrating their governance capabilities. Even after declaring a ceasefire, reports indicated that the rebels captured another town rich in resources critical to technology, demonstrating ongoing military ambitions despite claims of peace.
Congo’s government reacted by labeling the ceasefire as a ‘false communication,’ with the UN reporting continued clashes in different eastern regions. The humanitarian situation remains dire, as Goma was previously an essential hub for displaced persons prior to the M23 takeover. Local resident Emmanuel Kakule conveyed concerns about ongoing insecurity, indicating skepticism regarding the rebels’ plans despite attending the rally.
In response to the evolving conflict, Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera announced preparations for the withdrawal of his country’s peacekeepers in eastern Congo. This decision is in light of the M23’s ceasefire announcement, aimed at facilitating negotiations for lasting peace. The announcement follows casualties among Malawian and South African troops involved in the ongoing conflict, highlighting the urgency of establishing stability in the region.
The article discusses the current situation in eastern Congo, focusing on the M23 rebel group’s capture of Goma and their subsequent assurances to the local population regarding safety and stability. This situation occurs amid a backdrop of regional conflict and foreign military involvement, particularly from Rwanda, emphasizing the complexities of governing and maintaining peace in mineral-rich areas of Congo. The international response involves scrutiny of the ceasefire and humanitarian concerns for displaced residents.
The M23 rebels, backed by Rwandan troops, have captured Goma and are attempting to reassure residents of security and stability while also navigating international pressure. Despite claims of a ceasefire, conflicts persist, and the humanitarian situation remains critical. The situation prompts regional responses, including troop withdrawals from Malawi as the need for a negotiated peace becomes evident.
Original Source: apnews.com
