UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo amid ongoing violence from M23 rebels. He emphasized the humanitarian crisis resulting in significant civilian casualties and displacement, calling for collective efforts to mediate the escalating conflict. Guterres’ remarks highlight the urgency of addressing the situation and respecting human rights.
On Thursday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addressed the ongoing violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), emphasizing that “it is time for peace.” He characterized the DRC’s situation as “deeply concerning” and called for a unified effort for peace during a press briefing at the UN headquarters in New York.
Guterres outlined upcoming discussions involving leaders from the East African Community and the Southern African Development Community focused on the conflict with M23 rebels and the Congolese military. He noted upcoming summits in Tanzania and Addis Ababa to further address this crisis, indicating the severity of the situation.
Highlighting the humanitarian crisis, Guterres reported significant casualties, with thousands of civilians killed and many displaced due to clashes between armed groups and government forces. He expressed alarm over the humanitarian conditions in Goma, where healthcare services are overwhelmed and basic public utilities are in dire straits.
The UN chief made a fervent plea for peace, stating, “Silence the guns. Stop the escalation. Respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.” He urged for mediation efforts and underscored the absence of a military solution to this conflict.
The violence in Goma has escalated following a significant offensive by M23 against government troops. Reports indicate that over 900 people have died, with thousands displaced, leading many to seek refuge in neighboring Rwanda. Amidst this turmoil, M23 recently announced a unilateral ceasefire after intense fighting for Goma.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in conflict for decades, with various armed groups vying for power and control over resources. The M23 rebel group, which has resurfaced recently, poses a significant challenge to regional stability. The crisis has led to severe humanitarian consequences, with widespread displacement and loss of life. The UN and regional bodies are trying to mediate efforts to restore peace and uphold human rights in the region.
Guterres’ call for peace in the DRC highlights the urgent need for a collaborative international effort to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The escalating violence, displacing thousands and causing significant civilian casualties, underscores the importance of mediation and respect for human rights. Stakeholders must prioritize peace initiatives to prevent further deterioration of the situation and ensure the safety and well-being of the Congolese population.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
