African leaders await a response to ceasefire calls in eastern DRC amidst fighting between the M23 group and government forces. Following a summit, leaders urged military commanders to negotiate terms for peace. The situation remains dire, with thousands killed and many fleeing violence. Ongoing tensions involve accusations of foreign military involvement and resource exploitation, complicating humanitarian efforts.
African leaders are awaiting a response to their call for a ceasefire in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where fighting has erupted between the M23 armed group and government forces. Following a summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, leaders from eastern and southern Africa urged military commanders from both factions to convene within five days to negotiate a peace agreement and provide immediate ceasefire details.
The summit discussions included Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who denied support for the M23 group, and Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, who participated via video link. This diplomatic push follows M23’s recent takeover of Goma, escalating tensions as they advance into South Kivu province.
The UN reports a dire situation, indicating over 3,000 fatalities and numerous injuries due to ongoing hostilities. Many civilians have fled the violence, and the humanitarian conditions have worsened, prompting the need for established evacuation corridors for the deceased and injured.
UN assessments suggest Rwanda may have deployed troops in the DRC amidst allegations of exploiting local resources like gold and coltan. Rwanda accuses the DRC of harboring the FDLR, a militia linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide, complicating the conflict further.
UN rights Chief Volker Turk warned of escalating dangers if immediate actions are not undertaken, emphasizing the urgent need for peace. Despite previous failed negotiations and ceasefires since the M23 resurgence in 2021, the current peace talks aim to bring stability under the East African Community and Southern African Development Community’s initiatives.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC primarily involves the M23 armed group, which re-emerged in 2021, leading to increased violence and humanitarian crises. The DRC’s government and its neighbor Rwanda are at odds over accusations of supporting militia groups, further complicating peace talks. Recent international efforts, including summits and UN involvement, are aimed at stabilizing the region and addressing human rights concerns amid escalating violence.
The situation in eastern DRC remains critical as African leaders seek to implement a ceasefire between the M23 armed group and government forces. Coordination among military chiefs is essential for establishing peace, with ongoing humanitarian issues exacerbating the crisis. The international community, including the UN, continues to emphasize the importance of collaboration to prevent regional instability, urging both parties to prioritize dialogue and ceasefire efforts.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
