Congo’s Catholic Church representatives met rebel leader Corneille Nangaa amid tensions with the government. Nangaa’s M23 has seized Goma and threatens Bukavu, igniting fears of increased conflict. Rwanda’s alleged support for the rebels complicates the situation, which has led to significant displacement and casualties in eastern Congo. The church seeks a dialogue format acceptable to all parties involved.
A delegation from Congo’s influential Catholic Church met on Wednesday with rebel leader Corneille Nangaa in Goma, a move that could create tension with the government in Kinshasa. Nangaa leads the M23 rebel group, which recently captured Goma and asserts his faction’s role in opposing President Felix Tshisekedi. The M23 regards itself as part of Nangaa’s political alliance, the Alliance Fleuve Congo, aiming to unify dissident groups in the east.
Nangaa’s forces have threatened to advance towards Bukavu in South Kivu after taking control of Goma since January. The church officials involved in the meeting aim to gather opinions from different factions to develop a dialogue framework acceptable to all parties. Regarding the meeting, Tshisekedi’s office expressed willingness to engage, emphasizing the need for inclusivity in discussions.
Tensions are rising as M23 confrontations and potential battles loom around Bukavu. Clashes are reported near Ihusi, with both military and M23 sources confirming ongoing conflicts. While Bukavu and the strategically important town of Kavumu remain under the control of the Congolese army aided by local militias and Burundian troops, the situation remains precarious.
Concerns regarding Rwanda’s involvement in the conflict persist, with allegations of Rwandan troops supporting the M23. The Rwandan government claims it is acting defensively in the region. The escalating violence in eastern Congo has led to significant casualties and displacement, with over a million people affected since early 2022.
Despite the turmoil, a semblance of calm has returned to Goma, as daily life resumes and many displaced individuals begin to leave camps. M23 stated that displaced persons should vacate camps voluntarily within a 72-hour window.
This complex situation highlights the interplay between political allegiances, armed conflict, and humanitarian crises in the region.
The meeting between the Congo Catholic Church delegation and rebel leader Corneille Nangaa signifies potential shifts in political dynamics amidst ongoing violence in eastern Congo. With M23’s control over Goma and threats towards Bukavu, the situation remains unstable. The involvement of Rwandan forces adds to concerns about broader regional conflicts, while humanitarian implications continue to grow as more than a million individuals are displaced. Dialogue efforts initiated by the church aim to establish an inclusive political solution.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
