M23 rebels captured Kavumu airport in eastern Congo, heightening regional tensions. President Tshisekedi accused Rwanda of expansionism, calling for sanctions. M23 claimed their actions safeguarded civilians. Meanwhile, the African Union prepares to address the escalating crisis amid calls for a ceasefire as the situation grows more dire with M23’s increased control.
M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, have taken control of a second airport, Kavumu, in eastern Congo as per security reports. This event is significant as it removes a key military obstacle in South Kivu, a province rich in minerals and plagued by over a hundred armed groups vying for control. The situation escalates tensions in the region, already marred by conflict and instability.
In reaction, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi accused Rwanda of having “expansionist ambitions” in eastern Congo, urging for international sanctions against Kigali. During the Munich Security Conference, he stated, “What’s needed is to blacklist the real culprit of this situation: Rwanda,” emphasizing the need for accountability and stronger intervention.
M23’s spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, defended the takeover stating it was necessary to “eliminate the threat at the source” posed by the Kavumu airport to civilians, indicating they faced minimal resistance from the local populace. This claim suggests the rebels ground their actions in a narrative of protection, despite the broader implications of their control.
Amidst these developments, the African Union (AU) will convene to discuss the ongoing crisis, though Tshisekedi will not participate as he focuses on countering M23 advances. Instead, Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka will represent Congo. The AU chair emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire, stating, “Military campaigns are not going to solve these problems,” indicating a collective call for peace and resolution in the region.
The M23 have already begun implementing administrative control in Goma, further solidifying their presence and influence in the area. As the conflict escalates, the potential for broader regional instability grows, highlighting the urgent necessity for diplomatic intervention and sustained international attention to the crisis.
The M23 rebels’ seizure of the Kavumu airport, followed by President Tshisekedi’s condemnation of Rwanda, highlights escalating tensions in eastern Congo. The African Union’s upcoming discussions aim to address the conflict, which has persisted despite temporary ceasefire attempts. The need for diplomatic solutions and international support is critical to stabilizing the region and mitigating further violence.
Original Source: www.dw.com
