The U.N. human rights chief has accused Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in eastern Congo of committing serious violations, including the killing of children and assaults on hospitals. The conflict has escalated with recent territorial gains by the rebels, leading to calls for the withdrawal of Rwandan troops and contributing to a significant humanitarian crisis affecting millions.
The U.N. human rights chief, Volker Türk, has accused Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in eastern Congo of killing children and attacking hospitals. After entering Bukavu, the city of 1.3 million, last week, reports confirmed incidents of summary executions involving children. Türk’s statement highlighted that some children among the rebels were found in possession of weapons, underlining ongoing concerns regarding child recruitment.
M23 recently captured Bukavu, following their seizure of Goma about 63 miles to the north. This conflict has claimed at least 3,000 lives and displaced thousands. The M23, one of many armed factions battling for eastern Congo’s mineral wealth, is allegedly supported by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops.
Rwanda accuses the Congolese government of recruiting Hutu fighters linked to the 1994 genocide, while M23 claims to be defending Tutsis and Rwandan-origin Congolese. Critics argue that M23’s narrative serves as a cover for advancing Rwandan interests, especially as their ambitions for political power seem to sharpen.
The U.K. Foreign Office condemned the recent gains of the M23 rebels, asserting that these moves violate the Democratic Republic of Congo’s sovereignty. In a formal statement, they called on Rwanda to withdraw its troops immediately from Congolese territory. This ongoing conflict has resulted in the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, with more than 6 million displaced.
In neighboring developments, the newly appointed governor of North Kivu announced the reopening of the ferry route connecting Goma and Bukavu. This ferry service currently represents the only secure means for travel between these cities. Also, Ugandan troops have entered the northeastern city of Bunia to assist Congolese forces in containing escalating violence.
The U.N. human rights chief has implicated Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in serious human rights violations in eastern Congo, highlighting incidents involving child soldiers and attacks on medical facilities. The ongoing conflict is deeply intertwined with political aspirations and regional dynamics, with significant humanitarian ramifications. The U.K. has condemned the violations of sovereignty while regional forces, including Uganda, respond to the unfolding crisis.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
