Anxiety mounts in Kinshasa, DRC, as M23 rebels advance, with limited resistance from the army. President Tshisekedi’s claims of control face skepticism, prompting fears of an impending coup. Citizens and officials express urgency for evacuations as tensions escalate in the eastern DRC conflict. International criticism of lack of support for Tshisekedi’s administration grows amidst ongoing instability.
In Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), anxiety is escalating due to the limited military resistance against the advancing M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda. President Felix Tshisekedi’s office claims the city remains under army control, causing skepticism among residents who perceive a growing threat. Many in Kinshasa express concerns over potential instability, considering relocating abroad amidst fears of a coup.
Residents are observing an alarming situation as the M23 group moves deeper into eastern DRC. A military general criticized the president’s statements, emphasizing a disconnect from on-ground realities. Panic is evident with embassies using armored vehicles for safety, while numerous government officials are arranging evacuations for their families. Citizens who once believed in the security of cities like Goma acknowledge their unexpected fall to the rebels.
Tensions intensify as Justice Minister Constant Mutamba assures on social media that the Congolese populace will not tolerate a coup involving the Rwandan army. Internal anxiety is surfacing, with government officials recognizing an urgency among civilians seeking safety through foreign embassies. The current M23 offensive represents the most severe escalation in an ongoing conflict, deeply rooted in historic tensions and struggles for mineral control.
Rwanda continues to deny allegations of aiding M23, countering claims of protecting itself from Hutu militias. As diplomatic solutions stall due to Tshisekedi’s refusal to negotiate, his administration criticizes the international community for inadequate support against Rwanda. Some consider Tshisekedi’s disdain for dialogue with M23 justified, citing their ties to Rwanda and faulting Western inaction amid the conflict.
The president’s absence from two significant African summits raises eyebrows among Congolese leaders. Instead, Tshisekedi participated in a security conference in Europe, which locals deem unwise amidst pressing regional issues. Observers within Congo’s political landscape interpret this choice as indicative of his disconnect from African unity and governance.
While opposition voices grow louder, questioning Tshisekedi’s legitimacy, it remains uncertain who could effectively challenge his authority. Analysts express concern over his capacity to manage an increasingly precarious security situation, particularly following the strategic losses of Goma and Bukavu.
The escalation of the M23 rebels in eastern DRC has triggered significant anxiety in the capital, Kinshasa. Residents question the government’s response and contemplate evacuation amid fears of a coup. As regional tensions heighten, criticisms of President Tshisekedi’s leadership and decisions are growing, yet the lack of a viable opposition raises concerns about the future stability of the DRC.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
