Congo’s President Tshisekedi calls for youth to enlist in military against advancing M23 rebels backed by Rwanda. The rebels threaten key eastern territories like Goma and Bukavu, exacerbating regional tensions and humanitarian crises. A call for peace talks follows concerns over South African and Rwandan exchanges amid heightened conflict over mineral-rich lands. Analysts caution that the situation may devolve further without timely intervention.
GOMA, Congo (AP) — In response to the escalating conflict with M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, Congo’s President Félix Tshisekedi has called for massive enlistment of youth into the military. His declaration comes as the rebels intensify their territorial gains, threatening eastern Congo, including the critical city of Goma. Tshisekedi emphasized the need for a “vigorous and coordinated response” but remains open to peaceful dialogue with the rebels.
The M23 is reported to have received significant military support from Rwanda, numbering around 4,000 troops, significantly outnumbering their presence during their initial capture of Goma in 2012. The group is one among numerous armed factions competing for control in a region rich in minerals valued at approximately $24 trillion, essential for global technology supplies.
As the M23 rebels expand their reach towards Bukavu, panic ensues among residents, disrupting humanitarian efforts for over 6 million displaced individuals in eastern Congo. The Congolese military, previously supplemented by foreign contractors, is reportedly weakened due to a recent withdrawal of military support, diminishing its capacity to resist the advancing rebels.
The East African regional summit has called for an immediate ceasefire and encourages negotiations between the Congolese government and the M23. Tshisekedi’s absence at this summit raises concerns amid growing tensions, especially following accusations by South Africa against Rwanda’s military involvement in the conflict, which has resulted in fatalities among South African peacekeepers.
The M23’s movements are seen as indicative of a deeper struggle for control over Congo’s mineral wealth, compounded by ongoing ethnic tensions rooted in historical conflicts dating back to the 1994 Rwandan genocide. It raises concerns that, unlike previous encounters, a retreat for the M23 could become increasingly difficult due to Rwanda’s protracted support and heightened regional hostilities, as noted by experts from the Crisis Group.
The situation in eastern Congo is dire, characterized by increasing military mobilization calls from the government and a complex interplay of regional and ethnic conflicts. The involvement of Rwandan support for the M23 rebels complicates efforts for peace, as neighboring countries demand resolution while navigating the intricacies of historical tensions. If left unaddressed, this conflict poses a significant risk of regional escalation.
Original Source: apnews.com
