The Ugandan army has deployed troops to Mahagi, DR Congo, to combat militia violence following a request from the Congolese army. This comes amid fears of a broader conflict, particularly with the influence of Rwanda-backed groups like M23. The situation remains tense, as regional dynamics could lead to a repeat of the catastrophic Second Congo War.
The Ugandan army has confirmed the deployment of troops to Mahagi town in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) to combat local armed groups, heightening fears of an expanding conflict. Uganda’s defense spokesman, Felix Kulayigye, announced that the troops are now in control of the area.
This military intervention follows a request from the Congolese army in response to violent acts attributed to a militia called the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (Codeco), which has been linked to the massacre of over 50 civilians in February. Codeco claims to represent the Lendu community against the Hema community in the region.
Uganda has maintained a military presence in various areas of Ituri under an agreement with the Congolese government, focusing on the neutralization of armed groups like the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). Recently, Uganda announced securing Bunia, the provincial capital of Ituri.
In the broader context, Ituri is located near North and South Kivu, regions that have seen increased violence, especially from the M23 rebel group allegedly supported by Rwanda. This situation has aroused concerns regarding regional stability and the potential for wider conflict.
The Congolese army has refuted claims regarding the capture of fighters from the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR). They dismissed a video showing the handover of these fighters to Rwanda as falsified, accusing Rwanda of using these allegations to justify further military interventions in DR Congo.
There is significant apprehension among analysts that the involvement of Uganda and Rwanda in eastern DR Congo might lead to a resurgence of hostilities reminiscent of the Second Congo War, which resulted in vast casualties and suffering. The situation remains volatile, and regional dynamics are complex, necessitating careful monitoring.
The recent deployment of Ugandan troops to Mahagi aims to address the threats posed by local militias but raises alarms about escalating tensions in the region. With armed groups like Codeco and M23 gaining ground, and the implications of Rwandan involvement, the stability of northeastern DR Congo is precarious. The historical context of conflict in the area underscores the risk of widespread violence repeating past tragedies.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
