Fighting has escalated in eastern DRC, particularly involving M23 rebels attacking the Congolese military. The region, already in chaos with ongoing humanitarian crises, faces fresh calls for ceasefire even as violence continues. International diplomatic efforts remain unresolved amidst accusations against Rwanda and internal conflict from various militia groups.
Recent violence has erupted in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), shortly after African leaders urged for a ceasefire. On Tuesday, M23 rebels attacked Congolese army positions in South Kivu province. The DRC’s government categorizes the M23 group as terrorist, while the UN and US designate it as an armed rebel organization. Accusations persist that Rwanda supports the M23, a claim that Rwanda denies.
The M23 rebellion follows an earlier call by regional leaders for an “unconditional” ceasefire plan to be proposed by Thursday. This conflict has resulted in numerous casualties and widespread displacement. Since resuming attacks in late 2021, M23 has quickly gained control of territories in eastern DRC, including Goma, the capital of North Kivu province.
On Tuesday, clashes occurred near Ihusi village, located about 70 kilometers from Bukavu, with reports of heavy weaponry detonations. Local panic intensified as schools and businesses shuttered in preparation for potential M23 attacks, including an impending offensive on Bukavu.
The M23’s capture of Bukavu would consolidate its power over Lake Kivu and potentially enhance cooperation with Rwandan troops. Meanwhile, almost 300 Congolese soldiers face military court proceedings for various crimes, including serious allegations of murder and rape.
While the M23 claims its mission is to liberate the entire DRC, it has faced opposition from Burundian forces, which are present to bolster the Congolese army. Approximately 10,000 Burundian soldiers are stationed in South Kivu, providing critical support against M23 advances.
In Goma, the group has implemented its administration and initiated recruitment efforts for community services like a police force. However, the humanitarian situation is dire, with deteriorating access to clean water and a rise in cholera cases among displaced individuals.
A regional focus on the DRC crisis will occur at an African Union meeting in Addis Ababa on Friday, amid rising international calls for conflict de-escalation. Diplomatic efforts have yet to yield results despite the ongoing turmoil.
The DRC government has requested targeted sanctions against Rwanda, asserting that its neighbor desires to exploit DRC’s rich natural resources. Conversely, Rwanda insists its military intervention aims to eliminate threats from groups like the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR). Additionally, violence by the Lendu militia in Ituri province has resulted in 51 fatalities among displaced communities, illustrating the ongoing instability affecting the region.
The resurgence of fighting in eastern DRC, particularly involving the M23 group, highlights the complexity of the ongoing conflict. Despite calls for peace, military actions continue, exacerbating the humanitarian situation. Regional dynamics, including accusations against Rwanda, further complicate resolution efforts as the humanitarian crisis deepens. With diplomatic negotiations stalled, the prospect for stability remains tenuous as violence persists across the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
