The UN warns about the risk of the DRC conflict spreading regionally, with human rights chief Turk indicating worsening conditions. The DRC and Rwanda are locked in a blame game over the violence surrounding Goma, with thousands killed and displaced. An urgent call for international action and a regional summit seeks to address the crisis and promote stability.
The United Nations has issued a warning regarding the potential regional spread of the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk voiced concerns during a Human Rights Council emergency meeting, stating that the “worst may be yet to come.” This message comes as the DRC and Rwanda engage in a blame game over the crisis, failing to acknowledge their roles.
The DRC has experienced significant upheaval since the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, took control of Goma last week. This conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and widespread displacement in an area known for its mineral wealth. Turk highlighted the urgent need for action to mitigate the violence not only in the DRC but also across regional borders.
The UN reported almost 3,000 fatalities and 2,880 injuries since the M23 began its assault on Goma on January 26, while stressing that actual casualty figures could be higher. DRC authorities have called for an investigation into human rights violations attributed to the M23 rebels, prompting a demand for international pressure on Rwanda to cease its alleged military support.
Patrick Muyaya, DRC’s Minister of Communication, emphasized the necessity for Rwanda to withdraw from Congolese territory urgently. Conversely, Rwanda’s UN ambassador James Ngango rejected accusations of his country’s involvement, citing fears of potential attacks on Rwanda. He urged caution, pointing to threats emerging from the current unrest.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame and DRC President Felix Tshisekedi will participate in a summit in Tanzania aimed at addressing and resolving the current crisis, as regional powers strive for a peaceful resolution.
The ongoing conflict in the DRC has roots in decades of instability in the eastern regions of the country, exacerbated by military interventions and rebel activities. The M23 rebel group has been prominent in escalating tensions, with alleged support from Rwanda. The UN’s involvement underscores the international community’s concern about the humanitarian ramifications and the possibility of conflict spillover into neighboring nations, which could destabilize the entire region. Goma, a DRC city with strategic importance due to its resources, has been a focal point of this violence. The current situation, involving accusations and counter-accusations between Rwanda and the DRC, highlights the fragility of peace in the area and the need for urgent intervention.
The warning from the UN serves as a critical alert of the escalating humanitarian crisis in the DRC, with potential ramifications for regional stability. The conflicting narratives between the DRC and Rwanda reveal deep-seated tensions that necessitate diplomatic intervention. The upcoming summit with regional leaders may offer a platform for dialogue and possible resolutions to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
