Tensions escalate in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo as M23 forces advance, prompting Burundi to warn Rwanda of potential military responses. The Congolese government seeks urgent discussions with regional communities amidst renewed violence and humanitarian crises. Burundi has deployed troops to assist DRC against M23, expressing fears of a wider regional war if conflict persists.
The situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) escalated on Wednesday as M23 fighters and Rwandan troops advanced, prompting warnings from Burundi about potential military responses. M23, an armed group that resurfaced in 2021, captured two strategic towns, Ihusi and Kalehe, located about 60 kilometers from Bukavu, the provincial capital of South Kivu. Local residents noted a significant presence of fighters in Kalehe, moving silently through the area.
In response to the worsening conflict, the Congolese government called for an emergency meeting of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) to address recent aggressions and discussed potential sanctions. A recent summit in Tanzania had led to a temporary lull in fighting, but clashes reignited as M23 continued its operations close to key infrastructure, including the Kavumu airport.
Despite Rwanda’s denial of aiding the M23, tensions have increased between Kinshasa and Kigali. This strain affected RwandAir’s operations as DR Congo closed its airspace to Rwandan-registered flights, forcing re-routing. Meanwhile, Burundi reinforced its support for the DRC government by dispatching around 10,000 troops to aid against M23 forces in South Kivu.
President Evariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi described Rwanda as a “bad neighbour” and warned of a potential military response, stating, “The one that is going to attack us, we will ourselves attack.” Ndayishimiye also expressed concerns that the ongoing unrest could spark a broader regional war. In Goma, displacement camps emptied after M23’s orders for residents to vacate their premises, emphasizing the humanitarian aspect of the conflict.
In Goma, discussions took place between Congolese religious leaders and Corneille Nangaa, the head of the River Congo Alliance, which includes the M23. Despite the focus on dialogue, the Congolese government has so far rejected direct negotiations with the armed group, seeking instead to prioritize peace through alternate avenues, with President Felix Tshisekedi supporting talks centered on resolution.
The conflict in eastern DRC highlights a complicated situation involving multiple parties, including M23, the Congolese government, Burundi, and Rwanda. The escalating violence and humanitarian crises emphasize the need for dialogue and strategic military responses to prevent regional instability. Burundi’s stance indicates a willingness to respond militarily if provoked, raising concerns about an intensifying conflict that could affect more than just the DRC.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
