President Tshisekedi cut his Davos trip short as fighting escalates in DR Congo, with M23 rebels advancing and displacing over 400,000 people. Goma, a critical city near Rwanda, is under threat. UN Secretary-General warns of potential regional conflict, calling for respect for DR Congo’s sovereignty.
President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has abruptly concluded his participation in the World Economic Forum in Davos amidst escalating violence in his home country. Armed conflict has surged in eastern Congo since the beginning of 2023, particularly with the Rwandan-supported M23 rebels expanding their territorial control. The United Nations reports that over 400,000 individuals have been displaced due to the intensifying hostilities, particularly around the provincial capital of Goma.
Following recent developments, President Tshisekedi returned from Switzerland to convene urgent security discussions with key governmental officials. In recent weeks, M23 rebels have successfully captured towns such as Masisi and Minova in North Kivu, heightening fears regarding the potential fall of Goma—a city crucial due to its proximity to the Rwandan border. Previously, M23 momentarily seized Goma during a rebellion in 2012 but retreated following international mediation.
The situation worsened after M23 forces reportedly captured the town of Sake, located 20 kilometers from Goma. Local reports indicated that the Congolese army repelled an attack on Sake, although many residents, already displaced due to ongoing conflict, are fleeing with makeshift belongings. The M23 has established control over significant areas of mineral-rich eastern DR Congo since 2021, leading to widespread displacement.
The recurrent threat of M23 advancing towards Goma raises concerns reminiscent of last year, which saw a temporary lull in fighting around July. However, intense clashes resumed in October, escalating into the present. Both the Democratic Republic of Congo and the United Nations have accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels, although the Rwandan government does not confirm these allegations.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized that the current conflict poses risks of evolving into a broader regional war, stressing the need for all parties to honor the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of Congo and cease any support for armed factions.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is experiencing severe unrest, particularly in its eastern regions where the M23 rebel group, allegedly supported by Rwanda, has been expanding its control since 2021. This surge in violence has resulted in significant displacement of civilians, with many fleeing to escape the fighting. The city’s proximity to the Rwandan border adds a layer of complexity to the conflict, prompting international attention and concern about regional stability.
The urgent return of President Tshisekedi from Davos reflects the escalating crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo as M23 rebels continue to advance, threatening the provincial capital of Goma. With over 400,000 displacements reported and fears of broader regional conflict, international calls for peace and respect for sovereignty become increasingly critical. The ongoing situation necessitates immediate attention from global and regional stakeholders to avert further humanitarian crises.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
