DR Congo President Felix Tshisekedi has returned from the World Economic Forum in Davos as conflict escalates at home. The M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, have made significant territorial gains and displaced over 400,000 people this year. The Congolese army claims to have repelled attacks on key towns, but fears of a broader regional war loom, prompting calls for respect for DR Congo’s sovereignty.
President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has abruptly curtailed his participation in the World Economic Forum in Davos amidst an escalating conflict in his home country. The renewed fighting in eastern DR Congo—particularly involving the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels—has resulted in significant territorial gains for the insurgents, creating a humanitarian crisis as over 400,000 individuals have been displaced since the beginning of the year.
Following increased hostilities, including the capture of towns such as Masisi and Minova in North Kivu, President Tshisekedi returned to DR Congo for crucial security consultations with senior officials. The M23 rebels’ advance towards the provincial capital of Goma poses a major risk, as the city, home to over one million inhabitants, is strategically important and was briefly occupied by the rebels during a previous conflict in 2012.
Recently, reports indicated that the M23 had taken control of the town of Sake, located just 20 kilometers from Goma, though the Congolese army has claimed to have successfully repelled the assault. As residents evacuate under desperate circumstances, many are fleeing with their belongings on their backs or attempting to escape in overcrowded boats. This ongoing conflict, driven by the M23’s territorial ambitions, has resulted in widespread displacement and a humanitarian crisis.
The M23, which has occupied significant portions of eastern DR Congo since 2021, is widely regarded as being supported by Rwanda—a claim that the Rwandan government neither affirms nor denies. In commentary regarding the situation, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has cautioned that the crisis could escalate into a more extensive regional war, calling for adherence to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DR Congo and an end to assistance for armed factions.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in conflict for decades, often fueled by the involvement of neighboring countries, particularly Rwanda. The M23, formed in 2012, has capitalized on local grievances and external support to pursue territorial control, particularly in resource-rich regions of eastern DR Congo. The humanitarian consequences of this conflict have been profound, displacing millions and provoking international concern over regional stability and security. The ongoing tensions highlight the fragility of peace efforts and the necessity for diplomatic intervention.
In summary, the deteriorating security situation in eastern DR Congo, compounded by the M23’s territorial expansion, necessitated President Tshisekedi’s return from Davos to address urgent domestic challenges. With a significant number of displaced individuals and concerns regarding regional destabilization stemming from foreign involvement, the UN and other actors emphasize the importance of respecting DR Congo’s sovereignty and ceasing support for armed groups. Continued attention to the situation is imperative to mitigate further humanitarian crises and violence.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
