António Guterres has raised alarms over the M23 rebel group’s advance toward Goma, resulting in over 178,000 people displaced in the last two weeks. Guterres has urged the group to halt its offensive due to its devastating impact on civilians and the risk of regional conflict. The ongoing violence has led to significant panic and casualties, deepening the humanitarian crisis in the region.
António Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, has expressed deep concern regarding the M23 rebel group advancing towards Goma, the largest city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This insurgency has resulted in the displacement of over 178,000 individuals within the last two weeks. Guterres emphasizes the urgent need for M23 to halt its offensive, noting its detrimental impact on civilians and the escalating risk of regional conflict.
M23’s rapid advancement has included significant territorial gains, surrounding Goma while engaging in fierce combat with the Congolese army. Recently, the rebels successfully captured Minova, a key trade hub, followed by Sake, further heightening fears among local residents. The situation has become increasingly chaotic, with civilian casualties reported and hospitals overwhelmed with the wounded.
The advance of M23 has instigated panic as explosions resound in the outskirts of Goma, prompting thousands to flee their homes. Many have sought refuge across Lake Kivu, bringing their limited belongings. Survivors recount harrowing experiences, such as Neema Matondo describing witnessing devastation and losing fellow villagers to the violence.
The ongoing conflict in the DRC has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis, with over six million lives lost and seven million people internally displaced since 1998. M23, comprised primarily of former Tutsi soldiers, continues to be one of many armed factions fighting in this resource-rich region. The group reportedly generates substantial revenue from mining operations while facing accusations of support from neighboring Rwanda.
Rwanda’s government has historically denied backing M23, yet admissions of deploying troops to protect its borders suggest otherwise. Recent UN findings indicated as many as 4,000 Rwandan forces collaborating with M23, raising concerns about accountability. Guterres continues to insist that all parties must respect the sovereignty of the DRC and cease all forms of assistance to armed groups.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been entrenched in conflict for decades, with armed groups vying for control over the country’s vast natural resources. M23, which arose from previous conflicts, has gained notoriety as a significant player in this violence, especially in the eastern regions rich in minerals such as coltan. As tensions escalate, the humanitarian impact on the civilian population has grown increasingly dire, prompting international attention and calls for a halt to hostilities.
In conclusion, António Guterres has called for an immediate cessation of the M23 offensive in eastern DRC amid rising violence and a significant humanitarian crisis. The displacement of hundreds of thousands underscores the urgency of diplomatic interventions to stabilize the region. As accusations of foreign support continue to emerge, it remains critical for all parties to respect DRC’s sovereignty and work towards a peaceful resolution.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
