Congolese rebels have asserted their control over Goma, prompting clashes that resulted in the death of 13 peacekeepers. The M23 group’s actions, combined with accusations of Rwandan support, have escalated the conflict, leading to significant civilian displacement. In response, the DRC has severed ties with Rwanda and intensified military efforts, urging international focus on the region.
In recent developments, Congolese rebel forces have declared that they have seized control of the strategic city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The leader of the M23 rebel alliance issued an ultimatum for government troops to surrender their weapons by 3 AM. This escalation follows violent clashes that resulted in the deaths of 13 peacekeepers, as recorded by United Nations officials.
As the M23 group, alongside Rwandan forces, penetrated the Munigi quarter near Goma, panic ensued among civilians, leading to significant displacement. Bintu Keita, the UN’s special representative in the DRC, confirmed that the airport in Goma is currently non-operational. Goma hosts a population of approximately two million and serves as a vital hub for humanitarian and security operations.
The M23 group, largely composed of ethnic Tutsis, has been involved in the DRC’s conflicts for over a decade, contributing to the proliferation of around 100 armed factions in the mineral-rich region. The ongoing violence has led to one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises, with widespread displacement and casualties.
The DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 insurgency, resulting in severed diplomatic relations between the two nations. Despite Rwanda’s denials, it had previously acknowledged the presence of its military in eastern Congo for security reasons amidst rising Congolese military deployments near the border. Congolese military sources emphasized their determination in the conflict, urging the populace to remain calm despite the ongoing warfare.
In response to the escalating violence, the DRC recalled diplomats from Rwanda and urged the cessation of Rwandan diplomatic activities in Kinshasa. A UN Security Council meeting aimed at addressing the crisis was expedited to Sunday, where France and the UK urged Rwanda to withdraw its troops and cease attacks on peacekeepers.
With escalating tensions, a Congolese military governor was killed amid ongoing hostilities on Friday. The Congolese army reported foiling an M23 advance toward Goma with the cooperation of UN troops and allied forces from the Southern African Development Community (SAMIDRC). Meanwhile, recent surges in violence have resulted in casualties within the peacekeeping forces, including nine fatalities among South African personnel.
The conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has persisted for decades, driven by competition over land and natural resources among numerous armed groups. Among these groups, the M23 has gained notoriety for its military activities and for being predominantly composed of ethnic Tutsis. The situation has been exacerbated by regional tensions, particularly with Rwanda, which has been accused of supporting the M23. Humanitarian crises arise from these protracted conflicts, leading to immense suffering and displacement.
In conclusion, the situation in Goma reflects deeper regional tensions and ongoing humanitarian challenges. With Congolese rebels claiming control of the city and increasing casualties among peacekeepers, the international community faces urgent calls for intervention. Diplomatic efforts, particularly concerning Rwanda’s involvement, remain critical in addressing and potentially de-escalating the conflict in the DRC.
Original Source: www.moreradio.online
