Protesters in Kinshasa attacked multiple embassies, including those of France and the U.S., in response to the M23 rebel group’s offensive in eastern DRC. Authorities faced violent clashes amid calls for international accountability. The situation has drawn global attention, with numerous fatalities and a looming humanitarian crisis as the UN prepares to convene.
On Tuesday, demonstrators in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), targeted multiple embassies, including those of France, Belgium, Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and the United States. The protesters were expressing outrage over the M23 rebel group’s ongoing offensive in eastern DRC, which they believe is being supported by these nations. During the protests, smoke was seen rising from the French embassy after a fire broke out.
The violence was spurred by frustrations over what protesters termed international inaction regarding the conflict. Crowds accused the embassies of complicity in Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 rebels, a claim that the Rwandan government continues to deny. In response to the attacks, France’s foreign minister described the embassy attack as “unacceptable” and confirmed that assistance was provided to control the situation.
Police intervened to disperse the rioters, using tear gas as demonstrators ignited tires and clashed with law enforcement. Musalia Mudavadi, Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs in Kenya, articulated grave concerns over the attacks, emphasizing that such actions constitute a serious violation of international law. Patrick Muyaya, DRC’s Communications Minister, called for peaceful demonstrations and stated that authorities had regained control of the situation.
In related developments, the M23 rebel group has claimed control over Goma, a significant city in North Kivu province. Tragically, at least 17 United Nations peacekeepers have lost their lives amid the escalating fighting. The M23, comprised mainly of Tutsi fighters, asserts that it represents the interests of the minority Tutsi population in DRC.
International scrutiny continues as the UN Security Council anticipates a meeting to discuss the humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict. Experts and reports indicate a decrease in heavy fighting around Goma, though the region remains perilously unstable, with hospitals overwhelmed by casualties. The ongoing strife and deteriorating health conditions highlight the urgent need for international intervention and support in the region.
The protests in Kinshasa are rooted in longstanding tensions regarding the M23 rebel group’s violent actions in eastern DRC. The group, composed predominantly of Tutsi individuals, emerged in reaction to what they termed as systemic persecution of their community. Allegations against Rwanda include its purported backing of M23, a claim Rwanda denies. The situation has escalated into widespread conflict, drawing international attention and debate over the involvement of foreign nations in the region.
In summary, the protests against the embassies in Kinshasa reflect deep-seated frustrations over the violent conflict driven by the M23 rebel group and perceived international complicity. With rising fatalities among peacekeepers and worsening humanitarian conditions, the call for international intervention is more pressing than ever. The global community’s engagement will be crucial in addressing both the immediate violence and the underlying issues that fuel the conflict.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
