Democratic Republic of Congo’s President Félix Tshisekedi has declined to participate in regional peace talks regarding the escalating conflict in Goma, where the M23 rebel group is gaining ground. With ongoing violence resulting in numerous casualties, tensions are high, and public protests have targeted foreign embassies. Humanitarian conditions are deteriorating, prompting urgent calls for international intervention.
President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has opted not to participate in regionally mediated discussions intended to resolve the crisis in Goma, as reported by state media. These talks were convened by Kenyan President William Ruto in response to ongoing violence, which has left casualties in the streets of Goma following fierce fighting.
The M23 rebel group has made significant territorial gains in Goma, including seizing the city’s airport. Accusations against neighboring Rwanda for providing support to the M23 group persist, despite Rwanda’s denials regarding direct military assistance. While President Kagame’s participation in the summit remains uncertain, he recently endorsed a ceasefire after discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
On Wednesday, Goma experienced a tense atmosphere marked by sporadic gunfire, with residents cautiously emerging from hiding to procure increasingly scarce provisions. The Congolese news agency confirmed that President Tshisekedi will forgo the East African Community summit, but the reasoning behind his absence has not been disclosed.
The recent escalation in violence has overwhelmed local hospitals and left dead bodies visible in the streets, according to the United Nations. Aid agencies reported rampant looting of warehouses containing essential food and medical supplies, further complicating humanitarian efforts as critical services such as electricity and water have been disrupted.
Public outrage over the rebel incursion has incited protests targeting foreign embassies in the capital of Kinshasa, with demonstrators vandalizing and looting at least ten diplomatic missions. They are calling upon the international community to intervene and halt the advancing rebel forces in Goma, which are tightening their control over the city.
The current crisis in Goma, located in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has escalated due to the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, which has been historically linked to conflict in the region. Goma’s strategic significance, due to its proximity to the Rwandan border and resources, has led to heightened tensions, particularly with allegations that Rwanda is providing support to these rebels. This ongoing conflict has resulted in significant humanitarian concerns, including displacement, scarcity of resources, and widespread violence, prompting urgent calls for international intervention and peace discussions.
In summary, President Tshisekedi’s refusal to attend regional peace talks during a critical period in Goma reflects the increasing complexity of the situation, characterized by persistent violence and accusations of external support for rebels. Humanitarian conditions continue to deteriorate, fuelled by local anger and protests against perceived foreign interference. The international community faces mounting pressure to address the escalating crisis and provide necessary aid to the affected populations in Goma.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
