The Democratic Republic of the Congo’s President Felix Tshisekedi announced a strong military response to advance by Rwandan-backed M23 fighters, who have captured Goma. He criticized the international community’s ineffectiveness in addressing escalating violence, which threatens regional stability. M23’s actions have prompted emergency discussions among regional entities and calls for direct engagement. The Southern African Development Community plans a special summit to address the crisis, while Angola urges for an urgent meeting between DRC and Rwandan leaders.
President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has pledged a “vigorous” military response to Rwandan-backed fighters advancing in the eastern region of the country, especially following the recent capture of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. This significant escalation comes amidst a protracted struggle involving various armed groups that have long plagued eastern DRC.
The M23, or March 23 Movement, has made substantial territorial gains, raising alarm across the African continent and prompting calls for emergency discussions from regional groups. International entities including the United Nations and the European Union have urged an immediate cessation of hostilities in the area.
In his speech, President Tshisekedi criticized the global community for its inaction, labeling it an “affront” given the escalating violence that threatens peace in the wider Great Lakes region. He emphasized that a coordinated military response to the M23 rebels is imminent.
Despite escalating tensions, President Tshisekedi opted not to engage in crisis discussions with Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Following a recent virtual summit, the East African Community advocated for a peaceful resolution while encouraging dialogue between DRC authorities and all involved parties, including M23.
In a statement, President Kagame informed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa that Rwanda was ill-equipped to assume mediating responsibilities in the current situation. The region has witnessed casualties, including the deaths of thirteen South African soldiers deployed as part of a United Nations peacekeeping mission.
The Southern African Development Community, consisting of sixteen nations, is scheduled to convene a special summit in Zimbabwe to address the unfolding crisis. Angola, which has historically mediated between the DRC and M23, has called for an urgent meeting between Congolese and Rwandan leaders in Luanda, Angola’s capital.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has been experiencing persistent conflict largely driven by various armed groups, including M23. The last three decades have been marked by instability in eastern DRC, exacerbated by external influences and internal power struggles. The ongoing violence has significant implications for regional security, prompting international responses and interventions. The M23 insurgency, notably supported by Rwanda, represents a substantial threat to the DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. As armed conflict escalates, the potential for broader regional destabilization increases, drawing attention from global powers and regional organizations alike.
In summary, President Tshisekedi’s declaration of a robust military response reflects the urgent need to address the advances of Rwandan-backed M23 fighters in eastern DRC. The international community’s inaction has been criticized amid rising tensions that threaten not only DRC but also the stability of the Great Lakes region. The situation necessitates immediate and concerted efforts to facilitate dialogue and restore peace, with calls from various regional and international bodies for cooperative engagements and resolutions.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
