Tension in Goma, DRC, has somewhat eased after intense clashes between government forces and rebels supported by Rwanda. Although gunfire is less frequent, uncertainties regarding control persist. The public resumes daily activities amid health concerns due to uncollected bodies, with thousands displaced as casualties mount, prompting regional and international calls for a ceasefire.
Calm has tentatively returned to Goma, a city in the Democratic Republic of Congo, following a week of intense conflict between government forces and rebels purportedly receiving support from Rwanda. While sporadic gunfire has subsided, the situation remains tense, with reports indicating rebel control of surrounding villages. People have begun venturing out, and normal traffic is resuming in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province.
Critical services are partially restored, with some water supply returning, though power outages continue. Many residents express relief as combat in the city appears to have ceased, despite slow business activities. The UN noted the ongoing tensions but acknowledged a calming environment compared to previous weeks as residents navigate health risks from uncollected bodies.
Control of Goma and its governmental institutions remains ambiguous, prompting Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi to declare that efforts against insurgents would continue, asserting that the Congolese army is prepared to defend the nation’s territory. The conflict dynamics are further complicated by accusations of external support for the rebel groups from both Rwanda and Uganda, leading to a volatile regional environment.
M23’s incursion last week resulted in significant territorial gains, prompting alarming civilian casualties and displacement, with reports indicating that up to 100 lives may have been lost. Thousands have fled to Rwanda, including UN and World Bank personnel, amplifying humanitarian concerns amidst the ongoing strife. The Rwandan government has reported casualties from cross-border fire, underscoring the complexities of the conflict.
The situation in Goma, Eastern DR Congo, has been exacerbated by longstanding tensions between armed groups, the Congolese government, and neighboring Rwanda, which has been accused of complicity in the conflict. The presence of the M23 rebel group has escalated violence in the region, resulting in numerous casualties and displacement of civilians. Regional leaders have continuously engaged in accusations against each other regarding support for various militant factions, and the dynamics remain precarious as international actors also troop into the situation, further complicating peace efforts.
In summary, Goma experiences a tentative calm following extensive conflict; however, tensions linger as control over the city remains uncertain. The Congolese government continues to mobilize against M23 rebels amid accusations of external support for both sides, resulting in a complex and alarming humanitarian situation. Despite partial restoration of services, major concerns regarding security, health risks, and civilian displacement loom as the regional conflict rages on.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr