M23 rebels control Goma in eastern Congo and have declared a ceasefire for humanitarian reasons. Despite their claims to protect civilians, they are simultaneously advancing toward Bukavu and Kinshasa. The recent conflict has resulted in significant casualties and displacement of individuals in the region, raising concerns over stability and humanitarian needs.
The Rwanda-backed M23 rebels who recently gained control of Goma, a significant city in eastern Congo, have declared a unilateral ceasefire for humanitarian reasons. Despite this declaration, there are no indications that they intend to relinquish their hold over Goma, which is located in a resource-rich area where trillions of dollars in minerals are present.
Reports indicate that recent clashes between M23 rebel forces and Congolese troops resulted in the deaths of at least 900 individuals. While the rebels announced their commitment to protect civilians, they are also advancing toward another provincial capital, Bukavu, and have aspirations to march onwards to the Congolese capital, Kinshasa.
M23’s spokesperson, Lawrence Kanyuka, emphasized their commitment to civilian protection, asserting, “It must be made clear that we have no intention of capturing Bukavu or other areas.” The rebel group is supported by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, significantly more than in 2012.
The latest conflict has displaced many individuals, forcing them to flee and seek refuge in nearby Rwanda, despite Rwanda’s denial of any support for M23. The fighting stems from a protracted ethnic conflict that dates back decades, with M23 claiming to defend ethnic Tutsis in Congo against threats from Hutu militias.
Families in Goma have been devastated by the violence, with many searching for their loved ones in morgues. One grieving mother recounted, “A muzalendo shot him in the back (and) it went out of his chest,” while another shared her anguish over the loss of her son, expressing despair over the situation.
The tumult has renewed fears regarding the fragile humanitarian situation in the region amid the ongoing ethnic conflict and violence that persists in eastern Congo.
The M23 rebel group’s resurgence in eastern Congo has rekindled fears of instability as they assert control over key urban centers and threaten further advancements. The conflict involves historical tensions between Tutsis and Hutus, exacerbated by Rwanda’s alleged military involvement and support for the M23 rebels.
In conclusion, the M23 rebels have declared a ceasefire while maintaining control over Goma, amid ongoing violence and significant casualties. As hundreds of thousands flee the conflict, regional tensions remain high due to ethnic divisions and external influences. The humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo continues to unfold, reflecting the complexity and severity of the situation.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
