A rebel group in the DRC has declared a ceasefire after a week of deadly clashes that left hundreds dead. Their call for peace follows international accusations of Rwandan support for the rebels. The DRC military remains unconvinced about the truce’s legitimacy amid ongoing violence and humanitarian crises.
A rebel coalition known as the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), which includes the M23 group, has called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following a week of intense fighting that resulted in hundreds of casualties. The announcement, made on Monday, cites the humanitarian crisis caused by the DRC government as a reason for the truce, which is set to commence on Tuesday.
The DRC government has accused Rwanda of providing support to the M23 rebels, exacerbating tensions in the region. There is uncertainty regarding the Congolese military’s response to the ceasefire call, as previous attempts to establish truces have failed. General Sylvain Ekenge, the military spokesperson, deemed the rebel announcement insincere and a tactic aimed at influencing international opinion.
United Nations reports suggest that approximately 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan soldiers are aiding the M23 militants in the eastern DRC. President Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC has vowed a robust military response against the M23, which he described as a tool of Rwanda. Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed uncertainty regarding the presence of Rwandan forces in eastern DRC.
The conflict intensified as the rebels advanced towards Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. The hostilities have led to the deaths of more than a dozen foreign peacekeepers and resulted in significant civilian displacement. The latest UN figures report over 900 confirmed fatalities in Goma, with approximately 2,880 injuries requiring urgent medical attention due to overcrowded healthcare facilities.
The AFC has stated it does not seek to expand its control beyond Goma, specifically denying intentions to capture Bukavu or other locales. This statement marks a stark contrast to earlier aggressive posturing by the group. Spokesperson Victor Tesongo previously indicated plans to establish governance in Goma and expand to other territories, including the national capital, Kinshasa.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in conflict, particularly in the eastern region where various rebel groups, including the M23, operate with alleged foreign support. The humanitarian situation has worsened due to ongoing violence, prompting calls for ceasefires which often go unheeded. International dynamics, particularly Rwanda’s perceived involvement, complicate the conflict, undermining peace efforts.
The situation in the DRC remains dire as rebel factions escalate violence, prompting urgent humanitarian calls for peace. However, skepticism surrounds the sincerity of these ceasefire announcements, with historical precedents of non-compliance. The international community continues to monitor developments amid concerns for civilian safety and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
