UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed grave concerns regarding the escalating violence in the DRC, particularly due to M23 attacks in eastern regions. He reiterated the importance of maintaining the DRC’s territorial integrity while cautioning against a wider regional conflict. M23 has taken control of key locations such as Kavumu airport, raising alarms among international bodies about the potential for greater regional instability.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has raised alarms regarding the escalating violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to attacks by M23 forces in eastern DRC. Speaking at an African Union summit in Addis Ababa, he emphasized the necessity of protecting the DRC’s “territorial integrity” and warned against a potential regional escalation of conflict, urging that such escalation must be avoided at all costs.
The situation has intensified, with M23 rebels claiming control over Kavumu airport, crucial for Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. Guterres stated, “The fighting that is raging in South Kivu – as a result of the continuation of the M23 offensive – threatens to push the entire region over the precipice.” Reports indicate explosions in Bukavu, leading to casualties amid the ongoing violence.
Criticism has mounted against the African Union for its apparent lack of decisive action amidst the escalating unrest. Local reports indicate that M23 forces are positioning themselves within Bukavu, with commanders expressing intentions to secure the region. Control over South and North Kivu, rich in mineral resources, could significantly shift power dynamics in the region.
While Rwanda denies supporting M23 fighters, accusations persist about its military involvement. Meanwhile, outgoing AU chair Moussa Faki Mahamat called for a strict adherence to the ceasefire, highlighting a “general mobilization” among African nations to curb the conflict. Notably, leaders from Rwanda and the DRC were absent from the AU meeting.
At the Munich Security Conference, President Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC advocated for international action against Rwanda, urging nations to “blacklist” the country for its territorial ambitions. The European Union has noted its deep concern regarding the incursions by the Rwandan-backed M23 and is contemplating various responses to address the violations of the DRC’s sovereignty. Moreover, a call from the European Parliament has emerged to suspend a minerals deal with Rwanda pending an investigation into its involvement in the conflict.
The conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reached a critical point, as M23 forces gain control of strategic areas. With Guterres emphasizing the need for regional stability, the global community is called to respond to the hostilities perpetrated by the Rwandan-backed group. Criticisms of the African Union’s hesitance reflect the urgency for decisive action to preserve peace and territorial integrity in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
