African leaders at a summit in Tanzania called for an immediate ceasefire in the DRC, where the M23 armed group has captured significant territory, leading to thousands of deaths. The summit emphasized the need for military discussions on ceasefire terms and humanitarian assistance as violence escalates around Bakuvu. Concerns over a possible regional war have emerged, given the involvement of multiple nations sowing further instability.
A summit of African leaders convened to address the ongoing crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has demanded an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” within five days. The meeting took place in Tanzania and saw the participation of Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi, who attended virtually. The conflict has seen the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group capture significant territory in eastern DRC, resulting in substantial loss of life and widespread displacement.
In its final declaration, the summit called for military leaders from both nations to convene promptly to discuss the ceasefire and to establish humanitarian corridors for the evacuation of casualties. Despite the ongoing fighting near Bakuvu, the M23 has made advances into South Kivu after seizing Goma, signaling a troubling escalation in the region’s long-standing instability.
Local populations have expressed fear as the M23 approaches pivotal locations, including the town of Kavumu, essential for supplying Congolese troops. As concerns heighten, residents in Bukavu are reportedly boarding up shops and attempting to flee. The border with Rwanda has become congested with individuals seeking to escape the violence.
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk has raised alarming concerns, stating, “If nothing is done, the worst may be yet to come for the people of the eastern DRC but also beyond the country’s borders.” His report highlighted nearly 3,000 fatalities since the M23’s occupation of Goma and noted serious allegations of sexual violence.
The M23 has established governance in Goma, indicating its intention to advance towards the national capital, Kinshasa, despite the substantial distance. Concurrently, the Congolese army faces challenges, including inadequate training and corruption, leading to a series of retreats. The offensive has ignited fears of a regional conflict, with several nations, including South Africa and Burundi, offering military support to the DRC.
The summit’s call for an immediate ceasefire underscores the urgent need for action to halt the ongoing violence in the DRC, where the M23 group continues its territorial advances, causing widespread suffering and dislocation among civilians. With rising regional tensions and previous peace negotiations failing, the situation demands continued international attention and intervention to ensure the safety and stability of the region.
Original Source: www.kpvi.com
