US Ambassador Lucy Tamlyn condemned M23 rebels for abducting patients from hospitals in Goma, calling for accountability for human rights violations. The UN reports over 130 abductions, with M23 denying attacks. The conflict has forced thousands to flee, amid accusations linking Rwanda to M23.
The United States ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Lucy Tamlyn, has vocally condemned the M23 rebels for their recent attack on hospitals in eastern Goma city, where several patients were abducted. She emphasized that the group must face accountability for its violations of human rights. Tamlyn stated, “The recent kidnappings of patients from hospitals by the M23 once again demonstrate its disregard for peace in eastern DRC and its contempt for the people of this region. There is no excuse for these heinous acts.”
The UN reported that over 130 patients were taken by M23 rebels, who falsely identified themselves as Congolese army soldiers or members of a pro-government militia. In response to these claims, M23 denied the attacks, characterizing them as a “deliberate manipulation aimed at tarnishing our movement’s image.” However, Tamlyn dismissed their denials as lacking credibility, reiterating the need for accountability for all human rights violations.
Furthermore, she reaffirmed the position of the United States, which insists on an immediate ceasefire and respect for the sovereignty of the DRC. Since December, M23 has intensified its offensive in eastern Congo, capturing the provincial capitals of Goma and Bukavu; as a result, the local government has moved its operations to Uvira. This ongoing conflict has led to the displacement of thousands of citizens seeking refuge in neighboring areas and countries.
The DRC, along with other nations, has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, a claim which Rwanda firmly denies. M23 asserts that it defends the interests of minority Congolese Tutsis, alleging ethnic discrimination linked to their Tutsi heritage shared with Rwanda. In a related development, Germany has joined the United States and United Kingdom in imposing financial sanctions against Rwanda in connection to this crisis.
In summary, US Ambassador Lucy Tamlyn has condemned the M23 rebels for their egregious actions, particularly the abduction of patients from hospitals, asserting the necessity of accountability for their human rights violations. The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, exacerbated by regional dynamics and accusations against Rwanda, continues to displace thousands and destabilize the region. A coordinated international response, including sanctions and calls for a ceasefire, underscores the urgent need for resolution and peace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
