The DRC government has offered $5 million for the capture of M23 rebel leaders and $4 million for two exiled journalists. The military faces challenges against Rwandan-backed rebels controlling major eastern regions. Amidst ongoing violence and significant casualties, the DRC seeks U.S. support, urging companies to source minerals directly from them. Tensions escalate with mutual accusations between Rwanda and the DRC.
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has announced a reward of $5 million for information leading to the arrest of three leaders of the M23 rebel group, which has gained control over significant areas in eastern DRC this year. Corneille Nangaa, a former head of DRC’s electoral commission, currently leads the Congo River Alliance alongside M23 leaders Sultani Makenga and Bertrand Bisimwa. All three were sentenced to death for treason by a military court in absentia last year.
Additionally, the DRC government has offered a reward of $4 million for the capture of two exiled journalists and other individuals deemed accomplices. However, the likelihood of successful arrests remains low as the Congolese army has struggled against the Rwandan-backed rebels, who have taken substantial regions, including Goma and Bukavu.
The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with thousands killed and many others displaced from their homes. A United Nations report last year indicated that approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops were operating alongside the M23 in DRC, raising concerns about Rwandan intentions regarding DRC’s valuable mineral resources, including gold and coltan, critical for electronics manufacturing.
President Tshisekedi seeks U.S. support, proposing access to DRC’s mineral resources in exchange for military assistance against the M23 rebels. Presidential spokeswoman Tina Salama emphasized the need for U.S. companies to purchase minerals from the DRC instead of Rwanda, arguing the latter is plundering DRC’s resources. While Rwanda acknowledges its support for M23, it claims to be mitigating the conflict’s potential spread into its territory.
The allegations have escalated tensions, with Rwanda accusing the DRC of collaborating with an armed group linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Both M23 and the Rwandan government are under Tutsi leadership, while the DRC government refutes any ties with the FDLR group, characterized by Rwanda as a genocidal militia.
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s announcement of substantial bounties aimed at rebel leaders reflects the ongoing political and military turmoil in the region. With the DRC struggling against the M23 and dealing with international dynamics regarding its mineral wealth, the conflict reveals complex geopolitical entanglements involving neighboring Rwanda. Both nations continue to trade accusations, highlighting the urgent need for resolution and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.zimlive.com
