Urgent: Ugandan Army Deploys to DRC Amid Rising Conflict Tensions

The Ugandan army has deployed troops to Mahagi town in northeastern DRC to fight local militias following civilian massacres by the Cooperative for the Development of Congo. Amidst rising tensions from armed groups like the M23, concerns grow about the potential for a wider conflict involving Uganda and Rwanda in the region.

The Ugandan army has confirmed its deployment of troops to Mahagi town in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to combat local armed groups amid concerns of escalating conflict. Felix Kulayigye, Uganda’s defense and military affairs spokesman, stated that the troops are now in control of the town, following a request from the Congolese army due to recent civilian massacres allegedly by the militia Cooperative for the Development of Congo (Codeco).

Mahagi, located in Ituri province bordering Uganda, has witnessed violence that left at least 51 individuals dead on February 10, attributed to armed groups associated with Codeco. This militia claims to protect the interests of the Lendu community against the Hema community. Uganda previously has a significant military presence in Ituri under an agreement with the Congolese government and is involved in efforts to counter the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels.

Additionally, Uganda’s prior assertion of control over Bunia, Ituri’s capital, highlights its ongoing military activities in the area. As tensions grow, concerns arise regarding another anti-government faction known as M23, which has recently gained control in nearby North and South Kivu provinces, leading to fears of a broader conflict.

This escalation follows a denial by the DRC army concerning the capture of 20 fighters tied to the Rwandan genocide, which they labeled as a fabricated incident. The DRC armed forces accused Rwanda of using this as a pretext to justify its interventions and support for the M23 insurgency, further complicating the security situation in eastern DRC.

Analysts express apprehension that the involvement of both Uganda and Rwanda in the DRC could escalate tensions and potentially lead to a recurrence of the devastating Second Congo War, which had far-reaching consequences for the region, including widespread mortality from conflict and humanitarian crises.

(In collaboration with AFP)

In summary, the Ugandan army’s recent deployment in northeastern DRC underscores escalating tensions due to violence perpetrated by local militias. The situation is further complicated by the M23’s territorial gains and Rwanda’s alleged involvement, which risks reigniting a broader conflict reminiscent of past wars in the region. Close monitoring and diplomatic engagement will be essential to prevent a humanitarian catastrophe.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr