US Ambassador Calls for Accountability Over M23 Rebels’ Hospital Attacks

US Ambassador Lucy Tamlyn condemned M23 rebels for kidnapping patients in Goma, emphasizing accountability for human rights violations. The UN reported over 130 abductions, while M23 denied these allegations. The conflict has led to significant displacement and instability in the region, with accusations of Rwandan support for the group and financial sanctions imposed by multiple countries.

The United States Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lucy Tamlyn, has publicly condemned the M23 rebels for their egregious actions involving the kidnapping of patients from hospitals in Eastern Goma. She emphasized that the group must be held responsible for their repeated human rights violations. “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,” Tamlyn remarked on X social media platform.

A recent report from the United Nations indicated that M23 rebels abducted over 130 sick and injured men from local hospitals under the guise of being Congolese army soldiers or members of the pro-government Wazalendo militia. In response, the M23 rebels dismissed these accusations, labeling them as a “deliberate manipulation aimed at tarnishing our movement’s image.” However, Tamlyn countered their claims by asserting that such denials hold little credibility.

Tamlyn reiterated the United States position, stressing the need for accountability for human rights abuses committed by the M23. She also called for all involved parties to adhere to an immediate ceasefire and respect the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since December of last year, the M23 has intensified its offensive in Eastern Congo, successfully capturing provincial capitals like Goma and Bukavu. The fall of Bukavu has prompted the provincial government to move its administrative operations to Uvira, following directives from President Felix Tshisekedi.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant displacement, pushing thousands of citizens to flee to surrounding areas and neighboring countries, according to UN reports. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, along with other nations, has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23, accusations that Rwanda has firmly denied. The M23 alleges its actions are to safeguard the interests of minority Congolese Tutsis, claiming they are subjected to discrimination due to their ethnic ties to Rwanda’s Tutsi community. Recently, Germany joined the US and UK in imposing financial sanctions against Rwanda regarding the conflict.

In conclusion, Ambassador Lucy Tamlyn’s condemnation of the M23 rebels highlights the urgent need for accountability regarding their human rights violations. The recent kidnappings in Goma underscore a considerable disregard for peace in the region. Addressing the conflict requires collective efforts for a ceasefire and adherence to the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, while the international community’s response continues to evolve amid the ongoing crisis.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr