US Diplomat Urges Accountability for M23 Rebels in DRC Hospital Abductions

US Ambassador to the DRC, Lucy Tamlyn, condemned M23 rebels for kidnapping patients from hospitals and stressed the need for accountability regarding human rights violations. The UN reported over 130 abductions, while M23 denied the allegations. The conflict continues to displace thousands, with accusations against Rwanda for its support of M23.

The United States ambassador to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Lucy Tamlyn, has denounced the M23 rebels for their recent kidnappings of patients from hospitals in eastern Goma. She emphasized the necessity for the group to be held accountable for all human rights abuses committed in the region. “The recent kidnappings… 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 articulated on X.

A report from the United Nations indicated that M23 rebels had abducted more than 130 sick and injured individuals from local hospitals, falsely presenting themselves as members of the Congolese army or affiliated Wazalendo militias. The M23 rebels, however, refuted these claims, referring to them as a tactical deception designed to tarnish their image. In her response, Tamlyn asserted that the group’s denials lack credibility.

Tamlyn reiterated that M23 must be accountable for its actions and called for an immediate ceasefire, stressing the importance of respecting Congo’s sovereignty. Since December, the rebel group has intensified its military actions in eastern Congo, seizing control of significant locations, including the capitals of Goma and Bukavu. Following the fall of Bukavu, the provincial government relocated its administration to Uvira at the direction of President Felix Tshisekedi.

The conflict has resulted in the displacement of thousands of citizens, many of whom have fled to neighboring countries, as noted by the UN. There are ongoing accusations against Rwanda for supporting M23, although the Rwandan government denies such claims. M23 justifies its actions by stating it seeks to protect the rights of minority Congolese Tutsis, who they argue face discrimination due to their ethnic ties to the Tutsi community in Rwanda. In response to the situation, Germany has aligned with the US and UK in imposing financial sanctions against Rwanda.

In summary, the recent actions of the M23 rebels in eastern DRC have prompted strong condemnation from US Ambassador Lucy Tamlyn, who emphasizes the need for accountability for human rights violations. The situation remains critical, with significant geopolitical implications involving allegations against Rwanda. The international community’s response, including sanctions from Western nations, reflects ongoing concerns regarding stability and human rights in the region.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr