Renewed Hostilities Erupt in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

Fighting has resumed in eastern DRC as M23 rebels attack government positions shortly after a ceasefire call from African leaders. The DRC government considers M23 a terrorist group, accusing Rwanda of support, which Rwanda denies. Humanitarian conditions deteriorate, and discussions on the crisis are set for an upcoming African Union meeting.

Fighting has erupted in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following a brief pause in conflict and a call for a ceasefire from African leaders. Sources indicate that M23 fighters initiated attacks on Congolese army positions in South Kivu province at dawn. The DRC government classifies the M23 rebel group as a terrorist organization, while international parties regard it as an armed rebel group. The DRC has accused Rwanda of backing the M23, an assertion that Rwanda refutes.

This escalation follows a directive from leaders in the region to formulate a plan for an “unconditional” ceasefire by Thursday. Thousands have died, and many more have been displaced in this prolonged struggle. Since re-arming in late 2021, the M23 has swiftly reclaimed significant areas, particularly in mineral-rich eastern DRC. The armed group, having taken Goma at the end of last month, has continued to advance into South Kivu.

Recent clashes have been reported near Ihusi village, which is approximately 70 kilometers from Bukavu, the provincial capital. Security sources noted the use of heavy weaponry in these confrontations. Kavumu airport serves as a crucial transport point for Congolese military reinforcements and is strategically located near Bukavu.

In anticipation of an M23 offensive, residents in Bukavu have begun fleeing, and local businesses, including schools and banks, shut down over security concerns. Should the M23 capture Bukavu, they would gain control over Lake Kivu alongside Rwandan forces. Approximately 300 Congolese soldiers currently face trial for serious crimes, further complicating the situation.

The M23 claims an aim to “liberate all of Congo” and has made recent efforts to cut off supply lines to the DRC army, although Burundian troops assisting the Congolese army have intervened effectively. Around 10,000 Burundian soldiers are deployed in South Kivu, with additional battalions sent for support.

The M23 is also establishing administrative presence in Goma, with initiatives to recruit for an organized police force. Meanwhile, the humanitarian conditions in Goma are deteriorating, lacking access to clean water, leading inhabitants to resort to Lake Kivu for their needs. Health concerns are rising, especially with an increase in cholera cases among displaced populations.

Discussions around the DRC crisis are scheduled for an African Union meeting in Addis Ababa, which has become increasingly urgent due to fears of escalating regional conflict. Although the international community has called for de-escalation, previous diplomatic resolutions have had limited success.

The DRC has sought “targeted sanctions” against Rwanda, claiming that Kigali aims to exploit the country’s natural resources. Rwanda maintains that its interventions are aimed at eliminating armed groups that threaten its security. Adding to the unrest in the region, an attack by the Lendu militia in Ituri province resulted in the deaths of 51 individuals, predominantly among displaced communities, underscoring the extensive turmoil afflicting the DRC for over three decades.

The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo continues to escalate, marked by renewed combat between M23 fighters and the Congolese army. This situation, fueled by regional tensions and accusations against Rwanda, raises significant humanitarian concerns. Various armed groups, including local militias, contribute to the instability, causing widespread displacement and suffering. Diplomatic efforts remain crucial in addressing this long-standing conflict, yet effective solutions have not yet been achieved.

Original Source: www.voanews.com