Protesters in Eastern DRC Demonstrate Against Rwanda and Rebel Negotiations

In Butembo, eastern DRC, hundreds protested against Rwandan support for M23 rebels and called for military support to address ongoing violence. Demonstrators emphasized their backing for the FARDC and opposed negotiations with rebels amid ongoing turmoil. Key figures in the protests, such as Frank Mukendi and Rose Kahavu, articulated their frustrations and demands for action against armed groups like the ADF.

Demonstrators in Butembo, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), took to the streets on Tuesday in a show of solidarity with the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) while expressing their vehement opposition to ongoing discussions between the DRC and Rwanda regarding the conflict in the region. As tensions rise, protesters voiced their frustrations against Rwanda, which is accused of backing the M23 rebel group. Frank Mukendi, a participant in the protests, asserted, “We stand behind them, we support them, and we call on them to launch offensives. From today, we intend to work with them to fight the enemy. Our regions are occupied, and that is why we are asking them to reject any order to withdraw without justification, especially politically motivated messages.” The protests coincided with negotiations in Luanda aimed at resolving the crisis. Muhindo Shafi, a civil society representative, criticized Rwanda’s claims regarding the presence of FDLR members in the DRC, stating, “That’s Rwanda’s daily argument, but I see it as a total distraction, which is why we keep asking our government to support our republican army for lasting peace.” Meanwhile, the protesters condemned the ongoing violence perpetrated by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in North Kivu, with Rose Kahavu stating, “We say enough is enough. Provide all necessary means to the FARDC so they can strike against the M23 and ADF rebels. Today, I am protesting to say no to negotiations.” Efforts to combat the violence have included operations involving both Congolese and Ugandan forces, yet the atmosphere remains fraught with insecurity. DRC President Félix Tshisekedi has emphasized the need for strengthened military cooperation with Uganda to tackle the persistent unrest in the area.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has faced prolonged instability due to various armed groups operating in the eastern region, including the M23 rebels and the ADF. Accusations of external support for these groups, particularly towards Rwanda, have further complicated the situation. Negotiations aimed at achieving peace have often been met with skepticism from local populations who have endured decades of conflict, leading to mass protests calling for government action and military support against these insurgencies.

In conclusion, the protests in Butembo highlight the deep-seated anger and concern among civilians in the DRC regarding foreign influence in their conflict and the ineffectiveness of current negotiation efforts. The demonstrators’ calls for military action reflect a desire for immediate intervention to restore security and peace to their communities. As discussions continue between DRC and Rwanda, the urgent need for a sustainable solution remains paramount.

Original Source: www.africanews.com