President Felix Tshisekedi has cut short his Davos trip as fighting escalates in the Democratic Republic of Congo due to advances by M23 rebels, resulting in over 400,000 displaced people. The escalating conflict raises fears over the potential capture of Goma, while the United Nations warns of risks of a broader regional war.
The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Felix Tshisekedi, has abbreviated his participation at the World Economic Forum in Davos to address the escalating conflict within his country. The situation has worsened in the eastern region, primarily due to increased territorial gains by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, resulting in the displacement of over 400,000 individuals since the year’s commencement. President Tshisekedi returned to DRC for crucial security discussions with government officials.
Recently, the M23 rebels have succeeded in capturing significant towns, including Masisi and Minova in North Kivu, raising fears regarding the province’s capital, Goma. The capture of Goma, a populous city near Rwanda, would mark a substantial success for the rebels, reminiscent of their temporary takeover during a prior uprising in 2012. On Thursday, reports indicated the rebels had taken the town of Sake, located just 20 kilometers from Goma.
Amid the turmoil, residents in Sake and surrounding areas, many already displaced, have fled in fear, carrying their belongings as they seek refuge. The M23 has been steadily expanding its control over eastern DRC, rich in minerals, since 2021, displacing countless individuals in the process. Despite a brief lull in fighting, hostilities resumed with increased intensity toward the end of last year.
The DRC and the United Nations assert that Rwanda is providing support to the M23; however, Rwandan officials neither confirm nor deny these allegations. On Friday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern that the ongoing conflict could escalate into a wider regional war and urged all parties to acknowledge the DRC’s sovereignty. He called for an end to all forms of support for armed groups operating in the region.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has faced prolonged conflict, particularly in its eastern regions, where various rebel groups vie for control, often fueled by external influences such as neighboring Rwanda. The M23 rebels, who have historically sought to capture territories within DRC, reemerged strongly in recent months, capitalizing on local discontent and instability. This cycle of violence has led to severe humanitarian crises, with massive displacements and alarming rates of insecurity, drawing international attention and concern.
In summary, President Felix Tshisekedi’s expedited return from Davos underscores the urgency of the escalating conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where M23 rebels are making significant advancements. The humanitarian situation is dire, with hundreds of thousands displaced, and the potential for regional escalation remains a critical concern. The international community, highlighted by UN calls for sovereignty respect, is increasingly vigilant regarding the implications of this conflict in Central Africa.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
