DR Congo President Félix Tshisekedi has vowed to respond vigorously to M23 rebels who have seized Goma. He criticized international inaction amid escalating humanitarian crises, which have displaced 500,000 people. Tshisekedi’s address called on citizens to support military efforts, while regional leaders pushed for peaceful conflict resolution amid rising tensions between DR Congo, Rwanda, and South Africa.
President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has promised a robust response to the advancing M23 rebels who have overtaken Goma and are pushing further south. In a recent televised address, he characterized the rebels as “terrorists” and indicated a coordinated military effort is underway to regain control and restore governmental authority in eastern Congo.
Tshisekedi expressed frustration with the international community’s lack of action amid the escalating crisis, urging global support to address the humanitarian concerns that have arisen from the conflict. The increased fighting has already displaced roughly 500,000 individuals, complicating already dire humanitarian conditions, including shortages of food, electricity, and water.
During his address, he called upon all citizens to rally behind the military to reclaim the lost territories. “Be sure of one thing: the Democratic Republic of Congo will not let itself be humiliated or crushed. We will fight and we will triumph,” he asserted emphatically.
An East African regional summit recently convened by Kenyan President William Ruto, which Tshisekedi chose to boycott, urged the Congolese government to engage directly with all stakeholders, including the M23 rebels, advocating for a peaceful resolution to the crisis. Leaders from Rwanda and other nations attended the summit, highlighting the broader regional implications of the conflict.
Tshisekedi acknowledged the contribution of South African soldiers in the fight against the M23 rebels, following the deaths of thirteen South African peacekeepers in Goma. Tensions have escalated between Rwanda and South Africa, with Rwandan President Paul Kagame stating Rwanda is prepared to confront South Africa if necessary after accusations of Rwandan complicity in the conflict.
Angola has proposed an urgent meeting between the Congolese and Rwandan leaders to facilitate discussions aimed at resolving the crisis, emphasizing the need for renewed talks through both East African and Angola-led initiatives that have previously fallen short in addressing this ongoing conflict.
Tensions in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have been intensified by the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, which has been accused of receiving support from Rwanda. The current situation has led to severe humanitarian consequences, with significant displacement of civilians and supply shortages. Efforts by national and regional leaders to mediate and resolve the conflict have yet to produce lasting solutions, prompting calls for aggressive military action from Congolese leadership.
In light of the escalating conflict with M23 rebels and deteriorating humanitarian conditions, President Tshisekedi’s commitment to a vigorous military response reflects a determination to restore peace and stability in eastern Congo. The international community’s inaction has exacerbated the crisis, and regional dialogues are crucial for a comprehensive resolution to the ongoing violence. The precarious situation continues to pose grave challenges for both humanitarian assistance and regional relations.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
