Rwanda has called for a ceasefire and negotiations with the M23 rebels, following their capture of Goma in eastern Congo. Despite international claims of Rwandan support for M23, Rwanda denies involvement and insists on a diplomatic resolution to the conflict. The situation remains volatile as M23 expands its control southward, while ethnic tensions continue to influence the deteriorating conditions in the region.
Rwanda has called for a ceasefire across eastern Congo and negotiations with the M23 rebel group, which has recently taken control of Goma, a city in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe stated in a telephone interview that while Goma is now under rebel control, sporadic violence, including looting, continues in the city. He emphasized that Rwanda endorses a regional ceasefire and dialogue, which it has advocated for some time.
Despite claims from international bodies, including the U.N. and U.S., alleging that Rwanda supports M23 militants, the Rwandan government denies deploying its troops into Congo, labeling its military stance as purely defensive. On the ground, M23 rebels are expanding their reach southward from Goma towards Bukavu, indicating their intentions to extend control over more territories.
Nduhungirehe acknowledged that the capture of Goma undermines Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi’s position, insisting that negotiation with the rebels is now the only viable solution. He remarked that Rwanda has consistently resisted military resolutions to the conflict. Meanwhile, the DRC categorizes M23 as a terrorist entity and is not willing to engage in direct negotiations with them.
As ethnic tensions between Hutus and Tutsis continue to fuel the conflict, Rwanda has raised concerns about Rwandans, involved in the genocide of 1994, who have reportedly sought refuge in Congo, claiming connections with the Congolese military. The rapid territorial gains of M23, which became apparent following the breakdown of peace discussions with Rwanda in mid-December, have escalated the urgency of the situation.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo has deep roots in historical ethnic tensions, particularly between the Hutus and Tutsis, which can be traced back to the Rwandan genocide of 1994. This conflict has often spilled over the borders, with various groups, including M23, fighting for control over resource-rich territories in Congo. Recent violence and power shifts, including the M23’s control of Goma, have again highlighted the need for diplomatic resolutions in the region.
In summary, Rwanda’s call for a ceasefire in eastern Congo amid the M23’s control of Goma underscores the complexities of the region’s conflicts. As severe fighting continues and the international community watches, the dynamics between Rwanda, the DRC, and M23 will shape future negotiations and resolutions. The ongoing ethnic strife further complicates the potential for peace, necessitating comprehensive dialogue to resolve the unrest.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
