Fighting has resumed in eastern DRC’s South Kivu between government forces and M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda. The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties, with an estimated 2,800 fatalities in Goma. Key regional leaders will meet to discuss the situation as the humanitarian crisis deepens amidst allegations of war crimes and calls for responsible governance.
In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), renewed clashes have erupted between Congolese troops and the M23 rebel group in Nyabibwe, South Kivu. Authorities allege that the M23, allegedly backed by Rwandan soldiers, has violated its previously declared ceasefire. Fighting began early Wednesday in the Kalehe territory, jeopardizing the region’s stability, particularly as Nyabibwe serves as a significant mining hub for valuable resources such as gold and coltan.
Congolese government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya confirmed that M23 forces attacked government positions, prompting military action. Additionally, reports indicate that Rwandan reinforcements entered from Goma, which recently fell to rebel control. The capture of Nyabibwe has granted M23 a strategic advantage, closing in on Bukavu, despite earlier claims that they had no plans to take the provincial capital.
Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, acknowledged M23’s presence in Nyabibwe while claiming they acted in self-defense against government attacks. Concurrently, a Congolese military court issued an international arrest warrant for Nangaa, citing accusations of war crimes and treason alongside escalating tensions in the region.
The situation has produced a devastating humanitarian crisis, particularly in Goma, where the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reported approximately 2,800 civilian fatalities resulting from the conflict. Concerns have been raised regarding potential war crimes amid the ongoing violence, with the International Criminal Court closely observing developments as humanitarian agencies struggle to address the aftermath of the fighting.
As lawmakers in Kinshasa convene to discuss the crisis, regional leaders, including DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame, are scheduled to attend a pivotal summit in Dar es Salaam over the weekend. There, discussions will revolve around calming the tensions stemming from accusations of resource exploitation, with Rwanda asserting that its interventions are defensively motivated to safeguard ethnic Tutsis within its borders. A special session of the UN Human Rights Council is also convening to address the situation at Kinshasa’s behest.
The ongoing violence in the eastern DRC highlights the complex interplay of local and regional dynamics affecting the nation. The DRC has grappled with instability, fueled by armed groups competing for control of valuable mineral resources. The M23’s resurgence, amid allegations of Rwandan support, has exacerbated tensions, raising concerns for both national security and humanitarian crises as civilian casualties mount and governmental authority is challenged. International observers are vigilant for potential war crimes amid allegations of ruthless combat tactics employed during confrontations involving various factions.
The renewed conflict in South Kivu signifies a dangerous escalation in hostilities between Congolese forces and the M23 rebels, with serious implications for regional stability and humanitarian welfare. As international and regional leaders approach crucial discussions to address the crisis, the urgent need for dialogue and de-escalation remains paramount to prevent further deterioration of the situation, emphasizing the necessity for thorough evaluations of the humanitarian impact and accountability for violations of international law.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
