Congo’s government dismisses M23 rebels’ ceasefire as “false communication” amid reports of continued fighting. The M23 recently captured Goma and is advancing toward Bukavu, while Rwanda is believed to support them with thousands of troops. The death toll has risen significantly, with calls for peace and the reopening of Goma’s airport for aid highlighted by local residents and U.N. officials.
Congo’s government has characterized the unilateral ceasefire announced by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels as a “false communication” while ongoing reports of severe fighting persist in the region. The M23 rebels declared the ceasefire on humanitarian bases amid appeals for the safe passage of aid to displaced individuals. However, Congo’s government spokesperson, Patrick Muyaya, emphasized that their primary demand remains the withdrawal of M23 forces from the area.
Following M23’s recent control of Goma, a city housing 2 million residents and rich in mineral resources, concerns escalated as the rebels were reported to be advancing on additional territories, including Bukavu in South Kivu. Although the United Nations acknowledged reports of intense conflict, no evidence was found indicating M23’s proximity to Bukavu.
U.N. experts have revealed that approximately 4,000 troops from Rwanda are supporting the M23, a significantly higher number compared to the situation in 2012 when they temporarily occupied Goma. The M23’s strength poses a considerable challenge amidst numerous armed groups in eastern Congo, a region vital for global technology through its mineral deposits.
While Congo’s government expresses willingness to engage in dialogue to resolve the conflict, they assert that such discussions must adhere to prior peace agreements. Both Rwanda and M23 have accused the Congolese government of failing to uphold previous commitments. Regional leaders are scheduled to convene in Tanzania to deliberate the ongoing conflict.
Congo’s interior minister, Jacquemain Shabani, has reported that last week’s fighting resulted in approximately 2,000 fatalities, claiming that victims have been buried in mass graves. He labeled these deaths as orchestrated by the Rwandan-led forces, a statement likely to escalate tensions. Meanwhile, the U.N. health organization reported at least 900 deaths associated with the recent clashes in Goma.
In the aftermath, local residents mourned their losses, with individuals like Elisha Dunia and Debors Zuzu sharing their heartbreak over lost family members. Zuzu urged leaders to pursue peace, stating, “If everyone dies, I don’t know who the leaders will govern.” In addition, Bruno Lemarquis, the U.N. humanitarian coordinator, advocated for the urgent reopening of Goma’s airport for the transportation of aid and medical evacuations.
In summary, the ongoing conflict between Congolese government forces and M23 rebels in eastern Congo has resulted in substantial violence and a significant humanitarian crisis. Despite the M23’s declared ceasefire, the Congolese government remains firm in its demand for their withdrawal. Extensive reports of casualties reflect the urgent need for a negotiated resolution, further underscored by appeals for increased humanitarian support and a return to stability in the region.
Original Source: apnews.com
