Felix Tshisekedi, president of the DRC, called for countermeasures against Rwanda for the escalating conflict in eastern Congo during the Munich Security Conference. He claimed Rwanda has provoked instability for years, contributing to over 7 million internal displacements. Rwandan Defense Minister Juvenal Marizamunda stated that Rwanda has no interest in an unstable DRC, emphasizing the need for dialogue amidst ongoing violence, including M23 rebel actions in eastern Congo.
President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) called for countermeasures against Rwanda during a discussion at the Munich Security Conference regarding the escalating conflict in eastern Congo. Tshisekedi asserted that Rwanda has long provoked instability without any repercussions, claiming that over 7 million individuals in Congo have been internally displaced due to ongoing conflicts spanning more than two decades.
Tshisekedi emphasized the need for prompt action on these matters, highlighting the potential for increased instability across the African continent. Rwandan Defense Minister Juvenal Marizamunda, present at the discussion, expressed that Rwanda itself has been adversely affected by the crisis and has “nothing to gain from an unstable DRC.”
As tensions escalated, Christoph Heusgen, the moderator, urged both parties to engage in dialogue rather than declarations, expressing that peace could only be achieved through mutual communication, potentially with the assistance of the United Nations. Meanwhile, reports surfaced that M23 rebels had captured Kavumu Airport and entered Bukavu, further intensifying the conflict.
The United Nations reported alarming statistics since the conflict’s resurgence on January 26, including over 3,000 fatalities, nearly 2,880 injuries, and more than 500,000 additional displacements, compounding the already significant internal displacement crisis. Kinshasa has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, allegations that Kigali continues to deny.
In summary, President Tshisekedi of the DRC is advocating for measures against Rwanda, attributing the ongoing conflict and large-scale displacement to Rwandan provocations. The need for dialogue is echoed by the discussion’s moderator, while the situation on the ground remains dire, with escalating violence and casualties reported. As the DRC and regional actors navigate this complex crisis, international support and negotiations may be critical to achieving stability.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
