The UN human rights chief accuses M23 rebels of committing atrocities, including killing children and attacking hospitals in eastern Congo. The rebels captured Bukavu after seizing Goma, causing significant casualties and displacement. International condemnation, notably from the U.K., calls for Rwanda to withdraw its troops, emphasizing the ongoing humanitarian crisis affecting millions.
The United Nations human rights chief, Volker Türk, has publicly condemned Rwanda-backed rebels, specifically the M23 group, for egregious acts in eastern Congo, including the killing of children and assaults on hospitals and humanitarian aid depots. He stated that there have been confirmed instances of summary executions involving children since the rebels captured the city of Bukavu last week. Additionally, reports indicate that children were found wielding weapons during these conflicts.
The M23 rebels recently gained control of Bukavu, a significant city with a population of over 1.3 million, following their previous seizure of Goma. This escalation has resulted in significant casualties, with reports indicating at least 3,000 deaths and thousands of people displaced due to fighting in Goma. The M23 group, which is one of over 100 armed factions operating in eastern Congo, is alleged to be supported by around 4,000 Rwandan troops.
Rwanda has accused the Congolese government of recruiting Hutu militias linked to the genocide of Tutsis in 1994. On the other hand, M23 claims to be defending Tutsis and Congolese individuals of Rwandan descent from discrimination and aims to reform Congo into a more effective state, a claim viewed skeptically by critics. Unlike a previous uprising in 2012, analysts believe that M23 is now seeking political power.
In response to the situation, the U.K. Foreign Office has expressed strong disapproval of Rwanda’s military actions, calling them a violation of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s sovereignty. They have urged the Rwandan government to withdraw its troops from Congolese territory immediately. Approximately six million individuals have been displaced due to years of conflict in the region, marking it as one of the largest humanitarian crises worldwide.
In an effort to improve transportation between the cities, the rebel-appointed governor of North Kivu province announced the reopening of a ferry service connecting Bukavu and Goma. Meanwhile, Ugandan troops have also deployed to the northeastern city of Bunia to assist the Congolese army against violence perpetrated by ethnic groups. This military cooperation between Uganda and Congo has been ongoing but is conducted with the central government’s consent.
The situation in eastern Congo remains dire as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels continue to pose a significant threat, engaging in violent acts against civilians, including children. The international community, particularly the U.K., has condemned these actions, highlighting the need for Rwanda to withdraw its forces. The humanitarian crisis in the region is severe, with millions displaced and suffering from the consequences of prolonged conflict.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
