Uganda has initiated troop deployment to the DRC, particularly in Bunia, to combat local militias accused of massacres. The military strategy aims to aid Congolese forces against M23 rebels, who are advancing in the region. The UN has raised alarms over the rights violations linked to these conflicts.
Uganda’s military announced the deployment of troops to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to combat local militias. The Ugandan forces will be stationed in Bunia, a town located in the eastern DRC, to enhance collaborative efforts with Congolese military counterparts against increasing violence. The Ugandan military spokesperson, Felix Kulayigye, highlighted that these measures follow recent “massacres” committed by militia groups in the region.
Previously, Uganda had deployed thousands of troops in Ituri province, where Bunia serves as the capital, working to counter the Islamist group, the Allied Democratic Forces, associated with the Islamic State. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba hinted at a strict ultimatum for local militia, demanding that they surrender their weapons, threatening to engage them as enemies if they fail to comply.
The timing of the deployment coincides with the growing threats posed by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group, which continues to advance in eastern DRC. M23, significantly impacting the region’s stability, has captured the strategic city of Goma along with Bukavu, intensifying the conflict amidst numerous armed groups vying for dominance in this resource-rich area.
In addition to military actions, the UN human rights chief, Volker Turk, condemned the actions of the M23 rebels, citing severe abuses including the killing of children and the assault on humanitarian facilities. His report underlined troubling instances of summary executions and the alarming use of child soldiers during recent conflicts triggered by the rebels’ incursions.
In summary, Uganda’s deployment of troops to eastern DRC aims to quell the violence exacerbated by local militias, particularly in light of the aggressive maneuvers by the M23 rebel group. This decision reflects ongoing regional instability and a strategic commitment to safeguard lives, while international concerns mount over human rights violations amidst the escalating conflict.
Original Source: www.dw.com
