The President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, has urged young people to enlist in the military to counter M23 rebels, who are advancing towards Goma. The rebels, backed by Rwandan troops, threaten to control key territories in eastern Congo, leading to panic among residents. A regional summit has called for a ceasefire and negotiations between the Congolese government and rebels as tensions escalate.
GOMA, Congo (AP) — The President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Félix Tshisekedi, has urgently called on the nation’s youth to enlist in the military to combat advances made by the M23 rebels, who are reportedly backed by Rwanda. This announcement follows the rebels’ incursion into Goma, eastern Congo’s largest city, and amidst regional concerns for the escalating tensions in the area. The President pledged to provide a “vigorous and coordinated response” and reiterated his intention to seek a peaceful resolution in the ongoing conflict.
The M23 rebels, a group with the backing of approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, are currently seeking to control eastern Congo’s resource-rich territories. The region, known for its valuable minerals, is home to over 100 armed groups fighting for dominance. As the M23 advance towards Bukavu, fear is gripping residents, particularly as government forces struggle to maintain a strong defense due to a withdrawal of foreign military contractors.
In response to the situation, a regional summit urged the Congolese government to participate in discussions with M23 rebels, highlighting the urgent need for a ceasefire. These tensions are exacerbated by the absence of President Tshisekedi from the summit. Analysts warn that the possibility of regional conflict looms as fighting escalates, further complicated by remarks exchanged between Rwandan and South African leaders.
The conflict has roots in historical ethnic strife dating back to the 1994 Rwandan genocide, during which many Hutus fled to Congo. The M23 claim they aim to protect ethnic Tutsis in the region, while Rwanda asserts that these groups are under threat. Observers suggest that the political dynamics between Congo and Rwanda reflect a long-standing failure of mediation efforts and highlight aggressive posturing from both governments, leading to a precarious situation that poses a broader risk to regional stability.
In conclusion, President Félix Tshisekedi’s call for military mobilization signifies the escalating threat posed by M23 rebels in eastern Congo. The M23, with Rwandan support, aims to expand their control over crucial mineral-rich areas while the Congolese government struggles to respond. Regional diplomatic efforts urge Ceasefire negotiations; however, complexities from historical conflicts and current tensions raise concerns regarding the stability of the region. Immediate and effective dialogue is essential to avert a deeper crisis.
Original Source: apnews.com
