Major General Peter Cirimwami, governor of North Kivu, died from injuries during fighting with M23 rebels near Goma. His death reflects the escalating conflict as M23 continues to advance towards the capital. The situation has prompted evacuations by foreign governments as seven million people remain displaced in this humanitarian crisis.
Authorities reported the death of North Kivu province’s Governor, Major General Peter Cirimwami, who succumbed to injuries sustained during clashes with M23 rebels. His death occurred on January 24, amidst escalating hostilities as M23 forces advanced on the provincial capital, Goma, which is home to approximately two million residents and serves as a critical security and humanitarian center.
Cirimwami was actively involved in military operations, having visited frontline troops in Kasengezi, located about 13 kilometers from Goma, on the day of his demise. The confirmation of his death came from several anonymous sources, including military and United Nations officials, who were not authorized to disclose the details publicly.
On the preceding day, alarm spread throughout Goma following the capture of Sake by M23 rebels, which is merely 27 kilometers from Goma. The situation intensified with ongoing confrontations between the Congolese army and M23 forces, prompting advisories from the United Kingdom, United States, and France for their citizens to evacuate the area due to the deteriorating security conditions.
M23 is among approximately 100 armed factions vying for control in the mineral-rich eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has been embroiled in a prolonged conflict resulting in a severe humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate that the violence has displaced over seven million individuals, and M23’s recent territorial gains include the towns of Minova, Katale, and Masisi in the vicinity of Goma.
The DRC, along with the United States and UN specialists, accuses Rwanda of supporting the M23 group, which comprises ethnic Tutsis who dissociated from the Congolese army over a decade ago. While the Rwandan government denies such allegations, it has acknowledged the presence of its troops and missile systems in eastern Congo, citing security concerns tied to the buildup of Congolese military forces near its border. UN estimates suggest the presence of approximately 4,000 Rwandan personnel in the DRC.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been the epicenter of conflict for several decades, particularly in its eastern regions rich in minerals. This ongoing violence has involved numerous armed groups, with M23 being one of the most notable factions, having previously seized Goma in 2012. The complex dynamics of regional politics, particularly involving Rwandan support for M23, contribute significantly to the instability and humanitarian crises faced by millions in the DRC.
The death of Major General Peter Cirimwami underscores the escalating conflict in eastern Congo, particularly as M23 rebels intensify their assault on Goma. With international warnings and ongoing armed confrontations, the humanitarian situation remains dire as the region struggles with more than seven million displaced individuals amid a historically rooted conflict.
Original Source: www.lemonde.fr
