Protesters in Eastern DRC Rally Against Rwanda and Rebel Negotiations
Protesters in Butembo, eastern DRC, expressed strong opposition to negotiations with M23 rebels and called for increased military action against both M23 and ADF insurgents. The protests reflect deep-seated frustrations over Rwanda’s alleged support for the rebels and the ongoing violence faced by local communities. Activists urged the DRC government to reject any withdrawal orders and instead bolster support for the Congolese armed forces. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, but many locals demand a more aggressive military response.
On Tuesday, hundreds of protesters took to the streets of Butembo in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to voice their outrage against Rwanda and the ongoing negotiations with M23 rebels. The demonstrators expressed their unwavering support for the Congolese armed forces, urging them to intensify their military offensives against both the M23 insurgents and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) militants responsible for numerous attacks in the region. Frank Mukendi, a participant in the protest, asserted, “We stand behind them, we support them, and we call on them to launch offensives. From today, we intend to work with them to fight the enemy. Our regions are occupied, and that is why we are asking them. We also ask them to reject any order to withdraw without justification, especially politically motivated messages.” The protests coincide with diplomatic efforts in Luanda aimed at settling the ongoing conflict involving Rwanda, accused of supporting M23 forces. Activists, like Muhindo Shafi from civil society, condemned Rwanda’s claims regarding the presence of FDLR members in the DRC, regarding these assertions as a distraction from the country’s underlying issues. Moreover, the protests highlighted the persistent violence inflicted on civilians by the ADF, particularly in North Kivu, where, according to civil society reports, over 17,000 lives have been lost since October 2014. Rose Kahavu, another protester, emphasized the dire situation: “We are being massacred in Beni, in the Lubero territory. We say enough is enough. Provide all necessary means to the FARDC so they can strike against the M23 and ADF rebels. Today, I am protesting to say no to negotiations.” In response to the escalating violence, the governments of DRC and Uganda are reportedly enhancing military collaboration in an attempt to restore security in the region. Previously, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi held discussions with Ugandan military officials on October 13, emphasizing the urgent need for coordinated efforts to combat insecurity.
The conflict in eastern DRC involves multiple armed groups, with the M23 rebel movement allegedly receiving support from Rwanda—a claim that has been a focal point of ongoing tensions between the two nations. In recent years, violence perpetrated by groups such as the ADF has resulted in significant civilian casualties and displacement, further complicating the humanitarian crisis in the region. The DRC government has been engaged in negotiations with Rwandan authorities to seek a peaceful resolution, but local sentiments often oppose this diplomatic approach, urging for a more aggressive military response against armed groups.
The protests in Butembo reflect a growing frustration among civilians in eastern DRC regarding the ongoing violence from armed groups like the M23 and ADF, as well as dissatisfaction with Rwanda’s role in the conflict. Demonstrators are calling for the Congolese government to prioritize military action over negotiations with rebels, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced security measures to protect local populations. As diplomatic discussions continue, the voices of the protesters underscore the complexities of resolving the prolonged conflict in the region.
Original Source: www.africanews.com
