DRC Governor Killed Amid Rising Violence with M23 Rebels

Major General Peter Cirimwami, governor of North Kivu, was killed during fighting with M23 rebels as they advanced towards Goma, raising concerns about the city’s security. Panic ensued in Goma following M23’s control of nearby Sake. The situation highlights ongoing humanitarian crises and international tensions related to Rwandan involvement in the conflict.

The governor of North Kivu province in eastern Congo, Major General Peter Cirimwami, has died from injuries sustained during recent confrontations with M23 rebels. His death occurred on January 24, as M23 rebel forces aggressively advanced towards Goma, the provincial capital, which houses approximately two million residents. Cirimwami was on-site visiting troops at the Kasengezi frontline when the incident took place, according to anonymous sources from the government, military, and the UN due to confidentiality constraints.

Following Cirimwami’s death, the situation in Goma became increasingly precarious, particularly as M23 rebels gained control of Sake, a key area merely 27 kilometers from the city. In response to the escalating violence, the armies of DRC and M23 engaged in clashes near Goma, prompting the United Kingdom, United States, and France to advise their citizens to evacuate. The humanitarian crisis in this region is exacerbated by the persistent conflict between various armed groups.

The M23 group, comprised mainly of ethnic Tutsis, is a critical player in eastern Congo’s long-standing turmoil, which has led to considerable displacement and suffering among civilians—over seven million individuals displaced to date. In recent operations, M23 forced the capture of various towns, including Minova and Masisi, indicating a resurgence in their influence and control.

Congo, along with international observers, has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 group, a claim consistently refuted by Rwandan officials. Nevertheless, Rwanda has acknowledged the presence of its forces within Congolese territory as a security measure against perceived threats, highlighting the complexities surrounding the alleged foreign intervention in the decades-long conflict.

The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo resides in a historical context that includes the participation of numerous armed groups vying for control of the region, particularly due to its rich mineral resources. The M23 rebels, established in 2012, are among the most prominent factions, with accusations of external support from Rwanda. The situation remains volatile, as the humanitarian crisis complicates the military engagement and efforts to restore peace in the region.

The death of Major General Cirimwami during an assault by M23 rebels underscores the dire security situation in eastern Congo, particularly as rebel forces tighten their grip around Goma. As international powers call for evacuation, the humanitarian plight remains critical, demanding immediate attention to the causes of this prolonged conflict, including the alleged foreign involvement.

Original Source: www.lemonde.fr