UN Chief Guterres Raises Alarm Over M23 Rebel Offensive in DRC

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced grave concerns over the renewed M23 rebel offensives in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which have severely impacted civilians. Guterres emphasized the urgency for M23 to cease attacks and adhere to the ceasefire agreement while calling for respect for the DRC’s sovereignty. He reaffirmed support for ongoing peace processes and humanitarian assistance access in the conflict-ridden regions.

António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations, has expressed considerable concern regarding the resurgence of offensives by M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which he states has led to a significant and devastating impact on civilians. The statement, delivered by his spokesperson, emphasized the recent occupation of Sake by the M23, supported by Rwanda, and the heightened risk this poses to the regional capital of Goma, potentially escalating into a wider regional conflict.

After the UN Mission concluded its operations in South Kivu in June 2024, peacekeepers have focused on securing vital locations in North Kivu amidst ongoing clashes among the M23, Congolese Armed Forces, and various armed groups. The UN peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, reported that recent confrontations in the village of Bweremana resulted in at least ten fatalities and caused the displacement of over 250,000 individuals towards regions such as Kalehe, Goma, and Rusayo.

In his statement, Secretary-General Guterres urged the M23 to halt all offensive actions, withdraw from seized territories, and comply with the ceasefire agreement established on July 31, 2024. He articulated his deep concerns regarding findings from the UN Security Council’s Group of Experts, which suggested the presence of Rwandan military personnel in the DRC and their ongoing assistance to the M23 rebels.

Guterres called upon all factions involved in the DRC conflict to respect the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, urging an end to any form of support for armed groups, both local and foreign. Additionally, he reiterated his steadfast support for the Luanda peace initiative, led by Angolan President João Lourenço, aimed at de-escalating tensions between the DRC and Rwanda.

The Secretary-General urged all conflicting parties to stay committed to the Luanda dialogue process and to effectively implement measures addressing the neutralization of the FDLR, the withdrawal of foreign troops, and the establishment of a Reinforced Ad-Hoc Verification Mechanism. He also highlighted the importance of upholding humanitarian rights and accessing those in need of assistance.

Furthermore, Guterres reaffirmed MONUSCO’s commitment to protecting civilians and condemned any actions jeopardizing the safety of UN personnel and civilians alike. He called for immediate humanitarian assistance access, emphasizing that civilian protection remains paramount for the UN peacekeeping mission.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has faced numerous insurgencies and conflicts, particularly in its eastern regions. Among the most significant armed groups is the M23, a rebel faction that has been implicated in various human rights abuses and has sparked international concern over regional stability. The presence of Rwandan troops and their alleged support for M23 greatly complicates the situation, leading to heightened fears of a broader conflict that could involve neighboring countries. The United Nations has been actively engaged in mediation efforts to resolve the ongoing violence and support humanitarian initiatives.

In summary, Secretary-General António Guterres has urgently called for an end to the M23 rebel offensive in the DRC due to its catastrophic consequences for civilians. His statements underscore the necessity for all parties to respect the DRC’s sovereignty, uphold humanitarian laws, and find a peaceful resolution through dialogue. The international community’s involvement, particularly the UN peacekeeping mission, remains crucial in safeguarding vulnerable populations amid ongoing hostilities.

Original Source: news.un.org