Fear and Instability in Goma: Rwanda-Backed Rebels Claim Control of the City
Fear grips Goma as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels allege control over the city, causing civilian unrest and escalating conflict with Congolese forces. The Congolese government claims Rwanda is engaging in aggression as displaced residents flee the violence, and the UN calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
Residents of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, awoke on Monday amidst uncertainty after Rwanda-backed M23 rebels claimed they had seized control. Amidst escalating violence, gunfire echoed throughout the night as armed men dressed in military uniforms entered the city. Some locals appeared to support the rebels, although the Congolese government has yet to confirm these takeover claims.
The M23 rebel group, which receives alleged support from Rwanda, is part of a larger conflict involving approximately 100 armed groups competing for dominance in the mineral-rich eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The group had previously taken Goma in 2012 and re-emerged in late 2021 with increased backing from Rwanda, though Rwanda denies providing such support. The United Nations has expressed concern regarding the region’s humanitarian crisis, with over six million displaced individuals.
The situation in Goma reflects a complex conflict intertwining local and international interests, exacerbated by the humanitarian crisis. With the M23’s advances, the DRC government accuses Rwanda of aggression, escalating tensions. Consequently, the international community is urged to address the sovereignty issues in the region and take steps to mitigate the burgeoning humanitarian disaster.
Original Source: apnews.com
