DRC’s President Promises Strong Military Action Against Rwanda-Backed M23 Fighters
DRC President Felix Tshisekedi has committed to a robust military response against the advancing Rwanda-backed M23 fighters, who have recently captured significant territories in eastern DRC, including Goma. Tshisekedi criticized the international community’s indifference amid the escalating conflict, while discussions for peace continue among regional leaders. The ongoing violence has resulted in the loss of South African soldiers, prompting calls for urgent mediation and peaceful settlement efforts.
President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has pledged a strong military response to the advancing Rwanda-backed M23 fighters, who have taken significant control of the eastern regions, including Goma, the North Kivu province’s capital. These developments represent a considerable escalation in a lengthy conflict, as M23 continues its territorial gains in a region affected by decades of violence and instability.
The offensive by M23 has prompted urgent discussions among regional organizations in Eastern and Southern Africa, as well as appeals from the United Nations, the United States, China, and the European Union. In a late-night address, President Tshisekedi expressed his frustration over the international community’s lack of action, labeling it an affront to the deteriorating security situation in the Great Lakes region.
Despite tensions, President Tshisekedi chose not to attend emergency talks with Rwandan President Paul Kagame, following which the East African Community reiterated the need for peaceful conflict resolution. President Kagame subsequently informed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa that Rwanda would not fulfill a mediating role in the ongoing crises surrounding the conflict.
Recent violence has claimed the lives of thirteen South African soldiers serving with UN peacekeeping forces and the Southern African Development Community Mission in DRC (SAMIDRC). Kagame emphasized that SAMIDRC cannot effectively contribute to peacekeeping efforts in the ongoing circumstances, while the sixteen-member Southern African Development Community has scheduled a special summit to address the crisis.
Angola, known for facilitating past ceasefires between the DRC army and M23 forces, has called for an urgent meeting between President Tshisekedi and President Kagame in Luanda to address the escalating situation directly.
The M23, or March 23 Movement, is one of several armed groups operating in the eastern DRC, a region characterized by longstanding conflict influenced by internal strife and external factors, particularly involving Rwanda. The group has gained notoriety since its formation due to its efforts to control valuable mineral resources in this resource-rich area. The recent resurgence of M23 and its occupation of Goma marks a significant deteriorating condition in an already fragile regional security landscape.
In conclusion, President Tshisekedi’s vow for a vigorous military response signals a critical moment in the conflict between the DRC and M23. The lack of international support has exacerbated the situation, prompting discussions for peaceful resolutions among regional leaders. With rising casualties and geopolitical tensions, urgent diplomatic interventions are necessary to avoid further escalation in the Great Lakes region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
