Congo’s Catholic Delegation Engages with Rebel Leader Amid Rising Tensions
The Catholic Church in Congo engaged with rebel leader Corneille Nangaa, who leads M23 forces that recently overtook Goma. This move potentially challenges President Tshisekedi’s authority as Nangaa seeks to represent opposition factions. As M23 threatens further advances, concerns grow over escalating conflict and humanitarian crises in the region that have displaced over one million individuals.
On Wednesday, representatives from the influential Catholic Church in the Democratic Republic of Congo convened with rebel leader Corneille Nangaa, whose forces recently captured Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, from M23. This development potentially unsettles the government in Kinshasa, particularly as Nangaa positions himself as a prominent figure amidst the political unrest against President Felix Tshisekedi.
The meeting follows the M23 forces, affiliated with Nangaa’s Alliance Fleuve Congo, threatening to advance towards Bukavu, another major city in the South Kivu province. M23 has effectively governed Goma since late January while asserting their military capabilities in the region. Details about the proceedings were scarce after the meeting concluded in the afternoon.
An unnamed church source suggested that the purpose of the meeting was to gather various perspectives from different factions to formulate an inclusive dialogue framework. Meanwhile, President Tshisekedi’s office expressed openness to the church’s initiative, as long as it encompasses all stakeholders and remains inclusive.
The renewed tensions, along with M23’s potential offensive towards Bukavu, have raised alarms regarding another widespread conflict in the region reminiscent of wars fought between 1996 and 2003. There were reported clashes near the town of Ihusi, situated west of Lake Kivu, indicating escalating military activities in the area.
Despite M23’s threat level, Bukavu and the nearby Kavumu, which hosts the local airport, remain under the control of the Congolese military, bolstered by pro-government militias and Burundian troops. Reports have emerged of M23 and Rwandan military personnel assembling at the South Kivu border, amid accusations against Rwanda for covertly aiding the rebels.
Since early 2022, the ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with over one million individuals displaced. Nonetheless, a semblance of normality appears to be returning to Goma, as indicated by the United Nations, with citizens gradually resuming daily activities and displaced persons leaving camps.
M23 has recently announced intentions to vacate displacement camps within 72 hours, later stating that such relocations should be voluntary to ensure humanitarian considerations are respected.
In conclusion, the meeting between Congo’s Catholic Church representatives and rebel leader Corneille Nangaa highlights the deepening political divisions and unrest within the Democratic Republic of Congo. With tensions mounting and military activities escalating in the eastern region, the potential for further conflict looms. The government’s response remains cautious, indicating a willingness to engage in dialogue while the humanitarian situation continues to be precarious.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
