DR Congo Accuses Rwanda of Military Incursion in Goma Amid Rising Tensions
The DRC government has alleged Rwandan military involvement in Goma as M23 rebels claim control. Artillery exchanges and civilian casualties have been reported, with a crisis summit planned by Kenyan leaders. The DRC faces a long-standing struggle against armed groups, exacerbated by foreign influence, with calls for peace talks amid rising tensions.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) government has accused the Rwandan military of entering Goma in North Kivu province, coinciding with claims by the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group of capturing the provincial capital. Patrick Muyaya, a government spokesperson, expressed grave concerns over Rwanda’s intentions and urged residents to remain indoors to prevent destruction and chaos.
According to UN sources, artillery exchanges occurred between Congolese forces and Rwandan troops along the border. Reports indicate that five civilians died and 25 were injured near Gisenyi, Rwanda. The border area around Goma was reportedly closed in response to these escalating tensions.
The situation intensified as M23 rebels seized Goma, leading to a mass jailbreak in Munzenze prison amid a fire outbreak. Recently, international peacekeepers were also killed during confrontations with M23 forces. The UN Security Council condemned the actions of the M23 group and urged external forces to withdraw, emphasizing respect for Congolese sovereignty.
Kenya’s President William Ruto has announced a crisis summit involving the leaders of Rwanda and the DRC to seek resolutions. Both President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and President Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC confirmed their participation in the meeting, signaling a preference for dialogue over military solutions following failed Angola-mediated negotiations.
The conflict in eastern Congo is complex, with accusations against Rwanda for supporting M23 rebels, which Rwanda denies despite acknowledging its military presence in the area. The region, abundant in minerals, has been a hotbed of armed conflict, producing over 7 million internally displaced individuals. M23 previously captured Goma in 2012 but withdrew shortly thereafter.
The DRC has been embroiled in conflict for decades, primarily due to its rich natural resources and the presence of various armed groups, including the M23. The region has witnessed recurrent violence, resulting in significant internal displacement and humanitarian crises. Despite international efforts, sporadic fighting continues. Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 rebels has exacerbated tensions between the two nations. The geopolitical dynamics in the Great Lakes region of Africa complicate the conflict further.
The ongoing conflict in Goma highlights the severe humanitarian and geopolitical ramifications of the tensions between the DRC and Rwanda. With calls for dialogue and direct engagement, there remains hope for a diplomatic resolution, but the situation remains fragile as both military and civilian casualties mount. The outcomes of the upcoming crisis summit place emphasis on resolving differences through non-military means.
Original Source: www.dw.com
