Call for Ceasefire in DR Congo Amid Rising Casualty Figures
The Alliance Fleuve Congo has called for a ceasefire in eastern DRC following intense conflict leading to hundreds of deaths. The DRC government accuses Rwanda of supporting M23 rebels. Ceasefire sincerity is questioned by military officials, amidst ongoing humanitarian crises and military casualties.
A rebel coalition known as Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), which encompasses the M23 armed group, has called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the wake of significant fighting that has regrettably resulted in hundreds of fatalities. This appeal for a truce is a direct response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis, attributed to the actions of the Kinshasa regime.
The DRC government and various observers internationally have accused Rwanda of providing support to the M23 rebels. The willingness of the Congolese army to consent to this ceasefire remains uncertain, as previous ceasefire attempts have not been effective in halting hostilities.
According to General Sylvain Ekenge, the military spokesperson for DRC, the ceasefire declaration made by the rebels lacks sincerity, insinuating it serves as mere propaganda aimed at assuaging international apprehensions. Reports indicate that 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan soldiers are actively assisting the M23 forces in the region.
Following intense combat that saw the rebels advance towards Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, DRC President Felix Tshisekedi vowed that a strong and unified response would continue against the M23 group, which he labeled a puppet of Rwanda. Rwandan President Paul Kagame, however, stated he was unaware of any Rwandan troop presence in the eastern DRC.
The conflict, which escalated last week, has led to significant casualties, including the deaths of foreign peacekeepers and the military governor of North Kivu. The United Nations reported over 900 bodies recovered and approximately 2,880 injuries, with medical facilities inundated and in desperate need of supplies.
The rebel alliance clarified its intentions, stating that they do not aim to seize other territories such as Bukavu and reaffirmed their commitment to the protection of civilians, marking a notable change from earlier goals of territorial expansion. Victor Tesongo, an AFC spokesman, indicated this shift in priorities.
In a prior declaration, Rebel leader Corneille Nangaa expressed ambitions for territorial control, asserting the group’s resolve to advance towards Kinshasa. This has created a complex narrative regarding the rebels’ objectives amid the growing humanitarian crisis in the region.
The conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly concerning the Alliance Fleuve Congo and the M23 group, stems from longstanding tensions influenced by regional politics, particularly involving Rwanda. With accusations of foreign interference, culminating in a humanitarian crisis characterized by violence resulting in extensive casualties and mass displacement, the situation necessitates urgent international attention and thorough investigation.
In conclusion, the call for a ceasefire by the Alliance Fleuve Congo amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian suffering illustrates the urgent need for a resolution. As combat continues to claim lives and displace thousands, the prospects for peace remain tenuous, particularly with foreign intervention complicating the political landscape. A collaborative effort from both local and international stakeholders is imperative to address these escalating challenges.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
