Ugandan Army Deploys to DRC Amid Concerns of Escalating Conflict
The Ugandan army has deployed troops to Mahagi, DRC, to combat local militias amid fears of escalating conflict. The deployment aims to address rising violence linked to the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (Codeco). This action follows recent civilian massacres, as the security situation in Ituri province worsens with the influence of the M23 group, supported by Rwanda, adding to regional tensions.
The Ugandan army has confirmed its deployment of troops to Mahagi, a town in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo, to combat local armed groups. This action is taken amid rising fears that ongoing conflicts could escalate into a larger war. Uganda’s defense and military affairs spokesman, Felix Kulayigye, announced the troop entry, stating, “Our troops have entered Mahagi town and we are in control.”
The Congolese army requested this deployment due to reports of atrocities perpetrated by the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (Codeco), a militia allegedly responsible for civilian massacres. In Ituri province, which borders Uganda, armed conflicts have led to significant civilian casualties, with a reported 51 people killed on February 10. Codeco claims to represent the Lendu agricultural community, asserting that it is defending their interests against the Hema pastoral community.
Uganda maintains a considerable military presence in Ituri under a collaboration agreement with the Congolese government and is engaged in a joint operation against the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels near its border. This month, Uganda declared its control over Bunia, Ituri’s capital.
The situation in Ituri is complicated by the activities of the M23 anti-government group, supported by Rwanda, which has gained control over significant regions in eastern DRC. The M23 recently claimed to have captured members of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militia linked to the Rwandan genocide. In contrast, the Congolese army refuted these claims, calling the evidence presented by the M23 a fabrication.
Rwanda’s involvement, justified by its claims of FDLR presence in DRC, further complicates the regional dynamics. The Congolese military dismissed the M23’s claims as “faked” and a tactic to undermine its credibility, suggesting a deeper strategic maneuver from Rwanda regarding territorial ambitions. Analysts express concern that the heightened military activities of Uganda and Rwanda might lead to a resurgence of conflicts reminiscent of the devastating Second Congo War, which resulted in millions of deaths from violence and humanitarian crises.
The deployment of Ugandan troops to Mahagi, DRC, amid rising conflict illustrates the precarious security situation in the region. Allegations of human rights abuses by local militias and the escalating military presence of regional actors, such as Rwanda, heighten concerns over a potential return to broader military conflict. The complexities of the political landscape necessitate careful international attention and reaction to avoid further destabilization of eastern DRC.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
