António Guterres Urges M23 to Halt Offensive in Eastern DRC

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged the M23 rebel group to cease its advance in eastern DRC, which has displaced over 178,000 people. The ongoing offensive has led to increased civilian casualties and panic as the conflict escalates. Guterres emphasized the need to respect the sovereignty of the DRC and called for an end to external support for armed groups, as the region faces one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises.

In a statement through his spokesperson, UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed grave concern about the M23 rebel group’s advance towards Goma, the largest city in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This offensive has led to the displacement of over 178,000 individuals in the past fortnight, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the region. Guterres called for an immediate cessation of M23’s military actions, emphasizing the devastating impact on civilians and the heightened risk of regional conflict.

The rebel group’s rapid advance has created panic among the local population. In recent weeks, M23 has besieged Goma while engaging in battles against the Congolese army. Key towns such as Minova and Sake have fallen into M23’s hands, leaving an atmosphere of fear and disarray in eastern DRC. Reports indicate that bombs have been heard across Goma’s outskirts, with civilians seeking refuge in hospitals due to the ongoing violence.

In response to the rebel encroachment, Congolese military helicopters have conducted airstrikes while ground troops have mobilized towards the frontline. Many residents from Sake have fled, with some escaping by boat to Goma. Neema Matondo recounted the harrowing experience of fleeing under gunfire, stating, “We escaped, but unfortunately others did not.” Another survivor, Mariam Nasibu, shared the devastating injury her child sustained amidst the chaos.

The longstanding conflict in the DRC, involving regional armies and numerous armed groups, has culminated in one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises, resulting in approximately 6 million casualties since 1998. M23, consisting primarily of Tutsi ex-soldiers, is recognized as one of the many factions operating in the mineral-rich eastern DRC, significantly funded by its control over coltan-mining regions.

International accusations have been leveled against Rwanda, alleged to support M23 with military resources. Previous reports indicated the presence of Rwandan forces operating alongside M23, raising concerns over Rwanda’s complicity in the conflict. In 2012, M23 briefly seized Goma before withdrawing under pressure from international stakeholders, including donors who conditioned aid on Rwanda’s actions.

Guterres reiterated the importance of respecting the territorial integrity of the DRC and urged all parties involved to renounce any forms of support to armed factions, whether local or foreign. This reflects a broader call for accountability and peace in a region deeply affected by armed conflict and humanitarian crises.

The ongoing conflict in the DRC is rooted in decades of violence involving various armed groups and regional power struggles, particularly following the Rwandan Genocide. The M23 rebel group emerged from this turmoil, comprising predominantly former members of the Congolese army who are aligned with Tutsi ethnic interests. This strife over control of resource-rich regions, particularly in eastern DRC, has fueled widespread displacement, with millions affected over the years. The international community, including the UN, continues to monitor the situation as humanitarian needs escalate.

The situation in the eastern DRC remains dire as the M23 rebel group continues its military offensive, displacing thousands and threatening regional stability. The UN Secretary-General’s urgent call for an immediate halt to hostilities underscores the severe humanitarian implications for the civilian population caught in the crossfire. The international community’s engagement and commitment to addressing the root causes of this conflict are essential in restoring peace and safeguarding human rights in the region.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com