M23 Rebels Strengthen Their Hold on Goma Amid Escalating Conflict

M23 rebels have gained control of Goma, leading to significant casualties and a humanitarian crisis. Continued fighting has resulted in the death of over 100 people, and with fears of an escalating conflict, various international bodies are advocating for a ceasefire. The situation remains precarious as Goma faces severe humanitarian challenges and calls for urgent negotiations.

Rwanda-supported M23 rebels have firmly established their control over Goma, the largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), marking a significant setback for the Congolese army amidst a prolonged conflict that has resulted in extensive casualties and displacement. Following intense clashes that initiated with the M23’s entry into Goma, over 100 individuals have reportedly died, and around 1,000 were hospitalized due to the fighting. Despite the cessation of heavy firefights in central Goma, sporadic gunfire persists in northern districts, suggesting a continued state of unrest.

In a statement, Bertrand Bisimwa, leader of M23’s political faction, asserted that they are addressing remaining security issues in Goma, aiming for a semblance of peace and order. Local reports indicate that M23 fighters and Rwandan troops have secured key locations, including the airport and most of the city center, as residents witness a dramatic decline in normalcy with empty roads and quiet marketplaces following days of violence.

Rwanda’s regional envoy, Vincent Karega, remarked that M23’s advances would extend to South Kivu, calling for negotiations with Kinshasa, which appears unlikely at this stage. M23 fighters are reportedly moving south towards Bukavu, the province’s capital, intensifying concerns about potential further aggression in the eastern DRC region.

International humanitarian organizations are sounding alarms regarding the escalating crisis in Goma. The United Nations has warned of imminent mass displacements and critical food shortages exacerbated by the conflict, which is overwhelming healthcare facilities. Doctors Without Borders stated that their medical supplies have been compromised through looting, jeopardizing assistance to the injured, while the International Committee of the Red Cross is calling for safe humanitarian access to vulnerable populations.

M23, comprising primarily Tutsi fighters, emerged in 2012 amid accusations of Rwandan support, which Rwanda has denied. After seizing Goma in 2012, M23 faced international pressure, leading to their withdrawal. The resurgence of violence since 2022 has seen M23 reclaim territory as they engage with Congolese forces and peacekeeping missions, with suspicions of Rwandan military involvement being a contentious issue.

In light of escalating violence, the U.S. and European nations have urged a ceasefire, with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussing this imperative with President Kagame of Rwanda. However, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has opted out of a scheduled emergency virtual meeting with Kagame, planning to address the public directly instead.

The ramifications on Goma citizens are dire, as thousands have fled to neighboring Rwanda amid ongoing power outages and internet disruptions. The International Crisis Group has called for urgent negotiations to prevent a larger conflict reminiscent of early 2000s chaos in the region. They propose that group withdrawal be coupled with alternative governance for Goma during talks to restore stability.

The continuous instability in eastern DRC stems from a complex interplay of ethnic tensions, historical conflicts, and foreign interference. As various armed groups, including M23, vie for power, the humanitarian situation deteriorates, resulting in a fragile security landscape. The M23 group, primarily composed of Tutsi fighters, has faced accusations of being backed by Rwanda, a claim that has emerged as a significant aspect of regional dynamics, complicating potential diplomatic resolutions. International involvement, particularly from the U.S. and European nations, demonstrates the global acknowledgment of the crisis, with a push for ceasefire and effective negotiations.

The situation in Goma under M23 control highlights the urgency for diplomatic intervention to address escalating violence and humanitarian crises in the DRC. The continued resilience of armed groups in the region signals a need for comprehensive peace negotiations, while international actors emphasize the importance of a ceasefire. As the humanitarian needs rise and more civilians are affected, the focus must shift towards sustainable solutions to foster security and stability in the DRC.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com