Fear and Gunshots in Goma: Rwanda-Backed Rebels Claim Control
Goma residents face fear and violence following claims of a takeover by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. Gunfire erupted as armed men entered the city, stirring uncertainty. Analysts warn of escalating humanitarian crises amidst ongoing conflict involving numerous armed groups competing for control. The UN has condemned the actions of the M23, urging respect for Congo’s sovereignty, while many residents flee to Rwanda.
Residents of Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, awoke to chaos and uncertainty following claims by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels that they had taken control of the city. Reports of gunfire filled the air as armed men in military uniforms entered the city. Local residents expressed mixed feelings, with some cheering the rebels while the Congolese government did not yet confirm their takeover.
The M23, supported by Rwanda, has been engaged in a conflict for decades in this mineral-rich region, with their presence re-emerging since late 2021. While Rwanda denies backing the M23, officials from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) attribute recent escalations to foreign aggression. Analysts warn that renewed violence threatens to deepen the humanitarian crisis affecting over 6 million displaced individuals in the region.
The UN Security Council has condemned the M23’s actions, urging a reversal of their advance and respect for Congo’s sovereignty. The rebels declared their capture of Goma as a deadline for Congolese forces to surrender approached, calling for calm among residents. In response, the DRC labeled the situation as a state of war and severed ties with Rwanda after diplomatic talks fell through.
As the violence escalated, many Goma residents sought refuge across the border into Rwanda, carrying their belongings with them. The UN’s special representative stated that the city was essentially trapped, with blocked roads and a shut-down airport, intensifying the difficulties for civilians. Meanwhile, the UN peacekeeping mission, known as MONUSCO, reported the loss of several peacekeepers in the ongoing conflict.
Monika Pronczuk and Wilson McMakin contributed to this report, alongside other journalists based in various locations, emphasizing the urgent need for effective responses to the deteriorating security situation in eastern Congo.
The conflict in eastern Congo, particularly involving the M23 rebel group, has its roots in historical tensions and competition over natural resources. Rwanda’s involvement has been a contentious issue, with accusations of military support for the M23 provoking diplomatic strife between Rwanda and Congo. The humanitarian impact of this conflict is profound, with millions displaced and ongoing threats to the stability of the region.
In conclusion, the situation in Goma highlights the fragility of peace in eastern Congo, as the M23 rebels assert control amid a backdrop of violence and civilian displacement. The international community, particularly the UN, has emphasized the need for respect for sovereignty and immediate action to stabilize the region. Ongoing diplomatic efforts and strategic resolutions are essential to avert further escalation and humanitarian crises.
Original Source: apnews.com
