UN Chief Calls for Immediate Resolution to Congo Conflict Amid Rwanda’s Role
At a recent African summit, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres implored nations to respect the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) territorial integrity, citing the escalating violence in the country’s eastern provinces.
M23 Advances Controlled by Rwanda Invade Key Cities
The M23 group, supported by Rwanda, seized the provincial capital Goma last month and captured South Kivu’s airport this week, before advancing into Bukavu on Friday.
International Calls for Peace and Diplomatic Efforts Intensify
Guterres emphasized the need to prevent a regional conflict and expressed doubt that military intervention could resolve the crisis.
International pressure on Rwanda has escalated, with the European Union condemning the country for violating DRC’s sovereignty. French President Emmanuel Macron has called for Rwanda to remove M23 forces from Bukavu and mandated a ceasefire.
African Leadership and Involvement Highlighted
Guterres underscored the importance of Africa in resolving the conflict, drawing attention to a late-night meeting of the African Union’s (AU) Peace and Security Council.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame participated in the summit, while DRC President Felix Tshisekedi, who was not present, reportedly kept tabs on the evolving situation.
Criticism Directed Toward the African Union
The response from the AU has faced criticism, with many viewing the body’s actions as insufficient in light of the mounting danger.
Casualties and Disruption Following M23 Incursion
Amid the backdrop of conflict, gunfire echoed through Bukavu’s streets, and reports of looting circulated, including attacks on food reserves and a World Food Programme warehouse.
Congolese and Rwandan Leaders Take Polarizing Stances
The M23 has called for the immediate withdrawal of Burundian soldiers and urged Bukavu residents to establish vigilance committees for safety.
Tshisekedi, who spoke at the Munich Security Conference, accused Rwanda of harboring “expansionist ambitions” and urged the international community to blacklist Kigali.
Rwanda has flatly denied involvement with the M23, insisting that extremist Hutu groups in the DRC pose a security threat to their nation.
Simultaneous Crises Highlight Africa’s Challenges
The summit in Addis Ababa occurred as many other conflicts wracked the continent, including the ravaging war in Sudan.
AU leaders also addressed the crucial issue of reparations for colonial abuses, reflecting broader regional considerations.
The summit culminated with the selection of Djibouti’s Mahmoud Ali Youssouf as the new AU executive commission chairman.