President Tshisekedi returned early from the World Economic Forum in Davos due to escalating violence from the M23 rebels in eastern DR Congo, causing over 400,000 people to flee their homes. The rebels have advanced significantly, threatening the provincial capital Goma, while the UN warns of a potential wider conflict involving regional powers.
President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has curtailed his attendance at the World Economic Forum in Davos due to the deteriorating security situation in his home country. Conflict in the eastern region has escalated since the start of the year, with Rwanda-backed M23 rebels capturing more territory than ever before, prompting urgent security meetings in Kinshasa.
The United Nations reports that over 400,000 individuals have been displaced since January as the M23 approaches Goma, the provincial capital. This city, which houses a population exceeding one million, is crucial for both military and economic reasons, and its loss to the rebels would be significant. Recent reports confirm that the M23 has taken towns such as Masisi, Minova, and Sake in North Kivu.
The Congolese army claimed to have repelled the M23 attack on Sake, located just 20 kilometers from Goma, while many residents of Sake and surrounding areas attempt to escape the violence. Displaced individuals have fled with basic provisions, leaving behind their homes. The M23 has controlled considerable portions of mineral-rich eastern DR Congo since 2021, intensifying the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The ongoing conflict, which has seen a resurgence since late 2022, also involves allegations of Rwandan support for the M23, though Rwandan authorities remain ambiguous about this claim. On a global stage, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed concern regarding the potential for the conflict to escalate into a larger regional war, urging all parties to respect DR Congo’s sovereignty and cease assistance to armed factions.
The conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) dates back several years, with the eastern region experiencing persistent instability stemming from armed rebel groups. The M23 rebel group has been particularly active, allegedly receiving support from neighboring Rwanda, which has further complicated the situation. International efforts to mediate the conflict have been ongoing, but the recent escalation poses a grave threat to both national and regional security, as well as humanitarian conditions for the affected populations.
In conclusion, President Felix Tshisekedi’s premature departure from Davos underscores the urgent security crises impacting the Democratic Republic of Congo as M23 rebels gain ground. With significant displacement of civilians and the potential for wider conflict, the situation remains critical. Global awareness and intervention are crucial to stabilize the region and protect vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
