M23 rebels have captured Goma, raising serious concerns for civilian safety amid ongoing conflict that has displaced 400,000 people this year. Reports indicate a shift in local support for M23, complicating the situation. Human Rights Watch warns of escalating abuses and calls for urgent international intervention as the situation evolves.
Human Rights Watch has expressed alarm regarding the heightened risks to civilians in Goma, a city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), following its capture by M23 rebels. The ongoing conflict has led to the displacement of over 400,000 individuals since the beginning of the year, as reported by the United Nations. This situation poses a severe threat to civilian safety and may result in further displacements, according to the rights organization.
Recently, residents of Goma shared videos on social media depicting M23 fighters patrolling the city, with some locals appearing to cheer for the rebels as they traversed the streets. Blaise Karege, a political and security researcher, articulated that the rebels have garnered a surprising level of support, indicating a shift in the conflict’s underlying causes.
Karege noted, “The residents are singing in the streets, and they are behind the rebel group. I don’t know if all of that is for the love, or fear, of M23.” He emphasized that the conflict is now influenced by tribal dynamics rather than solely political grievances, suggesting that M23 has solidified its base of support.
The M23 group initiated its offensive to seize Goma several weeks prior, focusing on regions near the Rwandan border, amid accusations of Rwandan support for the rebels. In light of the situation, reports indicate that the Congolese army and their allied militias have retreated from Goma, leading to concerns about control and security in the region.
Human Rights Watch raised alarms regarding the safety of civilians in Goma, as many had fled to the city to escape violence from various armed groups in eastern Congo, including M23. Researcher Clementine de Montjoye stated that reports of severe human rights abuses are at an all-time high, citing documented executions and incidents of sexual violence committed by both M23 and the rebels involved in the conflict.
M23 asserts that its mission is to protect communities from abuses inflicted by the Congolese military and other militia groups. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an end to hostilities and urged M23 to withdraw from occupied territories.
Karege added that M23 is unlikely to relinquish control easily, claiming, “Today, they say they are not going to leave the city because they are protecting their parents and children.” He asserted that M23 intends to engage in negotiations with the Kinshasa government rather than vacate key population centers in the region.
M23 has a history of capturing Goma, with their first takeover occurring in 2012, which was followed by a peace agreement with the government. However, they have renewed their offensive, arguing that the government has not upheld prior agreements, while Kinshasa insists the group must disarm before any further discussions can proceed.
The recent capture of Goma by M23 rebels has escalated concerns regarding civil safety in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This conflict has not only led to significant civilian displacement but has also altered the dynamics of local support for the rebel group. The involvement of external entities such as Rwanda plays a crucial role in the conflict, influencing both local and international perceptions of the situation.
In conclusion, the situation in Goma remains precarious, with M23 rebels now controlling the city, raising significant human rights concerns for civilians. The conflict’s evolving dynamics and the possibility of negotiated settlements complicate prospects for peace. Continued monitoring and intervention are necessary to safeguard civilian lives amidst escalating hostilities and ongoing military maneuvers.
Original Source: www.voanews.com