UN Secretary-General António Guterres has raised serious concerns over the M23 rebels’ offensive in Eastern DRC, which has led to significant civilian casualties and displacements. He urged the rebels to cease hostilities and adhere to the ceasefire agreement. The situation is exacerbated by reports of Rwandan troop presence in the DRC, prompting call for respect for Congolese sovereignty and support for the ongoing peace process.
On Thursday, UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed grave concern over the renewed military actions by M23 rebels in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), highlighting the severe impact on civilians. In his statement, he addressed the rebels’ recent capture of Sake, which poses an increased threat to the regional capital, Goma, and escalates the risk of a regional conflict despite Rwanda denying involvement with M23 operatives.
Since the withdrawal of the UN Mission from South Kivu in June 2024, clashes have continued between the M23, Congolese Armed Forces, and various armed groups. Recent violence in the village of Bweremana has resulted in at least ten fatalities and mass displacements towards Kalehe, Goma, and Rusayo, leaving over 250,000 individuals displaced, according to the UN peacekeeping mission MONUSCO.
Guterres urged the M23 rebels to halt their offensive, retreat from occupied territories, and adhere to the ceasefire agreement established on July 31, 2024. He expressed deep concern regarding the report from the UN Group of Experts revealing the presence of Rwandan troops in the DRC and their continued support for the M23 fighters.
Furthermore, Guterres emphasized the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC and called for an end to all foreign support for armed groups. He reiterated unwavering support for the ongoing Luanda peace process led by Angolan President João Lourenço aimed at de-escalating tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, while commending the progress made thus far.
The Secretary-General has urged all conflict parties to engage in the Luanda process actively and remain focused on neutralizing the FDLR, ensuring the withdrawal of Rwandan forces, and establishing the Reinforced Ad-Hoc Verification Mechanism promptly. He called for upholding human rights and international humanitarian law, ensuring unrestricted access to humanitarian assistance for affected populations.
The situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has been exacerbated by the resurgence of M23 rebel activities, notably backed by Rwandan forces. The UN’s ability to maintain peace has been compromised following the withdrawal of peacekeepers from South Kivu, intensifying conflict dynamics in the region and leading to significant civilian suffering. The continued engagement in diplomatic processes is vital to achieving stability and protecting human rights amidst this unrest.
In conclusion, the renewed offensive by M23 rebels poses significant humanitarian challenges, with thousands displaced and lives lost. The UN Secretary-General’s call for an immediate ceasefire, respect for sovereignty, and support for international humanitarian law underlines the urgent need for a negotiated resolution. Continued engagement in the Luanda peace process remains crucial for de-escalating tensions and addressing the ongoing conflicts in the region.
Original Source: news.un.org
