In the heart of Congo’s capital, Kinshasa, protests erupted against the advance of M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, into the east of the country. Demonstrators targeted several foreign embassies, including those of Rwanda, France, and Belgium, expressing frustration over the situation. The protests quickly turned chaotic as police deployed teargas to control the crowds, but not before parts of some embassy buildings were damaged.
The unrest follows significant advancements by the M23 rebels in the conflict-affected eastern region, particularly in Goma, a city of strategic importantance. This escalation marks a severe point in the decades-long conflict involving over 100 armed factions vying for control over the mineral-rich territories.
Demonstrators called for global intervention to influence Rwanda's role in supporting the rebels. Timothée Tshishimbi, a protestor, expressed his anger over international inactivity, urging, They must tell Rwanda to stop this adventure.”
Overnight, the sounds of gunfire and explosions echoed through Goma, a city of over two million people. The rebel forces initially claimed to have seized control of the city after Goma’s airport ceased operations amid heightened tensions.
Goma, a crucial trading hub and a haven for refugees fleeing ongoing conflict, has experienced tumultuous times, previously falling into rebel hands in 2012 before liberation through international intervention. Recently resurfacing in 2021, the M23 rebels have seen heightened backing reportedly from Rwanda, an allegation Kigali refutes.
The extent of rebel control in Goma remains uncertain as residents, like Sam Luwawa, describe hearing bomb explosions and crackling bullets while the entire city's control remains disputed.
Adding to the crisis, three South African peacekeepers, part of the United Nations peacekeeping mission, died from mortar shell attacks aimed at the Goma airport. This violent clash adds to the death toll involving 17 peacekeepers and foreign soldiers, further escalating the dire situation on the ground.
Bruno Lemarquis, humanitarian coordinator for the U.N. in Congo, emphasized the severity of the crisis in Goma. He reported hundreds of thousands fleeing amidst violence, with critical infrastructure like roads and the city airport becoming inaccessible for emergency evacuations.
Humanitarian efforts face immense challenges as essential resources like power and water are disrupted within the city. Aid groups find themselves unable to deliver food and necessities to displaced populations, exacerbating the humanitarian plight.
International entities, including the United Nations and various governments, have denounced the aggression of Rwanda-backed rebels. The U.S., along with countries like France and the UK, publicly condemned Rwanda, accusing it of undermining past peace accords. Meanwhile, Rwanda blames Congo for allegedly inciting the current violence with a perceived failure to uphold previous agreements.
Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State, reached out to allay tensions, urging a resumption of peace talks between the conflicting nations. Inside Congo, the mounting pressure is palpable as calls for action intensify. Opposition leader Martin Fayulu criticized President Félix Tshisekedi, calling for mass protests against Rwanda while demanding stronger international support for Congo.
This dire situation continues to unfold, challenging the diplomatic stances worldwide as both local and international communities wait for resolutions to what represents one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally.
