The M23 rebel group’s recent unilateral ceasefire is labeled a “ploy” by DRC government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya following a new offensive against Congolese forces. With numerous ceasefires historically collapsing, the DRC’s Foreign Minister criticizes the lack of international action. The ICC is monitoring the escalating crisis, as a crucial summit involving regional leaders is on the horizon.
Following an attack on the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) city of Goma last week, the M23 rebel group declared a humanitarian ceasefire that commenced on Tuesday. However, Congolese government spokesman Patrick Muyaya condemned this ceasefire as a mere “ploy” after the M23 and Rwandan forces initiated a new assault early Wednesday, demonstrating the ceasefire’s insincerity.
Sources reported renewed fighting at dawn between the M23 rebels, who are backed by Rwanda, and Congolese armed forces, just after the unilaterally declared ceasefire was supposed to take effect. This development follows numerous previously declared ceasefires and truces over the last three years, all of which have been systematically violated.
DCR Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner criticized the international community for its inaction regarding the escalating conflict in eastern DRC. “We see a lot of declarations but we do not see actions,” she stated following a meeting with her Belgian counterpart in Brussels. In light of these developments, a joint extraordinary summit involving DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame is scheduled for Saturday in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has announced that its prosecutors are closely monitoring the escalating violence in eastern DRC, especially around the provincial capital of North Kivu, Goma. According to an ICC statement, they are observing the situation attentively.
The ongoing conflict involving the M23 rebel group and the Congolese government has been characterized by repeated ceasefires that are frequently broken. The M23, reportedly supported by Rwanda, has adopted violent tactics and aggressive maneuvers in the eastern DRC, leading to severe humanitarian crises and international concern. The involvement of the ICC and meetings among regional leaders signal a potential shift in response to the unrest. As tensions persist, the response from international entities remains critical in addressing the underlying issues contributing to the conflict. The situation demands not only awareness but also decisive multinational action to prevent further escalation.
In summary, the unilateral ceasefire declared by M23 rebels has been dismissed by the DRC government as a tactical deception, as evidenced by recent aggressive actions. Numerous ceasefires have failed in the past, drawing international scrutiny and calls for effective intervention. Heightened military actions have brought critical attention to the conflict, prompting questions about the international community’s role and the ongoing humanitarian situation in the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
