The U.N. human rights chief has accused Rwanda-backed M23 rebels of committing atrocities in eastern Congo, including child killings and attacks on hospitals. Following the seizure of Bukavu and Goma, thousands have been killed and displaced. The UK foreign office has condemned Rwanda’s actions and called for troop withdrawal, while Uganda has deployed forces to assist the Congolese army.
The U.N. human rights chief, Volker Türk, has condemned Rwanda-backed M23 rebels for atrocities committed in eastern Congo, including the killing of children and attacks on hospitals. His remarks followed the rebels’ seizure of Bukavu, a major city, where cases of summary executions were reportedly confirmed. This situation is exacerbated by allegations of child recruitment by both the M23 and Congolese government forces amidst ongoing violence in the region.
The M23 rebels captured Bukavu after overtaking Goma the previous month, resulting in significant casualties, with reported deaths exceeding 3,000 and many more displaced from their homes. The group, supported by around 4,000 Rwandan troops, aims to assert control over the area, which is rich in valuable minerals. Rwanda claims to intervene to protect Tutsis and those of Rwandan descent from discrimination but faces criticism for its involvement.
The UK Foreign Office has voiced its disapproval of Rwanda’s actions, calling for the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan forces from Congolese territory. The ongoing conflict has displaced over 6 million individuals, resulting in a significant humanitarian crisis. In response, the newly appointed governor of North Kivu announced the reopening of a ferry route to connect Goma and Bukavu, the only safe travel option available between the cities.
In tandem with these developments, Ugandan troops have entered the city of Bunia in northeastern Congo, collaborating with the Congolese army to combat ethnic violence. Uganda’s military involvement has occurred in agreement with the central government in Kinshasa, highlighting the complex dynamics of regional intervention in the Congolese conflict.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, exacerbated by the involvement of Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, has resulted in grave violations of human rights, including the killing of children and displacement of millions. The international community, particularly the UK, has condemned these actions and called for an immediate withdrawal of foreign troops. The humanitarian crisis continues to escalate as efforts to restore peace and order are complicated by regional geopolitical interests, with Uganda also entering the fray to support Congolese forces.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
