Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo – In a dramatic turn of events in the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, the M23 rebel group, supported by Rwandan forces, captured the key city of Goma on Sunday. The takeover has plunged the region into a large-scale humanitarian crisis, with thousands displaced, essential services disrupted and a massive prison break reported at Munzenze.
The fall of Goma is a huge victory for M23, an umbrella rebel group led by Tutsi, whose forces have been inching their ways in recent months. The group has been accused of receiving significant support from Rwanda – including military equipment and personnel – despite being defeated by Congolese forces in 2013.
The government in Congo has, however, denied all these accusations and pointed accusing fingers back at Rwanda, claiming the resurgence of M23 was internally caused and accused Rwanda of direct military
intervention. Yet, several reports and eyewitness accounts have indicated that Rwandan forces have indeed been actively involved in this M23 offensive and providing crucial support in artillery and even air power.
The UN Security Council strongly condemned the advance of M23 and requested an immediate ceasefire. It
called in a statement for the withdrawal of all foreign forces from Congolese territory and expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation with further escalation.
The humanitarian consequences are grim, as the takeover by M23 has left thousands of civilians on the run, seeking shelter either in neighboring areas or across the border into Rwanda. The takeover disrupted hospitals,
schools, and other essential services; and the breakout of prisoners from Munzenze Prison raised the security threat of widespread looting and violence.
The international community is closely seizing the situation, urging all parties to de-escalate and talk peaceably.
However, prospects are not so shiny for a quick conflict resolution as tension between the DRC and Rwanda threatens to spiral further out of control.
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