The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo has issued a strong condemnation of Rwanda’s military and its alleged support of the M23 rebel group, accusing them of carrying out mass killings and the abduction of thousands of civilians in the conflict-ridden eastern region of the country.
In an official statement released this week, Congolese authorities claimed that recent military operations involving Rwandan troops and M23 fighters have led to the deaths of dozens of civilians and the forced abduction of thousands more, including women and children. The violence is said to have intensified in North Kivu province, where M23 has regained strength over the past two years.
“These atrocities amount to serious violations of international humanitarian law,” said Congo government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya. “We call on the international community to take urgent action to stop Rwanda’s continued interference and support for armed rebellion on Congolese soil.”
The allegations mark another escalation in tensions between the two neighboring countries. Rwanda has consistently denied any involvement with the M23 rebel movement, despite mounting evidence from UN reports and international observers indicating logistical and military support.
The Congolese government accuses Rwanda of exploiting the region’s instability to control mineral-rich areas and disrupt peace efforts. In addition to killings and abductions, officials say that entire villages have been emptied, with survivors fleeing to displacement camps that are now overwhelmed and under-resourced.
UN officials have echoed concerns about the humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo, which has seen a dramatic rise in violence over the past year. According to the United Nations, more than 7 million people are currently displaced across the country, with hundreds of thousands newly uprooted by fighting in North Kivu alone.
In response to the latest allegations, international human rights organizations have called for an independent investigation into Rwanda’s role in the conflict and urged all parties to respect international law and the rights of civilians.
The African Union and regional leaders have been working to mediate peace talks between Congo and Rwanda, but progress has been slow. The renewed accusations threaten to derail these fragile diplomatic efforts, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
As pressure mounts on Rwanda to account for its alleged actions, Congolese leaders are appealing for international sanctions and greater military support to protect civilians and restore stability in the east.
The violence in eastern Congo — fueled by decades of armed conflict, ethnic tensions, and competition over natural resources — remains one of the world’s most neglected humanitarian emergencies. The latest reports of killings and mass abductions only underscore the urgency of finding a lasting resolution.
Source : Swifteradio.com
