European Official Addresses Ongoing Violence in Eastern DR Congo
The humanitarian crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains a pressing concern as various armed groups and the military continue to grapple with a complex situation following the withdrawal of AFC/M23 forces in mid-January. Hadja Lahbib, the European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness, and Crisis Management, remarked on the challenges associated with identifying the perpetrators behind recent abuses in Uvira, South Kivu.
Speaking in Kigali after meeting with Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Lahbib outlined the difficulties in pinpointing responsibility for violence in a region complicated by the presence of numerous militant groups. “There are approximately 120 armed factions operating in this area,” she stated, emphasizing the confusion surrounding the recent chaos. Her comments followed reports of looting and violence against Banyamulenge civilians after the AFC/M23’s withdrawal on January 17.
Complex Dynamics Amid Chaos
Local populations as well as the AFC/M23 have accused Wazalendo militias, associated with the Congolese army, of engaging in abuse against the Banyamulenge community during this upheaval. Lahbib conveyed that the withdrawal of AFC/M23 left a power vacuum that was swiftly exploited by these militias, sparking widespread fear and displacement.
“Based on refugee testimonies, the M23’s action in Uvira directly led to their fleeing,” Lahbib noted, illustrating the perilous situation for many residents. Meanwhile, Olivier Nduhungirehe, Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, condemned the violence, asserting that the identity of the attackers was well known.
Nduhungirehe remarked, “It was not the Congolese army that moved in first, but the Wazalendo, who have been known to target the Banyamulenge.” He criticized the absence of peacekeeping forces, particularly the UN’s MONUSCO, which had been previously requested to stabilize the region.
Growing Humanitarian Needs
The humanitarian implications are severe, with Lahbib highlighting that the crisis has roots in systemic issues exacerbated by divisive rhetoric. “This region is historically plagued by genocide ideology and hate speech,” she stated, referencing the broader context of ethnic tensions in eastern DRC.
Amid these conflicts, the situation has left many Banyamulenge families vulnerable, with reports of attacks on their homes and places of worship. Nduhungirehe stressed the necessity for regional leaders to address these complex dynamics, pointing to the increasingly hostile environment faced by Tutsi communities in DRC.
Calls for International Attention
In light of the escalating crisis, Lahbib urged for heightened international engagement. “It is crucial for the global community to monitor this unfolding situation closely,” she remarked, as her visit to Kigali was part of a broader regional tour that included discussions with DRC’s President Felix Tshisekedi.
The urgency of the humanitarian situation has not gone unnoticed. Leaders from various sectors are rallying for intervention, with local advocacy groups seeking condemnation of violence towards the Banyamulenge.
Continuing Military Engagement
Despite calls for a ceasefire, Nduhungirehe highlighted ongoing military actions, including airstrikes and drone attacks by the Congolese government coalition against civilians. “Such actions are not only in violation of the ceasefire agreement but further complicate the already delicate situation on the ground,” he affirmed.
As Lahbib prepares to meet with leaders of the AFC/M23 in Goma, stakeholders are hopeful that sustained dialogue can lead to a reduction in violence and an improved humanitarian response. The ongoing crisis in eastern DRC remains a challenge not only for the region but for international peace and security.
— Reported by Nexio News
