Rwanda-Backed Rebels Assure Goma Residents of Safety Amid Ongoing Conflict

Rwanda-backed M23 rebels assure safety for residents of Goma following their capture of the city, promising stability and a return to normal life. They face skepticism from local citizens and international observers regarding their claims. Meanwhile, Malawi’s President has announced preparations for troop withdrawal as part of the peace process.

Rebels backed by Rwanda have assured residents of Goma, a city in eastern Congo they captured recently, of their safety and stability. During a rally at the city stadium, the M23 rebel group emphasized their commitment to maintaining security under their regime. M23’s political leader, Corneille Nangaa, declared Goma “liberated and sanitized” and urged residents to return to a sense of normalcy, suggesting that schools would reopen and displaced individuals could go back home.

The M23 rebels are supported by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops and are currently one of the most powerful among the numerous armed factions active in eastern Congo. Unlike their temporary hold over Goma in 2012, the M23 now seeks to establish political control and governance. Recently, they declared a unilateral ceasefire; however, they continue to expand their territory, having seized a strategically significant town in the mineral-rich area.

Concerns regarding the humanitarian situation persist as the United Nations and various aid organizations have reported ongoing violence in the region, severely affecting displaced populations. One Goma resident, Emmanuel Kakule, expressed his skepticism regarding the rebels’ assurances, stating, “I do not know if I am convinced… We are still afraid.” Malawi’s President Lazarus Chakwera announced plans for his country’s peacekeepers in eastern Congo to withdraw, supporting the rebels’ ceasefire declaration while emphasizing the need for negotiations and stable peace.

Despite the M23’s claims of safety and governance, the international community remains apprehensive, noting that the humanitarian crisis continues to escalate. Residents of Goma are advised to remain cautious amid this tumultuous political climate.

The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo has led to the rise of numerous armed groups, including the M23, which has received support from Rwanda. The recent capture of Goma marked a significant change in control over this critical city, which has historically served as a humanitarian hub amidst ongoing regional violence. As international scrutiny increases, the situations concerning safety, governance, and humanitarian welfare remain central to understanding the complexities of the Congolese crisis.

In summary, the M23 rebel group has taken control of Goma, assuring residents of safety and a return to normalcy, despite ongoing international scrutiny. The rebellion’s military support from Rwanda reinforces their position, though concerns remain regarding the humanitarian implications of their takeover. The international community continues to watch the situation closely as preparations for military withdrawals from peacekeeping forces are underway.

Original Source: apnews.com