Goma Under Siege: Residents Face Dire Consequences Amid Rebel Advances
The city of Goma is besieged by M23 rebels, causing widespread fear and displacement among residents. The long-standing conflict in eastern Congo has escalated with reports of increased violence. Displaced individuals seek refuge in local hospitals as they confront dire humanitarian conditions. Criticism of the United Nations peacekeeping force, MONUSCO, has surfaced as local residents express feelings of abandonment amid the crisis.
The city of Goma finds itself besieged by M23 rebels, who are supported by Rwanda, intensifying the crisis in eastern Congo. With bombs falling in the surrounding regions, many residents have fled to their city, caught in a perilous situation. On the morning of Monday, M23 declared the capture of Goma, prompting fear among the citizens, some of whom had already been displaced by ongoing conflicts.
The long-standing conflict in eastern Congo, characterized by Rwandan-backed rebels battling against Congolese armed forces and local groups known as Wazalendo, has evolved into what some label as Africa’s World War. On Monday, videos depicting M23’s presence in Goma circulated among terrified local residents. While some Congolese officers fled their posts, sporadic gunfire indicated a struggle as other soldiers remained to defend.
Many hospitals in Goma experienced a surge in patients seeking medical care due to the conflict. Employees had to erect tents in hospital yards to accommodate the influx, as injured individuals continued to arrive. One woman sustained severe injuries from a bomb explosion near an army checkpoint, leaving her uncertain of her and her family’s future, despite finding shelter in a hospital.
Asifiwe Iragi Rugesha, with her six children in tow, navigated through crowds of other displaced individuals fleeing bombings in Kibati. With the M23 advance jeopardizing their safety, Ms. Rugesha noted the detrimental situation, stating, “If M23 comes to Goma, we will die.” A further blow came with the airport’s closure on Sunday, leaving many stranded.
Discontent directed toward the United Nations peacekeeping force, known as MONUSCO, has gained momentum among residents of Goma. Local individuals expressed feelings of betrayal, questioning the adequacy of the international response to their plight. One displaced woman, overwhelmed by her circumstances, expressed her desperation, stating, “I do not know where to go.”
The wounded lay in darkness within hospital beds, as Goma faced power and water supply interruptions amidst escalating unrest. Gunshots resonated through the city as rebel forces tightened their grip, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian crisis for those displaced from regions like Saké.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo involves a complex interplay between various armed groups, including M23, which is reportedly backed by Rwanda. This conflict has resulted in widespread displacement, with civilians caught in the crossfire and humanitarian conditions deteriorating rapidly. The situation has invoked comparisons to a larger-scale war due to its prolonged nature and the involvement of multiple factions. The presence of MONUSCO, the U.N. peacekeeping force, has drawn criticism from residents who feel abandoned amidst the turmoil.
In conclusion, the humanitarian crisis in Goma continues to escalate as M23 rebels advance, leading to widespread displacements and severe challenges for civilians seeking refuge. The reactions of local citizens highlighted their fears and frustrations, particularly toward international peacekeeping efforts. Without a viable resolution, the plight of those affected remains dire and their future uncertain.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
