Burundi Troop Deployment in Eastern DRC Amidst Rising Conflict and Aid Suspension
Burundi has deployed troops in eastern DRC amidst escalating conflict with M23 fighters, supported by Rwanda. The UK has suspended bilateral aid to Rwanda due to this offensive. Diplomatic efforts involving former African leaders are underway to address the crisis while thousands are reported killed since January.
Burundian troops are actively deploying in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to support Kinshasa, amid the backdrop of the United Kingdom suspending most direct bilateral aid to Rwanda. This decision stems from a recent offensive by M23 fighters, who are purportedly being aided by Rwandan military personnel. The current conflict represents a troubling surge in violence in a region affected by nearly three decades of unrest, which has resulted in extensive loss of life.
M23 forces have recently captured significant urban centers, including the South Kivu provincial capital of Bukavu and Goma, the main city in the DRC’s eastern region. The group’s rapid advancement has come without substantial resistance from the DRC army, which has suffered further turmoil as soldiers fled the frontline, leading to increased civilian fears regarding the ongoing violence.
In response to the escalating threat, Burundian troops are moving northward to prevent further incursions by M23 fighters, particularly toward the town of Uvira. Reports indicate that heavily armed Burundian soldiers have been seen advancing toward Luvungi, with local militia groups aligning themselves with these forces to combat the M23 threat. The current tensions have emptied towns such as Kamanyola, with residents fleeing in anticipation of renewed clashes.
Furthermore, South African troops injured during the conflict have returned home for medical treatment. These soldiers were deployed as part of an initiative by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) aimed at restoring stability in the eastern DRC.
On a diplomatic front, former African leaders have been appointed to facilitate peace efforts in the region, coinciding with the arrival of International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor Karim Khan to investigate the recent violence. Khan has expressed profound concern over the situation in eastern Congo and emphasized the imperative for accountability among armed factions.
The EAC and SADC have united to call for an immediate ceasefire and urgent humanitarian assistance amidst the ongoing turmoil. A ministerial meeting is set for Friday to delineate the specifics of this ceasefire initiative. DRC Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka reported alarming casualty figures, suggesting thousands of lives have been lost since January alone, exacerbating an already grave humanitarian crisis.
In conclusion, the situation in eastern DRC remains dire, marked by increasing military movements and violence. The involvement of Burundian troops and the suspension of UK aid to Rwanda highlight the complex geopolitical tensions prevalent in the region. With various global and regional efforts underway, the focus is on facilitating a ceasefire and addressing the humanitarian needs of the affected populations to restore stability.
Original Source: www.communitynewspapergroup.com
