M23 Rebels Declare Unilateral Ceasefire Amid Humanitarian Crisis in Eastern DRC




In a significant development, the M23 rebel group, reportedly backed by Rwanda, has announced a unilateral ceasefire in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), effective from Tuesday. The rebels, who recently seized the strategic city of Goma, cited humanitarian reasons for their decision, aiming to facilitate the delivery of essential aid to displaced populations. 

The ceasefire comes in the wake of intense clashes between M23 fighters and Congolese government forces, which have resulted in at least 900 fatalities and nearly 3,000 injuries over the past week. The violence has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation, with reports of overflowing morgues and a pressing need to prevent the spread of diseases such as cholera and measles. 

Goma, a city of approximately two million residents and rich in mineral resources, has been at the epicenter of the conflict. The recent offensive by M23 has led to widespread displacement, with nearly 700,000 people forced to flee their homes. Both the rebel group and the Congolese army have faced accusations of human rights abuses during this period. 

International actors have expressed deep concern over the escalating crisis. The foreign ministers of the G7 nations have called for a return to negotiations and the establishment of secure corridors to ensure the safe delivery of humanitarian aid. Additionally, a joint summit involving the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the East African Community (EAC) is scheduled to take place in Dar es Salaam, with the participation of the presidents of the DRC and Rwanda, to address the ongoing conflict. 

Despite the ceasefire declaration, skepticism remains regarding the rebels' intentions. Some analysts suggest that the move may be a strategic maneuver by M23 to regroup and consolidate their positions. The situation remains fluid, and the international community continues to monitor developments closely. 


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