In a recent development, M23 has declared a ceasefire “for humanitarian reasons,” stating that they have no intention of seizing control of Bukavu, but are prepared to defend their current positions. However, DRC Minister Muyaya dismissed the ceasefire announcement as a lie and affirmed that the government will launch a full-scale offensive to reclaim M23-held territories.
Minister Muyaya also refuted allegations that the Congolese army uses Kavumu airport in South Kivu to launch aerial attacks on M23-controlled territories.
Despite FARDC’s offensive attacks, M23 continues to hold Nyabibwe, located just 35 kilometers from Kavumu. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the evacuation of diplomats based in South Kivu through Rwanda as concerns escalate over potential M23 attacks on Bakavu, the capital of South Kivu.
International response and humanitarian concerns
The representative of China to the UN has called for a swift and robust response from the Security Council, expressing support for a potential resolution involving a ceasefire, M23 withdrawal, and peace dialogue between Rwanda and DRC.
Meanwhile, internally displaced persons (IDPs) around Goma have begun returning home, facilitated by M23. Kanyaruchinya camp, in particular, has seen a significant decrease in its population. Humanitarian organizations allege that people were forced to leave the camp.
However, M23 refutes these claims, stating that the humanitarian organizations have exploited the IDPs as “cash cows” for financial gain and that it is now safe for them to return home due to the restored peace and security in the region.
The Humanitarian Coordinator in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Bruno Lemarquis, has launched an urgent appeal for the reopening of Goma airport. The airport was damaged during fighting between the M23 and the DRC armed forces (FARDC), SADC, mercenaries and the FDLR, a Kinshasa-backed group.
“Goma airport is a lifeline. Without it, the evacuation of the seriously injured, the delivery of medical supplies, and the reception of humanitarian reinforcements are paralyzed,” said Lemarquis.
Currently, SADC forces, including SANDF and FARDC heavy and long-range artillery, are still present at the airport, hindering its immediate reopening.
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Presidents Kagame, Tshisekedi to attend EAC-SADC joint meeting in Tanzania
Presidents Paul Kagame of Rwanda and Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo have both confirmed their attendance at the upcoming East African Community-Southern African Development Community (EAC-SADC) joint meeting in Tanzania.
During a diplomatic briefing today, Rwandan Minister of Foreign Affairs Olivier Nduhungire expressed Rwanda’s hope for frank discussions and a lasting solution to the regional crisis at the summit.
Minister Nduhungire emphasized Rwanda’s requirements for peace, including the neutralization of the FDLR, the withdrawal of foreign forces invited by Kinshasa, direct talks between the DRC government and the M23, and long-term security guarantees at the border.
The Minister stated that fulfilling these requirements would allow Rwanda to lift its defensive measures and usher in a new era of regional integration and economic prosperity.
Social media restrictions
Access to social media networks has been limited in DRC since Saturday, with the government citing technical issues. However, activist group La Lucha has accused the Tshisekedi government of suppressing dissent.
