Guterres Voices Alarm over M23 Rebel Offensive in DR Congo, ‘Devastating Toll’ on Civilians
2025-01-23 12:00
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has expressed deep concern over the recent offensive by the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), which he said has taken a “devastating toll” on civilians.
In a statement issued by his Spokesperson, Guterres condemned the “indiscriminate attacks” by the M23 against civilians, which have resulted in the killing of dozens of people, including women and children. He also expressed concern over the displacement of thousands of people due to the violence.
The M23 rebel group has been active in eastern DR Congo for several years. It briefly captured the provincial capital of Goma in 2012 but was defeated by a joint operation by the Congolese army and a UN peacekeeping force.
In recent months, the M23 has resumed its operations, capturing several towns and villages in North Kivu province. The group has been accused of committing serious human rights abuses, including summary executions, rape, and torture.
Guterres called on the M23 to immediately cease all hostilities and withdraw from the areas it has recently captured. He also urged the DR Congo government to take all necessary measures to protect civilians and restore stability in the region.
The UN Secretary-General also expressed concern over the wider security situation in eastern DR Congo, which has been plagued by violence and instability for decades. He called on all parties to the conflict to engage in dialogue and find a peaceful solution to the crisis.
The M23 rebel offensive has further destabilized an already volatile region. The DR Congo has been struggling with conflict and violence for decades, and the recent resurgence of the M23 has raised fears that the country could slide back into war.
The UN has been playing a key role in supporting peace efforts in the DR Congo. The UN peacekeeping mission in the country, known as MONUSCO, has been tasked with protecting civilians and supporting the government in its efforts to restore stability.
However, MONUSCO has been criticized for its failure to prevent violence and protect civilians in the past. The mission has also been accused of human rights abuses, including the sexual exploitation of women and children.
The M23 rebel offensive is a major challenge for the DR Congo and the UN. The conflict is likely to continue to have a devastating impact on civilians in the region, and it could further destabilize the country.
Guterres voices alarm over M23 rebel offensive in DR Congo, ‘devastating toll’ on civilians
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