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EAC leaders call for truce in Congo

By William Madouk

South Sudan President Salva Kiir Mayardit joins East African leaders in calling for a ceasefire among fighting forces in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

This call follows an intensification of the M23 rebellion, which has led to the rebels gaining control of more territory this month.

During the 24th extraordinary summit chaired by EAC Chairperson President William Ruto, the regional bloc called for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.

The communiqué stated, “the summit called on all parties to the conflict in Eastern DRC to cease hostilities and observe an immediate and unconditional ceasefire while facilitating humanitarian access to the affected population.”

EAC leaders reiterated the importance of a peaceful resolution to the conflict, emphasizing that the DRC government should engage directly with the rebel groups to initiate peace talks.

The statement urged the DRC government to “strongly engage with all stakeholders, including the M23 and other armed groups that have grievances.”

The summit also expressed concern regarding the expanding crisis, highlighting the need to protect diplomatic missions, lives, and property.

“The summit expressed concern about the increasing attacks on diplomatic missions, embassies, and staff based in Kinshasa,” it read, urging the DRC government to safeguard these entities.

President William Ruto conveyed condolences to the families affected by recent developments and wished for a swift recovery for those injured.

The summit acknowledged the involvement of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in eastern DRC, indicating they would consult the SADC chairperson regarding its mandate and possible next steps.

On Sunday, Congolese rebels announced they had captured Goma, the largest city in eastern DRC, following a rapid advance that has forced thousands to flee and raised concerns about a potential regional war.

“We have taken Goma and have ordered soldiers to surrender by 3:00 a.m. local time (0100 GMT),” stated Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, which includes the M23.

The Rwanda-backed M23 rebels have made significant territorial gains in the conflict-ridden eastern DRC borderlands and have launched an assault on Goma, the capital of North Kivu province.

Meanwhile, the United States, France, and Britain condemned what they described as Rwanda’s support for the rebel advance, a claim Kigali has consistently denied.

 

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