GOMA, Congo — In a dramatic escalation of conflict, rebels supported by Rwanda have announced their intention to extend their campaign beyond the eastern city of Goma, aiming for Congo’s capital, Kinshasa. President Félix Tshisekedi has responded with a call for expansive military mobilization to counter the uprising, while his defense minister has dismissed any suggestions of negotiations with the insurgents.
Defense Minister Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita made it clear in a video message that any plans for dialogue with the rebels would be “completely burned immediately.” He expressed a determination to remain and fight for Congo, stating, “If we do not stay alive here, let’s stay dead here.” His position underscores the urgent and combative stance taken by the Congolese government as they seek to maintain control over the city and surrounding territories.
During a briefing, leaders of the M23 rebel group declared their goal of seizing political control, with Corneille Nangaa, a leading figure, openly stating, “We want to go to Kinshasa, take power and lead the country.” Although they expressed a willingness for discussions with the Congolese government, their true ambitions appear to center on gaining authority rather than resolving the conflict peacefully.
Meanwhile, Rwandan President Paul Kagame has been engaging with Angola’s President Joao Lourenco, who is acting as a mediator. Both leaders have committed to working collaboratively with other nations to address the ongoing violence and instability. The U.S. government has also weighed in, with President Donald Trump labeling the conflict as a “very serious problem” while a U.N. spokesman acknowledged concerns over reports of Rwandan forces crossing into Congo amidst the chaos.
The M23 rebels, reportedly bolstered by around 4,000 Rwandan troops— a significant increase from the 2012 conflict — are just one of many armed groups fighting for dominance in Congo’s fertile eastern regions, which are rich in valuable minerals. President Tshisekedi has issued a rallying call to the youth, urging them to join the military amid mounting pressures for negotiations with the rebels from regional partners. Kagame has warned there would be a steadfast reaction to any confrontations, especially with South Africa, which has voiced concerns about the ramifications of hostilities for their peacekeepers in the region.
Tshisekedi’s commitment to a robust and coordinated military response was reiterated following the M23’s takeover of Goma, even as he suggested a preference for peaceful resolutions. He sought support from France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, emphasizing the need for urgent action considering the dire situation.
On the ground in Goma, the humanitarian crisis is deepening, with electricity and water supply severely disrupted. The streets are littered with the bodies of those believed to be government soldiers, alarming the seemingly devastated residents. Reports suggest that M23 rebels have taken custody of approximately 2,000 government forces, some of whom reportedly sang anti-establishment songs while being escorted away.
The United Nations has warned that vital humanitarian services are on the brink of collapse in Goma, which serves as a crucial assistance hub for millions displaced by the conflict. Meanwhile, footage has emerged showing individuals looting stores, raising concerns about a worsening cycle of violence against a backdrop of extreme desperation.
As the rebels continue to consolidate their power, fear permeates the regional capital, Bukavu. Local leaders have reported loud gunfire and explosions within surrounding areas, giving rise to panic among residents. Witnesses noted a disarrayed Congolese military, as many personnel were seen abandoning their posts and changing into civilian attire, attempting to escape the advancing rebels.
Efforts for peace are being echoed by a summit of the East African regional bloc, which has called for an unconditional ceasefire and encouraged negotiations with the M23. President Tshisekedi’s absence from the virtual summit has drawn criticism, highlighting a fracture in governance amid external pressures to de-escalate tensions.
This ongoing conflict has roots extending back decades, including the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide, with the M23 claiming to protect the rights of ethnic Tutsis in Congo. Discontent over perceived neglect by the Congolese central government and unmet demands for peace have emboldened the group, pointing to a broader failure of regional mediation efforts, as tensions escalate between Rwanda and South Africa.
The situation remains fluid and highly precarious, signaling potential for further instability in the region as both sides brace for impending confrontations.
