The African Union (AU) has demanded the March 23 Movement (M23) and other armed groups to withdraw from the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Peace and Security Council of the AU commission also called for an “immediate and unconditional” ceasefire in the eastern DRC.
“The council unequivocally condemns the activities of the M23 and its supporters, Allied Democratic Forces, Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda, and other armed groups, “ it said.
Expressing its “grave concern” over the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in the eastern DRC, the council said the worsening crisis is urging collective action in the spirit of “African solutions to African problems.”
Noting its total respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC, the council urged unhindered and safe humanitarian access, protection of civilians, and restoration of essential utilities in the city of Goma and other affected areas. The council also called for the re-opening of Goma International Airport.
Highlighting that there is no military solution to the conflict, the council called upon the related parties to prioritise diplomatic and political engagements.
It further called for the immediate resumption of negotiations with all state and non-state parties as well as military and non-military factions under the frameworks of the Luanda and Nairobi Processes.
MG/as/APA