Kenyan President William Ruto, the current chair of the East African Community (EAC), called for an “immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities” in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Monday. His plea follows reports from residents of Goma, who confirmed the M23 rebels’ entry into the city on Monday afternoon.
President Ruto expressed concern over the worsening situation in eastern DRC, noting that it poses a serious threat to the peoples and governments of East Africa. He highlighted the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the closure of airspace in Goma.
On the same day, the M23 issued a statement announcing the “liberation of the city of Goma.” The rebel group demanded that the Armed Forces of the DRC (FARDC) surrender their weapons to the United Nations peacekeeping mission MONUSCO and regroup at Stade de l’Unité. They also declared a suspension of lake activities “until further notice.”
In response to the crisis, President Ruto announced an extraordinary EAC summit within 48 hours to “discuss this crisis and determine the way forward.” He indicated that he had communicated with Presidents Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC and Paul Kagame of Rwanda, both of whom confirmed their attendance.
The EAC chairman underscored the necessity of dialogue, stating that “a lasting solution can only be reached through engagement, constructive dialogue, and a renewed commitment to peace.” He also emphasized the need for increased involvement from the African Union in addressing the ongoing crisis.
On Sunday, President Félix Tshisekedi convened a crisis meeting to evaluate the situation in Goma, where camps for displaced individuals had come under attack.
The meeting focused on coordinating efforts between the government and military to protect civilians while seeking international support through diplomatic channels and an intervention at the United Nations Security Council.
Tshisekedi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of civilians and safeguarding human lives amid the evolving crisis.
AC/lb/abj/APA