Africa security correspondent, BBC News
Protesters in Kinshasa burn portraits of Rwanda’s president
Protesters in Kinshasa, the capital of Democratic Republic of Congo, have been burning portraits of Rwanda’s president and tearing up Rwandan flags as M23 rebels have taken control of most the eastern city of Goma.
Their fury is focused on Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who they accuse of backing the rebels – an accusation long made by the UN.
A group of UN experts maintains the Rwandan army is in “de facto control of M23 operations”, detailing how M23 recruits are trained under Rwandan supervision and supported by high-tech Rwandan weaponry.
Goma, which lies at the foot of a volcano near Lake Kivu, sits on the border with Rwanda. It is the capital of mineral-rich North Kivu province – an important trading and humanitarian hub.
Fighting erupted in Goma, with the M23 appearing to have captured most, if not all, of the city. The exact circumstances are unclear as communications have been cut off.
Rwandan troops allegedly supporting M23 in Goma
UN peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix stated that there are Rwandan troops in Goma supporting the M23 rebels, though the exact numbers are uncertain.
President Kagame has repeatedly denied involvement in supporting the M23 rebels, but evidence suggests otherwise as accusations continue to grow.
Rwanda has expressed concerns over the conflict near its border and denies any misguided statements about its involvement.
Conflict rooted in historical tensions
The conflict in DR Congo traces back to the Rwandan genocide in 1994, as Hutu militia fled to what is now DR Congo, forming rebel groups.
Kagame views these groups as an existential threat, leading to repeated invasions of DR Congo to stop cross-border attacks.
The emergence of the M23 rebel group in 2021 has intensified tensions, with Rwanda’s support for the group coming under scrutiny.
M23’s advanced operations and Rwandan support
The M23 rebel group, fighting for the Tutsi community, has demonstrated sophisticated operations and advanced weaponry not seen in other armed groups.
Rwandan involvement, including troops on the ground and training support, has been documented by UN experts.
Recent accusations also point to Uganda’s assistance to the M23, further complicating the conflict.
Rwanda’s denial and international response
President Kagame dismisses UN reports and accuses them of ignoring the atrocities committed in DR Congo by focusing on the M23.
Efforts to mediate the conflict are ongoing, with the East African Community involved in diplomatic talks.
Rwanda’s focus on the FDLR rebel group as the primary threat highlights its security concerns and historical context.
Overall, the conflict in DR Congo involving the M23 and Rwandan support presents a complex scenario with historical and geopolitical implications.