Fresh fighting erupted near Goma as rebel group M23 claimed it fought off government forces. The Congolese military flatly denies attacking anywhere near the eastern city. Military spokesperson Major General Ekenge said their troops remain hundreds of kilometers away from the area in question.
M23 released a statement on April 12, saying they repelled a nighttime assault involving several armed groups. The rebels accused government troops of teaming up with FDLR militia, local fighters called Wazalendo, and regional peacekeepers. They said these attacks threatened civilian safety and violated peace agreements.
The Congolese army dismissed these claims as complete fabrications meant to justify violence against civilians. General Ekenge called it a trick to distract from peace talks currently underway. He stressed that the military remains committed to international humanitarian laws throughout the conflict zone.
The disputed events highlight ongoing tensions in eastern Congo, where M23 controls large areas despite diplomatic efforts. The government continues to accuse neighboring Rwanda of supporting the rebels, something Rwanda always denies. Peace remains elusive as both sides trade accusations about who started the latest violence.
M23 released a statement on April 12, saying they repelled a nighttime assault involving several armed groups. The rebels accused government troops of teaming up with FDLR militia, local fighters called Wazalendo, and regional peacekeepers. They said these attacks threatened civilian safety and violated peace agreements.
The Congolese army dismissed these claims as complete fabrications meant to justify violence against civilians. General Ekenge called it a trick to distract from peace talks currently underway. He stressed that the military remains committed to international humanitarian laws throughout the conflict zone.
The disputed events highlight ongoing tensions in eastern Congo, where M23 controls large areas despite diplomatic efforts. The government continues to accuse neighboring Rwanda of supporting the rebels, something Rwanda always denies. Peace remains elusive as both sides trade accusations about who started the latest violence.
