Title: Democratic Republic of Congo calls for UN sanctions against Rwandan support for M23
Introduction :
The government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) persists in its demand for UN sanctions against Rwanda for its military and logistical support to the rebel group M23. Despite Rwandan denials, a recent report by UN experts demonstrates in detail the involvement of the neighboring country in the activities of M23. The Congolese government urges the Security Council to take concrete measures to punish those responsible and also calls for better implementation of the Luanda roadmap aimed at bringing peace to eastern DRC.
Development :
The UN experts’ final report, published on June 13, provides solid evidence of Rwanda’s support for the M23. This evidence includes testimonies, photos and documents that demonstrate the involvement of senior Rwandan army officers in the operations of the rebel group. Experts have also identified the names of Rwandan officials, including General James Kabarebe, former Congolese army chief of staff and defense and security adviser to President Paul Kagame.
Faced with these revelations, the Congolese government is calling for “severe and exemplary” sanctions against Rwandan officers and leaders, as well as the M23. He insists on the importance of bringing to justice those who have committed human rights violations and abuses in the DRC. The government also invites the Security Council to actively contribute to the implementation of the Luanda roadmap, which aims to bring peace to eastern DRC.
At the same time, the Congolese government welcomes the decision of the UK Court of Appeal to consider Rwanda as an unsafe country for the sending of asylum seekers. He criticizes the Rwandan policy of presenting itself as a country solving refugee problems, while contributing to the creation of new refugees and displaced persons through its support for the M23.
Conclusion :
The DRC continues to press the UN for sanctions against Rwanda and the M23. The UN experts’ report provides strong evidence of Rwandan involvement in the rebel group’s activities, which has caused the death of thousands of Congolese civilians and the displacement of a million people. The Congolese government is calling for targeted sanctions and urging better implementation of the Luanda roadmap to bring peace to the east of the country